May 22, 2008 9:03 pm US/Eastern
New DNA Tests Can Reveal A Dog's True Identity
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
Millions of Americans are owners of mixed breed dogs. The number one question many face is 'what kind of dog is that?'
Mary Bubala reports on a new test that could help millions of dog owners figure out what's in the mix.
CSI investigators use DNA evidence in almost every episode to catch criminals. In real life, it helps crack some of the toughest cases in court.
DNA evidence is also giving dogs their identity and owners some answers.
DNA testing for dogs is new. It surfaced in the world of purebred breeding. Puppy mills were passing off Cairn terriers for the prestigious Norfolk terriers. DNA tests quickly confirmed who's pure and who's not.
Now the owners of mutts are getting in on the action.
Tony Hildebrand didn't know for sure what mix his dog Perla was. Tony's best guess was that Perla is a Sheltie mix.
The dog's true colors are just a blood test away. Local vet Dr. Evan Feinberg offers DNA testing specifically for mixed breeds called the Wisdom Panel MX.
"I think it's amazing that you are taking a technology that was created for people and crime solving and you are turning it into something that the average pet owner can have access to, and that's brand new," said Dr. Feinberg.
It's also incredibly high-tech. More than 19 million DNA markers from more than 13,000 dogs allow the test to identify more than 130 breeds.
It gives owners information to help answer important questions about a dog's temperament, treatment and care.
The results show that Perla is predominantly a German shepherd. Add to that Chow Chow, Shiba Inu and Welsh terrier. Perla did not have an ounce of Sheltie.
"It's just awesome that we can test the dog, find out what they are so I can help her live forever," Hildebrand said.
The test costs $125 and takes about a month to get the results.
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