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Humans and dogs share more than 80% of their DNA. Humans and cats share almost 90%. These high percentages of similarities make genetic sequencing in all three species mutually beneficial. Advancements in both human DNA testing and <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt370e0783930fdaeb" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/5-things-you-can-learn-from-your-dogs-dna-test">pet DNA testing</a> can potentially be applied across species.

Humans, cats, and dogs can develop similar diseases. These include obesity, heart disease, epilepsy, and many forms of cancer. Further research into how these diseases function between humans and pets has the potential to improve health care for all. For example, understanding the commonalities between the behaviors of cancer can lead to better diagnosis and treatment. Research has found that many groups of genes, such as those linked to digestion, neurological processes, and cancer development, are extremely similar between humans and dogs. When DNA testing in humans finds evidence linking particular genes to diseases, this knowledge may be transferable to the same genes and diseases in pets.

Because of their genetic similarities, there are currently several human medications that are used for treating dogs with the same conditions. Studies have found that some genetic variants specifically associated with canine cancer cells match those found in human cancer cells. The drugs developed for treating human cancer had similar effects on the canine cancer cells as they did on human cancer cells. As technology and research rapidly advances, more evidence is found through the study of <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt35fb51094b69afbe" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/what-is-gene-sequencing">gene sequencing</a>. By combining knowledge and comparing findings between human and pet DNA tests, we can further <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt26387f66cf7860e7" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/how-dna-data-will-improve-the-future-of-pet-care">improve health care</a> and development of treatments.

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Gene Homology: How Human Gene Data Helps Pets

With advancing technology, DNA tests for pets are becoming more accessible. You may be wondering: What is a DNA test? How can my dog benefit from one? There are some definitions to understand when discussing gene sequencing.

There are four chemical bases, or nucleotides, that make up deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The base Adenine is paired with Thymine, and Cytosine with Guanine. The nucleotides are linked together by a hydrogen bond to form the rung of the DNA double helix.

A gene is a particular segment of a DNA strand. Cells read the sequence of a gene in groups of three. These triplets are called codons. A codon signals which amino acid will be synthesized. The 20 amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins.

A chromosome is a single strand of DNA. They carry thousands of genes that are passed down through generations during reproduction.

A genome is the comprehensive collection of an organism’s chromosomes. Dogs have 39 pairs of chromosomes, cats have 19, and humans have 23. A genome is the entirety of an individual’s genetic makeup.

The order of the base pairs in a DNA segment can change the instructions for a particular gene. Single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, are like spelling mistakes. Spelling mistakes can change the whole meaning of the word, or not change much at all. SNPs are genetic variations. Certain differences in gene sequences can have little to no effect, where others could completely change a pet’s genetic makeup. Pets can inherit these genetic variations, leading to genetic diseases being passed down. 
Because genetic variations can be passed down through generations, gene sequencing is the scientific process of reading DNA sequences to look for SNPs. In the process of gene sequencing, nucleotides are tagged with fluorescent dyes for identification and a machine reads the order of the DNA bases. The machine scans for SNPs in particular genes that scientists have determined to be linked to different traits or health concerns. 
Acquiring more DNA samples from a population creates a larger data pool for scientists to analyze. The more data they have, the more accurately they can compare gene sequences in a population and variations among them. This increase in accuracy can build evidence that certain genetic variations can then be linked to certain diseases or health issues. Advances in gene sequencing can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of diseases. Gene sequences can also help determine the best treatment for these diseases.

<a data-sys-entry-uid="blt370e0783930fdaeb" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/5-things-you-can-learn-from-your-dogs-dna-test">Pet DNA tests</a> are available for owners to better understand their pet’s genetic makeup and be more aware of potential health risks their pet may have.

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What is Gene Sequencing?

Breed identification is the most accurate result of a DNA test. Different breeds are best fit for certain diets and wellness plans. In general, some breeds are more energetic and may require more exercise. Others may be more prone to health risks such as hip dysplasia or <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt48a5e63523a5a8e9" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/dog-breeds-most-likely-to-get-cancer">cancer</a>. Learning the breeds that your dog descends from can help you better understand their behaviors and be more conscious of potential health risks.

Many of the DNA tests available trace back to a dog’s great grandparents. Looking at a family history can also be an indication of health factors that could be passed down. Many diseases are genetic, so knowing your dog’s ancestry can help you know what symptoms to watch for.

Some DNA tests may assess risk for over 100 health conditions in your dog. Certain genetic variants are linked to specific concerns, such as those concerning a dog’s heart, blood, metabolic, neuromuscular, and skeletal issues. DNA testing in dogs is an emerging field of study. As more <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt26387f66cf7860e7" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/how-dna-data-will-improve-the-future-of-pet-care">studies are conducted</a>, researchers will have more concrete evidence to firmly link gene variants with a disease.

Your dog’s unique gene sequence may also give indications of their sensitivities to certain drugs and foods. Before changing your dog’s diet, consult with your veterinarian.

Physical traits are simpler to determine from DNA than behavioral, and many are identified through DNA testing. These particular traits are interesting to owners and important to breeders. For example, you already know the coat texture and color of your dog, but they may have recessive genes that are hidden and can be passed onto their offspring. Behavioral traits are harder to pinpoint from DNA because while genes affecting physical traits are usually controlled by only one gene, behavior traits are a complex combination of several genes and are not as accurately identified in a DNA test.

DNA testing should be used as a way to understand your pet’s unique genetic coding and to be more aware of potential concerns. These tests for dogs are not yet as accurate as human tests. Keep in mind that just because your dog has a particular gene, it does not mean for certain that they will develop a disease. It only means they are at higher risk. For help interpreting your dog’s DNA tests results, <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt0678a721d10f3227" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/you-got-your-pets-dna-test-results-back-now-what">talk with your veterinarian</a> about any questions you may have.

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5 Things You Can Learn from Your Dog’s DNA Test

DNA testing can help you better understand the genetic makeup of your pet. You can <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt370e0783930fdaeb" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/5-things-you-can-learn-from-your-dogs-dna-test">learn</a> many things about them, such as their ancestry, specific breed, and traits. You can also learn about certain diseases they may be more prone to developing or if they have sensitivities to foods and drugs. Understanding your pet’s specific breed may spark a discussion with your veterinarian about diet and exercise plans that are best suited for their particular breed. While learning about the DNA of your pet, it is important to keep in mind that these tests may not always be 100% accurate. 
Having the genetic mutation for a disease is not the same as having the disease. For example, if your pet has a genetic mutation linked to a specific type of cancer, they may not currently have the cancer, but they are at risk for developing it. Also, just because the DNA test did not detect a mutation for a particular disease, this does not mean your pet will never develop it. View the DNA test as a warning of risk, not of certainty. One of the major benefits of DNA tests is that they can help with earlier diagnoses. Early diagnoses lead to starting treatments earlier and improving your pet’s quality of life. Knowing that your pet is at risk for a cancer can help you be aware of the early <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt7a484b6daa1dd94f" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/5-signs-of-cancer-in-dogs">signs and symptoms</a>. 
Even if your pet does not have a genetic mutation for cancer, they may have mutations for other health concerns. DNA tests allow owners to gain prior knowledge about health issues that may impact their pet. Your <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt10c6ab6ec2207e79" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/recognize-the-subtle-signs-of-pain">dog</a> or <a data-sys-entry-uid="bltba09e13e6078c030" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/more-than-a-meow">cat</a> may start showing pain symptoms, and if you are aware of what they are, you can take action sooner. Talk with your veterinarian about the specifics of the issues your pet is at risk for developing. Know what these issues are, what symptoms to be on the lookout for, and what treatment options are available. 
Your pet is still the same pet they were before their DNA test results came back. The results do not change who they are, they change how much you know about them. These tests are not meant to redesign your pet’s life. Rather, they help you understand them and predict some of the health issues they may face. Correlation does not always equal causation, so before making any changes to your pet’s lifestyle based on their DNA test, have a discussion with your veterinarian about what their results mean.

owner reading test results on laptop with dog

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You Got Your Pet’s DNA Test Results Back. Now What?

Anivive Team

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How DNA Data Will Improve the Future of Pet Care

Dr. Stephen Sutherland

no approved treatment for eighty five-percent of pet diseases

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Why are There So Few Drugs Approved Specifically for Veterinary Use?

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From Test Tube to Prescription, What Does It Take to Get a Drug Approved?

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Who Regulates Veterinary Drugs?

two white cats, a gray poodle, and a corgi sitting in a row against a pink background

Pet Tech

How DNA Data Will Improve the Future of Pet Care

Why are There So Few Drugs Approved Specifically for Veterinary Use?

From Test Tube to Prescription, What Does It Take to Get a Drug Approved?

Who Regulates Veterinary Drugs?

Are Animal Drugs Subject to Less Regulation than Human Drugs?

What Does It Mean When a Drug is “Conditionally Approved” by the FDA?

What Does it Mean if a Drug is FDA Approved?

You Got Your Pet’s DNA Test Results Back. Now What?

5 Things You Can Learn from Your Dog’s DNA Test

What is Gene Sequencing?

Gene Homology: How Human Gene Data Helps Pets