Dog Breeds DNA Test. Could It Settle The Pit Bull Type Argument?

Mansfield,Nottinghamshire,UK -- Despite what recent reports in the media would suggest, it is not possible to determine the breed of a dog, or composition of a dog's breeding without seeing a pedigree, which relies on the pedigree being genuine. This is about to change however, with the launch of a DNA test that can tell you what breed of dog you are dealing with if you are unsure.

MMI Genomics, a subsidiary of the life science group MetaMorphix, Inc., announced today the launch of the first commercial, DNA-based, diagnostic test that can genetically determine the breed composition of dogs. Canine Heritage(TM) is a diagnostic test that uses MetaMorphix's state-of-the-art, SNP-based, DNA technology to certify up to 38 major breeds. The Canine Heritage(TM) test is easy to administer and requires only a cheek swab sample to be mailed to the company for analysis. Results are returned to owners in 4-6 weeks.

"This is very exciting news for dog lovers," said Dr. Ed Quattlebaum, Co-Chairman and CEO of MetaMorphix, Inc. "The first question always asked of mixed-breed dog owners is, 'What kind of dog is that?' Now, owners need not guess and can say with certainty, 'The Canine Heritage(TM) test showed that my dog is a mix of Labrador Retriever, English Setter and Border Collie'. In addition to better understanding your pet's behaviour, your dog's breed analysis can enable you to work more closely with your veterinarian to develop a lifetime health and wellness program."

In America, where the test is being launched, rescue organizations and animal shelters account for roughly half of the 6 million dogs taken home per year and only 25% of these pets are purebred. Beyond an adopter's innate curiosity about their new pet, owners are interested in their dog's breed composition so they can make informed decisions that ensure happy and healthy lives for their animals.

The test could have far reaching ramifications in the UK too, should it translate to the British market. With many owners of dogs of a certain size or appearance being accused of owning illegal breeds, they may be able to prove the heritage of their dog.

USEFUL LINKS

www.metamorphixinc.com

http://www.k9magazine.com/viewarticle.php?sid=15&aid=1796&vid=0&npage=

 

That sounds great! I hope it will be afffordable (yeah, right) because I would LOVE to know what my "mutt" is! Now if they could input the information on microchips, that would be even better. The authorities could PROPERLY identify "vicious" dogs.

 

It's $55 for a DNA Identity. The same for a Gene match pedigree. Plus 10 to 15 bucks for shipping. Here's a link to the order form.

http://www.metamorphixinc.com/k9DNAsampleform.pdf

I'm going to do it and see what's up with my pup. I'll order it tomorrow.

 

I don't know. Is the information only sent to you or held in a database someplace else or there as well? I don't trust DNA profiling. Just something dark lurking under some of that technology. I suppose it is good when you have a question in your dogs breeding. However having a database of dogs and their breeding isn't something that sites well with me. Trust not your government to keep their dirty paws off of such information.

 

Well theres a confidetiality agreement on the smple form. They only keep the sample for 3 years. Hell, I'm doing it anyways. Worst they can do is clone my dog. LOL

 

Go for it brother. let me know what you find out. I find it interesting but scary.

 

To be honest, I won't believe it until I see it.

As for the "pit bulls", I'm interested in their thinking behind this one. Did they type all the "pit bull" breeds individually (like they should), or did they just find a generic "pit bull" & will be basing all others according to this possible mixed breed dog?

 

I'll find out soon. I am sending out the paperwork in the morn. I'll post the results and let you know how this junk works.

 

bad ass, im gonna do it how abou tyall?

 

thats really exciting

 

do you get like an official paper or somtihng back, i know there is a thing in the ukc where you can dna challenge another dog to the parents to make sure that there not paper hung.

anyways, back on subject, what do you get with it? and do they test our breed?...and can you rush deliver it??...lol

 

bump......

 

You might want to check w/ them about the cost. I heard it was only $40 to have parentage DNA verified. But when I called the company I found out it was $40 per dog. So since I had to swab mom & dad so they could compare it to the offspring, I ended up paying $120 for the DNA test, not $40.

Now the "paw print" DNA test should be a flat $55 since they are not confirming parentage, but rather comparing your dog's DNA to a breed marker.