Genetic breed determination in dogs

How does the breed determination work?

Microsatellites serve as molecular markers to genetically determine the breed affiliation of the dog. By analysing several microsatellites, a unique pattern is created, the so-called DNA profile or “genetic fingerprint”. This profile forms the basis for matching your animal with the hundreds of reference animals of the breeds listed above. Complex statistical calculations are used to determine which breed components are found in your animal.

Limits of breed classification

Genetic proportions of breeds that are not included in our database cannot be detected, which leads to lower assignment probabilities. The result always shows the probability of the dog being assigned to the breeds in our database. Each breed is tested to determine whether the dog to be tested belongs to it or not.

Probabilities at a glance

• Purebred dogs: Matching probability over 80% based on the Classic STR DNA profile.
• One parent purebred: Assignment probabilities between 40% and 60%.
• Assignment probabilities below 30%: These results are not meaningful and indicate that the dog is neither purebred nor a crossbreed with one parent belonging to one of the reference populations.

Possibilities and limits of genetic breed determination

A high level of test reliability in genetic tests for breed determination is only possible with an up-to-date data pool that corresponds to the geographical population of the animal in question. The absence of a crossbred breed in the data pool does not lead to a misclassification, but only to low assignment probabilities. Assignment probabilities below 30% are not meaningful, as test reliability cannot be guaranteed.

Genetic race classification as evidence

The genetic breed classification can serve as important evidence to substantiate a phenotypic breed assessment (fighting dog problems, foundling dogs, etc.). Dogs that are classified as “list dogs” due to their phenotype and come to the shelter are usually difficult to place. Many animal lovers are put off by the prescribed requirements and the dog often faces a life that is not in keeping with its nature. Foundling dogs with a fighting dog-like appearance often experience a similar fate. A genetic report that disproves that a dog belongs to a breed classified as dangerous can give the animal the chance of a better life.

Paternity test

If the alleged parents are known, parentage testing is the best way to confirm or rule out paternity.