Discovering Dog Dna -- The Benefits Of Mixed Breed Testing

Many people own mixed-breed dogs, which refers to a dog's complex heritage due to cross breeding. Some dog owners may simply accept their dog as a "mutt," yet understanding your dog's ancestry can have a positive impact on his health and social skills. Recent breakthroughs in veterinary research have led to dog DNA testing, which allows pet owners to discover their canine companions origins through a simple cheek swab. Below, explore the benefits of mixed breed testing.

Understand Your Dog:
Providing your dog with the proper grooming, health care and attention it needs is critical to building a strong, lasting relationship with your pet. However, knowing your dog's origins enables you to match its personality traits with those of its ancestors -- helping you understand certain behaviors that were otherwise left unexplained. Knowing that your dog is part Australian Shepherd, for example, explains its tendency to herd its owners, children or other dogs when playing outside. Each dog has unique characteristics that make them unique.

Better Health:
Knowing your dog's ancestry can help you and your vet develop the most effective health and care plan for your pet. Just as certain health conditions are hereditary in humans, some dog breeds are prone to suffering from health conditions passed down from their ancestors. By having a detailed listing of your dog's ancestry information, you and your vet can be better prepared to handle potential health situations.

Better Grooming:
Whether you employ a professional groomer or if you trim your canine's hair on your own, understanding the origins of your dog's long hair or short hair can lead to better grooming practices, keeping your dog happy and healthy. Keeping your canine's hair at the right length helps it stay comfortable throughout the year.

Effective Training:
Dog DNA tests can also ensure your pup receives training appropriate to its breed family. Different dog breeds respond differently to certain training methods due to their inherent personality traits and instincts. When you know how and why your dog will react in specific situations, you can alter your training methods for a more effective approach.

Through accurate mixed breed testing, you no longer have to wonder why your dog behaves the way it does or worry that your dog might develop hereditary health conditions that you should know about. Understanding your dog's ancestry can build a strong relationship with you and your pet while keeping your dog healthy.