How to Find Dog's Ancestry Using Canine DNA Testing

In the Bahamas, they have a dog called a "potcake." The name came about because the Islanders would feed the leftover cakes to the dogs. All the potcakes look pretty much alike. If you wake up every morning next to a wonderful mixed-breed dog, consider yourself lucky. But if you have ever wondered what breeds of dog went into your little prince or princess, try one of the products on the market.

Things You'll Need

  • DNA test kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Understand how a canine DNA test is performed. The most common technique for testing a dog ancestry through DNA is by collecting saliva with a cotton swab from the cheeks. Using a commercial DNA test, the sample collected is sent to the testing company for analysis and results. Each company offers different types of canine DNA tests and analysis to uncover ancestry.

    • 2

      Choose a dog's DNA test to find ancestry. A breed DNA test is performed to find out which breeds are in a dog's ancestry. A parent verification test can identify the true parents of a dog in order to validate pure pedigree's ancestry. For this test the dog's parent samples must be collected as well. An inherited disease test identifies illnesses in the dog's ancestry. These illnesses may potentially affect the dog in the future.

    • 3

      Find a commercial canine DNA test kit for evaluation. There are many tests on the market that can be performed at home. Evaluate DNA testing services based on the company's reputation, test's costs, number of breeds the test can identify and veterinarian recommendations. Follow the chosen company's instructions on collecting the DNA samples and on finding and interpreting the test results.

    • 4

      Use the veterinarian's office to perform canine DNA testing. Many veterinarians offer dog DNA testing services at their office. This is an alternative to the home DNA tests. The doctor's test is performed using the dog's saliva and/or blood samples. The results are obtained directly by the veterinarian and shared with the dog's owners.