Today, there are more tools available than ever before to help devoted dog owners take care of their pets. Whether you want to know which breed your rescue dog really is or make sure you’re prepared to meet any genetic conditions your canine may develop, DNA testing has transformed the way we care for our dogs. But if you’re considering getting your four-legged friend tested, it’s important to find the best dog DNA test for you.
How Do Dog DNA Tests Work?
While there is a wide variety of different testing options available, the best dog DNA tests work by comparing your pup’s unique genetic code against a large database gathered from other dogs.
Gathering a sample is a simple process. All you have to do is swab the inside of your dog’s cheek with the swabs provided with the kit and then send them back to the company. (Some more in-depth tests may require you to have your vet collect a blood sample.) Once the results are calculated, you get them either on paper or online.
How to Choose the Best Dog DNA Test
While the market is filled with options for canine genetic testing, not all tests are created equal. Understanding what goes into the best dog DNA testing services can ensure that you get the most out of the kit you choose. So let’s take a look at some of the factors that make the best dog DNA tests so superior.
Reliability
The first factor in choosing the best dog DNA test is how reliable the results are. What’s the point of spending money on a test if the results are vague or inaccurate?
As we mentioned above, results are determined by comparing your dog’s DNA to a database. This can be an issue for some newer companies, which have not been around long enough to build a sufficiently large pool of results. The best companies, on the other hand, have been in the genetic testing business for a long time, meaning that their databases are extensive and their results have an extremely high degree of accuracy and reliability.
For example, animal genetic testing leader Orivet Genetic Pet Care has been serving breeders, veterinarians, and pet owners around the world for over 15 years. Not only does this mean that they have huge amounts of reference data, but it has also helped them develop a highly specialized line of breed-specific tests.
Accessibility and Support
The other most important factor to consider when choosing the best dog DNA test is how your pet’s results are provided. Most companies offer an online portal where you can access your dog’s results, but the best of these include functions beyond simply viewing the data.
For example, the best dog DNA tests also allow you to share the results, so you can keep your vet up to date about your dog’s important details. In the case of Orivet, you can easily share information from your dog’s (or cat’s) test results directly with your veterinarian’s office.
Orivet Genetic Pet Care
A leader in genetic testing for dogs and cats, Orivet offers a range of genetic services to owners, breeders, and veterinarians, including screening of genetic diseases, coat colors, traits, parentage confirmation, and much more. As one of the oldest dog DNA testing companies in the world, Orivet offers a comprehensive range of specially developed canine and feline tests.
Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or a seasoned breeder, Orivet’s at-home testing kits provide a surefire way to better understand your dog’s breeding and lifestyle needs. With actionable insights and a 360-degree understanding of each pet, you can predict health issues, give them a more rewarding lifestyle, and raise dogs that are happier overall.
To learn more and see the full range of available testing kits, head to orivet.com.