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Is this the same type of DNA test I see on popular TV crime solving shows?

No, the Canine Heritage Breed Test is a much more advanced and complex type of DNA analysis than those seen on TV. While a few basic forms of DNA analysis, such as PCR, are used in processing the DNA, the key DNA analysis used in the test comes from the latest advances in genomics science and technology – most of which have occurred in the past seven years. Every DNA sample undergoes a lengthy analysis and results are reviewed as part of an extensive quality assurance and control process. Unlike TV, where DNA results are ‘magically’ done between commercial breaks, the test does take several weeks to complete. We hope the information presented here will give you a better idea of what is involved in testing your dog’s DNA.

What is the Canine Heritage Breed Test?

The Canine Heritage Breed Test is the first DNA-based breed test, giving mixed breed dog owners the opportunity to find out just what breeds comprise their beloved four-legged family member. By comparing DNA markers found in your pet with those specific to purebred dogs, the Canine Heritage Breed Test can identify the breed composition of your mix breed dog and report that information to you, the proud pet parent, in a Certificate of DNA Breed Analysis.

Who is MMI Genomics, Inc.?

With nearly 15 years in the canine DNA business and having tested over one-half million canine DNA samples, MMI Genomics, Inc. (MMIG) is a highly experienced laboratory. We set ourselves apart in the animal DNA field by researching, developing and marketing all of our own DNA tests. MMIG is the primary DNA service provider for numerous canine registries around the world, including the American Kennel Club (AKC), United Kennel Club (UKC) and Professional Kennel Club (PKC). In 2001, while a business unit of Celera Genomics, the company that decoded the human genome, we participated in the most advanced genomic research in the world – years ahead of other companies. We led the private effort to sequence the canine genome. With this unique experience, knowledge, and state-of-the-art genomics technology, we have developed our current line of advanced DNA-based products and services.

How was the Canine Heritage Breed Test Developed?

Already a world leader in canine DNA technology, we began to dig deeper into canine genomics as part of our desire to provide dog-owners a better understanding of the genetic make-up of their dog. Our mission is to improve a pet’s well-being and strengthen the bond between pet and pet parent. We hope that pet parents will use this information to improve health, promote wellness, and gain a better understanding of the behavior and personality of their canine companion. The Canine Heritage Breed Test also provides a unique means of satisfying the curiosity of mixed-breed dog owners wishing to fill in the missing pieces of their pet’s breed and ancestry puzzle.

The Canine Heritage Breed Test began with the search for a set of unique DNA markers, known as SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms), which could identify the breed of a purebred dog. We started by testing over 400 different DNA markers on over 100 purebred breeds* to identify the unique combination of markers that describe each breed. After testing thousands of purebred dogs, a unique breed DNA profile was developed using over 400 DNA markers per breed. From these initial markers we identified a smaller subset of markers used for the Canine Heritage Breed Test. This final marker set, based on a blind study using thousands of dogs that have been verified to be purebred by AKC certification, was able to successfully assign the correct breed over 99% of the time when testing purebred dogs that are among our identifiable breeds. These markers were then applied and validated on mixed breed dog populations.

While the Canine Heritage Breed Test has gained unprecedented media attention and satisfied the curiosity of tens of thousands mixed breed dog owners, we see it as just the first in a series of products that will allow you to use genetic information to better manage health and wellness throughout the entire lifetime of your pet.

Will DNA test results from different companies be the same?

Each company developed its test independently, so there are a number of factors that can effect the results of any particular dog. During the research phase, each company must identify a set of DNA “markers” that characterize differences from breed to breed. Then these “markers” must be characterized in a set of dogs representing the pure breeds. Not only are these markers different across companies, but the number and source of the purebred dogs are different. No company can test every purebred dog representing a breed, and every company will have developed software that is used to compare these genetic markers across breeds.

The following are some scenarios that demonstrate these differences:

Some breeds are closely related because they were developed from the crossing of older, more established breeds. For example, Boston Terriers were developed from the crossing of the English Bulldog and English White Terrier. So, depending on the company’s software, the markers established for the purebreds and the population of breeds in each company’s database, the same dog may test “Boston Terrier” with one company and “English Bulldog” with another.

Some breeds are related because they arose from a common lineage, such as many of the breeds developed from Asia. Early in our validation, we recognized that the Chow Chow, Akita, Siberian Husky, Chinese Shar-Pei and even the Shih-Tzu can cluster together as one general breed type category. In response, we developed an enhanced program and analysis procedure to split these breeds apart.

A dog similar to the Italian Greyhound has been found in Egyptian tombs! How many breeds must be influenced by that ancestor! Thus it is not surprising that different companies may report slightly different results, especially for the breeds that have just a small representation in the mixed breed pet.

What happens to my sample?

Once we receive your dog’s DNA sample, it goes through multiple laboratory processes and rigorous quality control mechanisms. The following is a brief summary of the steps that each sample must go through prior to reporting the results:

1) Sample arrives via USPS at laboratory – Each sample must be properly opened, examined and logged into our proprietary Laboratory Information Management System so that it can be easily tracked and monitored through each laboratory process. At this time your pet’s information is logged into our system and the sample is given several forms of identification.

2) DNA Isolation and Amplification – Each sample is then delivered to our DNA isolation laboratory where your dog’s DNA is extracted from the cheek swab. We then perform PCR, a laboratory process that amplifies the concentration of your pet’s DNA by making copies of it, to give us a sufficient amount of DNA for the test.

3) Breed Test Processing – Once the PCR process is complete, we are ready to begin the Canine Heritage Breed Test for your dog. DNA is then chemically enhanced and run through state-of-the-art laboratory equipment that identifies hundreds of key SNP marker locations.

4) Analysis – Now that the markers have been identified for your pet’s sample, these markers are put through a complex proprietary analytical program that compares your pet’s markers with that of our pure breed database markers, ultimately determining which breeds are in your pet’s composition. The analysis software puts its findings into three categories.

a) First, it determines if your dog’s genetic profile is a strong match with any of the profiles of the purebred dogs in our database. If so, the breed(s) identified is placed into the “primary” results category and represents a very large portion of your pet’s breed composition.

b) If a good match is found, but it’s not a perfect match, this information is placed into the “secondary” results category. While these breeds may have an influence on your pets look and personality, each breed listed makes up a smaller portion of your pet’s breed composition.

c) If the match looks good, but fewer markers match the profile of a purebred dog that information is placed “In the Mix” results category. This final category identifies breeds that have the least amount of influence on your pet’s composition. They appear at low but measurable amounts in your pet’s DNA.

Once analyzed, each sample is then carefully reviewed by a scientific review panel to ensure that it meets all of our rigorous standards and numerous quality control checks.

5) Reporting – After final approval of your dog’s breed results, it is ready for reporting. If you uploaded a picture of your dog, it is then linked to the results. Our Canine Heritage Team prints your Certificate of DNA Breed Analysis and ships your results to you via USPS.

*These breeds are registered and recognized by the AKC.