DNA My Dog Canine
Genetic Age Test
Price: Genetic Age + Breed (full test) €99, Genetic Age only €69
Testing: 1 Dog Sample
Timeframe: 2 to 3 weeks from receipt of samples at the laboratory
The Canine Genetic Age test is the first available canine telomeres test on the market. This brand new test identifies a dog’s biological age and breed composition making it an ideal tool for taking control of their ageing process, health and lifestyle. Biological age is not to be confused with chronological or actual age since it gives insight into the health situation and predicted longevity of the tested dog. On the other hand, a complete breakdown of the dog’s breed composition provides insight into the dog’s personality traits, exercise routines and health risks expected from each individual breed in the dog.
But how does the Test work?
Genetic Age testing for dogs measures the length of a dog’s telomeres, the protective caps at the end of each chromosome that are known to shorten with age. The telomere length is processed through the Canine Genetic Age database and matched with thousands of similar dogs in order to identify the dog’s age at a genetic level. The test does not stop there, it also analyses the dog’s genetic makeup and uses its extensive genetic database of certified dog breeds to discover all the breeds found in the dog’s DNA. Why don’t you take a look at the list of breeds tested?
What can be Discovered though this Test?
By analysing the canine’s telomere length, the test can help dog owners:
- determine the genetic age when the age is not known, a common issue with shelter dogs
- take control of the aging process by making changes to the dog’s diet or lifestyle
- recognise that the dog is suffering from an undiagnosed illness such as cancer or diabetes
By analysing the canine’s genetic makeup, the test can help dog owners:
- discover all the breeds within the dog, a full breakdown of the composition is provided
- determine the personality traits and exercise routines expected from each breed
- identify the health problems that could plague the dog based on their particular breed mix
Important note: The Canine Genetic Age test is not diagnostic and does not offer medical advice. The test is for informational purposes only and currently Patent Pending.
Sample Collection and Test Results
The DNA sample required for this test is cheek cells. The dog owner is requested to collect the sample by gently rubbing the provided mouth swabs inside the dog’s mouth, against the inner cheek. The rubbing procedure should not take more than a minute and is completely painless. Once samples are in the laboratory, scientists will proceed to analyse the DNA found in the dog’s cheek cells. Results for the Genetic Age test are available within 2 to 3 weeks from receipt of samples at the laboratory. Take a look at a sample report of this DNA test!
Important note: The dog owner is requested to provide the weight of their canine. If the tested dog is a puppy (less than 2.5 years old), scientists will not use their weight but place it in the anticipated group based on their breed and likely weight. Providing the dog’s weight can help scientists deliver more accurate results! Please make sure to select the respective option when ordering the test.
Are you only interested in the Genetic Age?
We understand that you may not need to identify the breeds in your dog and that is why the company offers to test for genetic age only! When testing only for the age, the dog owner is requested to provide the suspected or known breed(s) of their canine. Ideally, the owner provides the dog’s exact breed(s) but if they are unsure and suspect that they have a particular breed or more, scientists still can use that information (based on weight) for a more accurate result. Please make sure to select the respective option when ordering the test.
Check out our Premium Dog Testing Package!
Benefit from a discount by ordering our premium package priced at €182 including both the Canine Genetic Age test and Dog Allergy test! Are you only interested in discovering what breeds make up your dog? The company also offers Dog Breed DNA testing as a separate test on its own! Is your dog showing symptoms of allergic reactions such as increased scratching or runny eyes? A Dog Allergy test can identify the allergen, or allergens, which are causing your dog’s allergies.