This week, Dr. Manley addresses a reader's question about doggie DNA testing.

This week's question:
Dr. Manley,
I have a lab mix and I'm interested in knowing what other breeds he has in him. My question is, how accurate is the DNA test and what kind of information will it give me? Will it just list breeds or give percentages? Thanks!

Dr. Manley's Reply:
There are several companies that offer DNA testing. Most report the primary breed, and a secondary breed or nearest match to your pet. The companies have a limited numbers of breeds they can test against. A recent thread on Veterinary Information Network discussed a trial involving a sample from a pet sent to three separate DNA labs. The results from the labs reported three entirely different matches...

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley

Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.