How Does DNA Testing Work: Breed Identification Process Overview

How does a dog DNA testing work? check out the basic method and commonly asked questions about dog DNA testing

• Wisdom Panel MX extracts DNA from blood samples drawn at your clinic, and analyzes it in 13 separate test reactions.
• The DNA is examined by mass spectrometry at more than 300 points where single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are commonly found.
• The combination of SNPs in each tested dog's DNA is compared with breed-associated SNP patterns (breed signatures in Mars Veterinary's proprietary genetic database, assembled from DNA analyses of over 25,000 purebred dogs)
• Over 100,000 iterative comparisons are made with each tested dog's DNA using a complex statistical algorithm.
• The strength and frequency of matches are used to determine which breeds are detected.
• A detailed, customized report is then provided to veterinarians and owners within 2-3 weeks.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: How many breeds can the Wisdom Panel MX test recognize?

A: The test currently detects 134 breeds, and MARS Veterinary is working on adding additional breeds as well. The 134 Breeds cover 99 percent of AKC registered dogs.

Q: How accurate is the test?

A: The test has an average accuracy of 84 percent. Because many breeds have very similar genetic make ups, a false positive would report a breed that is not present in the sample, but closely related to one that is. It is rarer that the test would not pick up a breed that is present.

Q: How many breeds can it detect in one dog?

A: The test can detect six to eight breeds in one dog- back to the dog's grandparents. The test can also tell if a dog has more of one breed's DNA than the other.

Q: What makes this test different from other tests available?

A: The Wisdom Panel MX test has the ability to detect more breeds than other tests. It also uses a blood sample instead of a mouth swab. The blood test provides a richer sample that gives more accurate and thorough results than a swab.