Can DNA testing help keep your dog healthy?

DNA tests from archaeological sites show that humans have owned dogs for around 50,000 years. But while the idea of people having animals in their homes is ancient, testing a dog's DNA to find out more about their breed is relatively new for most owners. In fact, DNA tests for dogs only became available about 20 years ago, when American petcare company Wisdom started the canine genomics project in 1999. Since then, it claims to have tested more than 850,000 swabs of dog saliva – giving a typical owner access to the world's largest database.

Other companies have taken a slightly different approach. For example, rather than building a huge database, Embark Vet has focused on collecting dog DNA from around the globe to create its library of 250 breeds. It has genetic information from coyotes, wolves and village dogs (dogs that existed before the modern breeds that we know today), which is especially useful for mixed breeds as, it says, it can even determine exactly where a village dog may have come from.

Many firms now offer DNA testing for dogs, but this can come with big differences in price. While it may be tempting to buy the cheapest test kit available, keep in mind that this could affect the size and quality of the database against which your pets DNA is tested. Think of it is as going to a library to find your favourite book. Just as you wouldnt look for poetry in a science library, it also doesnt make sense to check your European rescue dog's DNA with a company that only holds samples from North American purebreeds.

Instead, a more comprehensive database, which holds information on the area you know your pet is originally from, is usually the best choice. If you're unsure, contact the company before buying a kit and make sure to question them about their database, as well as how their pricing works.

Apart from curiosity, there is good reason to test your dog. Only by knowing their breed(s) can you make sure to pay attention to, and even prevent, certain conditions they may be prone to.

For example, German Shepherds can develop hip problems and Huskies are prone to autoimmune disorders. While a DNA test can never replace a diagnosis by your vet, knowing whats in your dogs genes means you can look for symptoms more effectively.