Doggie DNA: Why You Should Find Out the Breed of Your Mixed Dog

Have you ever wondered just what breed your pound puppy is? Although you adopted him with an open and loving heart, when people ask you what type of dog he is, wouldn't you like to be able to respond with more than, "Oh, he's a mix?"

I know from experience that it gets a little old having to answer people about my dog's breed every time I exit the house with him because the truth of the matter is--I have absolutely no idea what his genetic makeup is. I can guess, but it would be nice to have a definitive answer.

Well, there is good news for all of the parents of mixed breed dogs. The day is almost here when you will be able to find out the breed of your four-legged friends. A company called Mars, Incorporated is introducing a doggie DNA test that will be available to pet owners in September of 2007.

A subsidiary of Mars, Inc., Mars Veterinary, is the actual developer of the test which is named the Wisdom Panel MX Test. The company has created an innovative way to test your dog. The Wisdom Panel MX Test can recognize over 130 breeds and decide, based on your dog's DNA, which of those breeds your dog is.

All that is required to perform the test is a small blood sample from your dog which can be taken during any veterinary visit. Your vet can then send the sample out to Mars, who will then perform the test based on a fee specified by your vet. When the test is complete, Mars will send you a detailed description of your dog's genetic makeup based on the DNA of over 130 breeds in about three weeks.

Many dog owners --including myself-- are excited about the prospect of a doggie DNA test, and we eagerly await the day in a few months when it will be available. Although curiosity is a motivating factor for many dog owners who want to know what their dog's breed is, there are also important health benefits associated with the test. If you know your dog's genetic makeup, you will be able to determine what ailments your dog might be prone to, and then you can properly care for your dog to prevent those conditions. You and your dog will both benefit from the simple test.

Ask your vet about this procedure on your next visit, and if your vet isn't aware of the Wisdom Panel MX Test, give them the website address so that they can learn more.

http://whatsmydog.com