Canine Heritage Test: Genetic Dog Breed Analysis

Majority of dog owners have no records or information regarding their pet's family history or exact type of breed. Owners of mixed breed dogs and their pet veterinarian, often have to take an educated guess, regarding the dog originally breed. Approximately six million dogs are in animal shelters and rescue organizations, and twenty-five percent of these dogs are purebred, however not always conclusively determined. When adopting or purchasing a dog, pet owners often seek a type of breed, that has the least number of health concerns, playful and safe to interact with children, and easily trainable. In many communities or cities, certain types of breed dogs are not allowed, maybe hard to distinguish in a mixed breed type of dog. Dr. E.J. Finocchio, D.V.M. of the Rhode Island S.P.C.A (Society For The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) said: "So you could have a dog that looks like a pit bull, walks like a bit bull, barks like a pit bull, but genetically it may not be a pit bull."

In January 2007, MMI Genomics located in Beltsville Maryland, (subsidiary of MetaMorphix Incorporated), launched the first commercial, DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid is a nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions for the development and function of a living organism) diagnostic test (Canine Heritage (TM)), genetically determine the breed composition of dogs (Up to 38 major breeds). The Canine Heritage test kit requires only a cheek swab sample to be mailed to the company for analysis. The cost is $65.00. The test can determine up to a maximum of five breeds in one dog. Results are returned to owners in four to six weeks. Dr. Daniel Simpson, D.V.M. of the West Bay Animal Hospital said: "You could test to see if your purebred dog is in fact a single breed." The information would be most helpful for dogs without breed registration papers during the purchase, adoption or confirm information provided to a buyer by a breeder, pet store or animal shelter. Genetic maps of dogs tie genes to diseases and traits for specific pedigrees. The new DNA technology has been used in courts to identify stolen dogs. Also, information maybe helpful purchasing dog (pet) health insurance coverage, knowing the exact type of breed.

During the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida from February 22 through 24, 2007 - MMI Genomics will introduce the new Canine Heritage test kit at booth #2885 and on the company's website.

MMI Genomics originally a division of Celera, the company known for sequencing the human genome (hereditary information). MMI Genomics over a decade, provided DNA based parent verification for major dog registries, including: American Kennel Club (AKC), the Professional Kennel Club (PKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and other breed clubs. The American Kennel Club reported a drop in purebred registration: 1.277 million in 1995 to 920,804 in 2005. The decline attributed to a higher compliance with DNA and medical testing to ensure the integrity of breeds.