How dog and cat DNA tests work

by Dr. Liza Cahn

Feb 18, 2024

Updated: Feb 22, 24

Have you ever looked at your furry friend and wondered, "What breeds are you made of?" or "What secrets does your DNA hold?" You're not alone! Pet DNA testing has opened a portal into the genetics of our four-legged companions - making it easier than ever to determine breed heritage and health predispositions, among other things.

Why DNA test your pet?

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of living organisms – it is essentially the biological blueprint that makes each species unique and determines individual characteristics. DNA testing in dogs and cats involves analyzing this genetic material to gain insights into their biological makeup. But why would DNA testing be beneficial (besides the fact that it’s fun!)?:

Breed Identification: Tests such as Wisdom Panel and Embark offer a comprehensive analysis of a dog’s breed composition. Meaning, you can find out all the different breeds that make up your mixed-breed dog! Knowing the heritage of a mixed-breed dog can provide insights into breed traits and potential health concerns.
Genetic Disease Screening: DNA tests can also screen for genetic diseases, enabling pet owners and veterinarians to anticipate and manage potential health issues effectively.
Breeder-Specific Tests: Responsible breeders heavily rely on DNA testing to ensure the health and vitality of future litters. By understanding the genetic makeup of their breeding dogs and cats, they can make informed decisions to avoid passing on heritable diseases, ranging from hip dysplasia to heart disease.
Strengthen the Human-Animal Bond: DNA testing can strengthen the human-pet bond, as understanding a pet’s genetic background can deepen the emotional connection between the pet and its owner.

The science of DNA testing

DNA collection and analysis process

The journey into a pet’s genetic makeup begins with the collection of DNA, usually through a cheek swab at home or a blood sample collected by your vet. Once the sample is collected, it’s sent to a specialized laboratory equipped with advanced genetic sequencing technologies. In the lab, technicians extract the DNA and prepare it for analysis. They then use sophisticated sequencing methods to read the genetic code contained within the DNA. This code is made up of nucleotides – tiny molecules that form the building blocks of DNA. Each nucleotide sequence represents a specific genetic marker, which can be compared against extensive databases of known canine and feline genetic information.

Decoding genetic markers

Genetic markers are specific sequences of DNA that are known to be associated with particular traits or health conditions. By analyzing these markers, scientists can determine a pet’s breed composition, potential health risks, and even predict certain behavioral tendencies. Advanced computational algorithms play a crucial role in this process. They compare the pet’s genetic markers with those in the database, which contains a vast array of genetic information from different breeds and known genetic conditions. This comparison helps to identify matches and provides a detailed report on the pet’s genetic background.

Understanding breed and health information

For breed identification, specific genetic markers are linked to distinct breeds. This allows the test to determine what combination of breeds makes up a mixed-breed dog or cat. On the health front, certain markers are indicative of predispositions to diseases like hip dysplasia, heart conditions, or hereditary cancers. Knowing these risks can be vital in preemptive healthcare planning and early interventions, keeping your furry family member as healthy and happy as possible.

Limitations of DNA testing

While these DNA tests can tell you a lot, they’re not perfect. The accuracy of DNA tests can vary based on the quality of the sample collected, the specific technologies used by the testing company, and the comprehensiveness of the genetic database used for comparison. While leading DNA testing companies continuously update their databases and refine their algorithms, there’s still a margin of error in breed identification and health risk predictions. Additionally, the cost of DNA testing can be prohibitive for some pet owners, making it less accessible to everyone. It’s important for pet owners to approach DNA testing as a tool – one that offers valuable insights but that only makes up one piece of the puzzle of interpreting a pet’s breed and health.

How to DNA test your pet: popular testing kits

While there are several companies offering DNA testing, the two most well-known are Wisdom Panel (offered by The Vets) and Embark. Both offer valuable insights into your pet’s genetics. Your choice may depend on what aspects of DNA testing are most important to you – whether it’s a comprehensive health screening, breed identification, cost, or a mix of these factors.

Embark

Embark stands out for its depth of analysis, testing for over 350 breeds, 250 genetic health conditions, and 35 physical traits, making it one of the most comprehensive tests available. Its extensive database, ongoing research collaborations, and advanced genetic testing technology make Embark a top choice for pet owners seeking detailed insights into their pet’s breed composition and health risks. The interactive and user-friendly report provided by Embark, which includes a relative finder feature, further enriches the user experience by connecting pets with their genetic relatives.

Wisdom Panel

Wisdom Panel is celebrated for its accuracy in breed identification, boasting a database that includes over 365 dog breeds and 70 cat breeds. While Wisdom Panel also offers health screening, its focus is more on breed identification, with a slightly less extensive range of health conditions screened compared to Embark. This makes Wisdom Panel a cost-effective option, especially for pet owners primarily interested in understanding their pet’s breed heritage. Additionally, Wisdom Panel offers specialized tests for breeders, focusing on maintaining genetic diversity and reducing the risk of hereditary diseases in future litters.

What about cats?

Understanding a cat’s genetic makeup can be beneficial for some pet parents. It can aid in personalized care, health management, and can even deepen the bond between the cat and their owner through a greater understanding of the cat’s natural tendencies and potential health needs. DNA testing in cats is a growing field, offering insights into feline genetics that were previously inaccessible to most cat owners, however, the breed databases are not as extensive nor do most cats have purebred parents. Options for interested cat parents include Wisdom Panel and Basepaws, among others.

Interested in a DNA test for your pet? Book an at-home appointment with The Vets, and we’ll take care of everything!

Dr. Liza Cahn

Liza is a veterinarian who graduated from MSU CVM in 2013 and spent five years working in small animal practice. She loved working with dogs and cats and educating owners on all aspects of veterinary medicine, especially animal behavior and dermatology. She has since transitioned to remote work to be able to spend more time at home with her husband, two young kids, and two cats. She is thrilled to be able to combine her passions for veterinary medicine and writing. She is licensed as a veterinarian in Washington State.