what dog DNA tests tell you

Have you ever wondered about your dog’s breed? Or maybe you guessed your puppy is a Lhasa Apso and not the Shih Tzu you were told it was? Or maybe you’re concerned about genetic health conditions? Now you can get more insight into your dog’s health and family tree with DNA testing. Let’s dive into what these tests do, how they’re used, and what you should expect.

How do DNA tests work?

Our puppy Optimum Wellness Plan includes the Wisdom Panel™ Canine DNA test, performed at your local Banfield hospital. The test is simple and painless: Your veterinarian will rotate a swab inside your puppy’s mouth, along the inside of their cheek, for a minimum of 15 seconds. The swab is then sent to Wisdom Panel’s lab, and 2–3 weeks later you’ll receive your puppy’s genetic results.

What will the Wisdom Panel Canine DNA Test tell me?

Here are just a few of the exciting insights you’ll learn:

Advanced health screening for more than 200 genetic health conditions covering 16 major body systems from nose to tail
Extensive breed detection from over 250 breeds, types, and varieties—the largest of any panel available
Easy-to-understand breed percentage breakdown
Purebred ancestry going back three generations
Adult weight prediction
Potentially lifesaving MDR1 screening for drug sensitivity

Why you should consider DNA testing for your pet

While testing your pup’s DNA can be a heck of a lot of fun, it can also be very useful. Let’s say your pet’s DNA test discovered they're a breed prone to allergies. This information can help you and your veterinarian come up with a petcare plan to keep your pet healthy and avoid exposure to things they’re allergic to. Also, this is an amazing benefit that’s part of your puppy’s Optimum Wellness Plan, so make sure to take advantage of it.