You’ve probably heard that dogs and cats have different types of DNA. Because dogs and cats have essentially the same structure as humans, only their DNA is highly foreign.
That’s right. Your pet might be the first in a new category.
Think of it like being in the middle of the road. You’re not supposed to lean toward one side or the other. But if you’re being tested for your heritage, it’s helpful to know how your DNA test will help you decide if you’re a true Breed or a fan of another. And if your partner isn’t a fan of your canine or feline relative, it’s even better.
Also, note that the DNA testing services we’re referring to will be quite different. Some services only test for the same genes, like those used to create breeds, and some test for dozens of other genes or even ones like mitochondrial (which is a genetic code and won’t tell you what breed you are). So, whether you’re just interested in seeing how your pet matches up with other animals or want to find out if your animal matches with a specific breed, it’s essential to understand what features go into deciding.
What makes up a dog or cat’s genome?
DNA for dogs and cats from Orivet services is very similar to that of human beings. But there are minor differences in the genetic structure that indicate breed specifications. The most notable difference is in mitochondria DNA. To understand how this translates into an actual dog, it’s helpful to know how DNA works. Our bodies carry around chromosomes—short strands of DNA that contain all our genetic blueprints. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a separate strand of DNA in the cell’s nucleus (not the same place your body keeps your genes).
A dog’s mtDNA is passed on from the mother. In humans, mtDNA has a lot of affecting our lives—it’s hereditary, and it can be used to trace ancestry and serve as an outline for health problems. This doesn’t occur in dogs. While there are some similarities, dogs’ mtDNA isn’t passed on through their mother. Because of this, the differences between dog breeds have to be attributed to other factors.
Dog Breed Standards Based on DNA Testing
Most people know that breeds are created with bloodlines from specific ancestors. However, how do those lines become broken or strengthened? How were these animals bred? These are all questions that geneticists and breeders alike want to be answered for specific reasons: for health, population control, or just learning about how animals are related to each other and how their genetic makeup presents particular characteristics that influence their personality function in society (adaptability).
