Geneology is something that interests a great many people, and exploring your own past can be fun. DNA kits are an easy way to find out where your ancestors came from, but it turns out the family pet can also benefit from these tests. Here are a few ways DNA testing can come in handy for your pet.

How big is big?

If you come home with a mixed breed puppy, it’s not always clear just how big the dog is going to get. Dogs can be as small as 2 pounds or top out well over 100, and when you get a mixed breed from unknown parents it’s helpful to know just how big the breeds were.

Knowing the size of your future pet can also help you in determining how much and what type of food your dog needs.

What instincts will your dog have?

Certain breeds of dogs have been bred for centuries to perform specific tasks. The dogs they bred were ones who had an aptitude for herding, scenting, or hunting. Although many of these breeds are now kept as pets, they still have these instincts.

Knowing what sort of breeds go into the makeup of your dog can help you to prepare for these instincts. Is your dog part beagle? Scent work classes could be in your future. Does he have border collie or sheltie in him? He might enjoy agility or treball as an outlet for his energy.

What health problems need to be looked for?

Small dogs tend to be prone to tooth problems, while larger dogs can have joint issues. Although mixed breeds are often touted as having hybrid vigor, it’s also possible that they’ll get the worst of both parents.

Your puppy may not have any health problems at all, but if you know what health problems are common in his ancestors, you’ll know what to keep tabs on.

DNA testing is fun, but also helpful when it comes to your pet. If you own a mixed breed, it can help you learn a lot of valuable information about your pet.