Here are some questions we are often asked regarding the MuttMix process. Click on the + sign to view the answers.
Can I collect the DNA myself?
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are normally available 6-8 weeks from receipt of your sample. Results will be emailed to you.
Does the price of the test include the processing fee?
Why are several breeds listed on my Canine Breed Composition DNA Analysis Certificate, and what do the levels mean?
In processing, breeds are detected as ranges rather than absolute values. These are then listed on your certificate as Levels, which are defined as follows: Level 1: 61-99% of the DNA found in your dog is from the breed listed. Level 2: Each breed listed represents between 40-60% of your dog’s DNA. Level 3: Each breed listed represents between 26-39% of your dog’s DNA. Level 4: Each breed listed represents between 10-25% of your dog’s DNA. Level 5: Each breed listed represents less than 10% of your dog’s DNA. Level 6: This represents a single breed match only, no other breeds were detected.
Will you be adding more dogs to your database?
Can I use your test to register my dog in a breed club?
How does the test actually work?
Our lab is dedicated to testing for breed determination and we have invested a considerable amount of research into our Canine DNA test. We stand behind the results of every single test we perform.
How many breeds does your test recognize?
The breeds that we detect are the most common breeds you see, such as Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, Yorkshire Terrier or Chihuahua, for example. These common breeds are the ones most likely to be present in a mixed breed dog or in the increasingly common designer dogs. The rare breeds that are found are unlikely present in a regular mixed breed, so breeds like Komondorok, Kuvasz or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon will not be seen in many mixed breed dogs. As the cost and time of performing the Breed ID test goes up as you add more breeds, we decided to include just the most common breeds to keep the price down to meet your needs. Why pay more, when for most people the breeds that make up their dog are the common ones? For more than 99% of the samples we have received, we have been able to match the samples to our breeds. To see which breeds we currently test for please click here.
Is the size of my dog controlled by the same markers as the breed?
You use cheek swabs for your test. Are you able to use blood?
Cheek swabs or buccal swabs are one of the most common and easiest ways to collect DNA. They are also the standard for non-invasive collection of DNA samples. We are not able to process blood samples.
Do you test for Wolf or Coyote?
Can you determine the sex or age of my dog with your test?
The Domestic Breed test measures the breeds in your dog and does not test for other factors such as age or sex. Should you wish to determine the Genetic age of your dog, the Genetic Age test can be done at the same time as the Domestic Breed test. Please click here for more information.
My dog destroyed one of the swabs, what should I do?
Does DNA collection hurt my pet?
How do you know which breeds are present in my dog?
What is the Canine Breed Composition DNA Analysis Certificate?
What if there are breeds in my dog that are not in your database?
Can you confirm that my dog is pure bred?
Why is pit bull not on your list?
How was the test developed?
I have read that the number of markers is critical for accurate breed identification, is that true?
Do you perform any quality control tests in your assay?
Do I need to send a photo along with my dog's sample?
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