Calling all pet lovers who have marvelous mutts in their lives! There are new DNA tests that can identify the many breeds that inside your dog. I just took the Wisdom Panel MX Mixed Breed Analysis by Mars Veterinary test for my 12-pound dog named Cleo. As you can see by the accompanying photo, she looks like a Bichon-Maltese-Poodle-Met-A-Terrier mix. WRONG! The blood test came back with the surprising -- and a bit amusing results: Cleo is a Miniature Poodle-BASSET HOUND! What a hoot!
It turns out that both her parents were mutts, at least one grandparent was a poodle and at least one great-grandparent was a Basset hound -- that may explain why Cleo sports a wavy, apricot-colored coat but spends way too much time on walks sniffing trees and lawns.
I urge you to consider this breed test for health and behavior reasons. Knowing the blend of breeds in your dog can help you and your veterinarian be on the lookout for any early signs of inheritable diseases. Also, you will have a better grasp of your dog's temperament based on his "family tree."
I also invite all of you to tune in to my OH BEHAVE! show on Pet Life Radio.com starting Jan. 1. The latest show will feature Dr. Angela Hughes, a veterinary geneticist who explains in a fun and fascinating way how these DNA breed tests work. Don't miss it!
Happy HOWL-I-DAYS to all you zootooers and may you have a fine 2009! Cheers, Arden