Should You DNA Test Your Mixed Breed Dog? What You’ll Learn (and What You Might Not).

If you’ve ever looked at your mixed breed dog and thought, What are you?, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions mutt owners have is what breeds are in their dog’s mix—and DNA tests promise to deliver the answer. But are they worth it? And what can you really learn from that cheek swab?

Dog DNA tests have come a long way in recent years. While they won’t reveal your dog’s deepest secrets, they can tell you a surprising amount about their background, health, and traits. Still, they’re not magic—and depending on your expectations, they might leave you with more questions than answers.

Here’s what to know before you swab your dog’s cheek.

How Dog DNA Tests Work

Most dog DNA tests are pretty simple: you order a kit, use a swab to collect a saliva sample from your dog’s cheek, then mail it back. In a few weeks, you’ll get results through an app or email.

The test compares your dog’s DNA to a massive database of breed profiles. The more breeds in the database, the more accurate the match is likely to be. Popular brands like Embark and Wisdom Panel have analyzed hundreds of thousands of dogs, making them the most reliable options on the market right now.

Some tests also screen for genetic health conditions and traits, giving you more insight into your dog’s future care needs.

What You Can Learn From a Dog DNA Test

Here’s what a quality DNA test can tell you:

Breed Breakdown
This is the fun part—percentages of each breed in your dog’s mix. You might see a clear split like 50% Border Collie and 50% Lab, or a more complex mix like 25% German Shepherd, 12% Boxer, and so on.

Family Tree
Some tests go back a generation or two to show your dog’s parents or grandparents (or at least breed groups for them).

Traits and Physical Features
Many tests offer predictions about coat type, color, ear shape, adult size, shedding level, and even likelihood of certain behaviors.

Health Risks
Some DNA kits include screenings for genetic diseases common in certain breeds—like hip dysplasia, heart conditions, or drug sensitivities.

Breed Groups and Behavior Tendencies
You may get info on whether your dog’s breed mix leans toward herding, hunting, guarding, or retrieving instincts.

What You Might Not Learn (Or Might Not Be Accurate)

Dog DNA testing isn’t flawless. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Behavior Predictions Aren’t Guarantees
Just because your dog has some Border Collie in them doesn’t mean they’ll be a frisbee champ. DNA gives clues, but environment, training, and personality still shape your dog the most.

Small Percentages Can Be Murky
If your report says “3% Chihuahua,” take it with a grain of salt. Those tiny percentages are harder to confirm and less likely to influence your dog’s traits.

Surprising Results Happen
Don’t be shocked if your “Lab mix” turns out to be mostly Pit Bull and Boxer. Shelter guesses and visual IDs are often way off.

Rare Breeds May Be Misidentified
If a breed isn’t well represented in the company’s database, your dog’s DNA might be matched to the next closest thing—which can lead to weird or inaccurate results.

Health Reports Aren’t a Diagnosis
A DNA test might flag your dog as “at risk” for a condition they’ll never develop. It can be useful info, but always check in with your vet before worrying (or celebrating) too much.

Pros of DNA Testing Your Mixed Breed Dog

Satisfies curiosity
Sometimes, you just really want to know what your dog is. It’s fun, and it makes for great conversation.

Helps understand health risks
Some breed mixes have higher risks for certain issues. Knowing in advance can help you plan vet care, supplements, or activity levels.

Can explain traits
If your dog has herding instincts or a super high energy level, knowing they’re part Aussie or Collie might help it all click.

Might guide care or training
Some owners adjust their dog’s diet, exercise routine, or grooming schedule based on breed tendencies.

Useful for rescues and shelters
DNA testing can help shelters label dogs more accurately, which can make a big difference in finding them homes.

Cons or Limitations to Consider

Cost
Tests range from $80–$200+. Pricier kits usually include health screenings.

Results can be vague
If your dog is a “super mutt” (many, many breeds), you might get results that feel more confusing than clarifying.

Might not change anything
You might learn your dog is 50% something surprising… and still love belly rubs, chase squirrels, and sleep under the table like always.

Can cause unnecessary stress
Some health results sound scary but aren’t always relevant. It’s easy to overthink the findings without veterinary guidance.

Not perfect accuracy
No test is 100% accurate, especially in dogs with lots of mixed ancestry. Results should be seen as informative, not absolute.

Real Owner Stories: Why People Test Their Dogs

“I thought my dog was mostly Lab, but the DNA test said she’s actually half Border Collie—explains the herding!”
— Taylor, from Pennsylvania

“We used a test to find out if our rescue had any bully breeds because of local housing restrictions. It gave us peace of mind.”
— Ravi, from California

“The health screening flagged a gene for joint issues, so we talked to our vet about preventative supplements. Better to know early.”
— Maya, from Illinois

Should You Test Your Dog? How to Decide

Ask yourself why you’re curious. If it’s just for fun, go for it—just manage your expectations. You might get some cool insights or some unexpected surprises, but either way, it’s a great story to tell at the dog park.

If you’re hoping to use the results for health planning, make sure you choose a test that includes veterinary-reviewed health screenings and traits. And remember, results should guide care—not replace a vet’s advice.

DNA testing isn’t essential, but it can be a fun and informative way to learn more about your dog’s unique background.

Conclusion: DNA Testing Is Fun—But Not a Magic Answer

Dog DNA tests are a great tool for satisfying curiosity and uncovering some clues about your dog’s ancestry, traits, and health. But they’re not fortune tellers. Your dog is still one-of-a-kind, no matter what their results say.

If you’re up for a little science and a lot of fun, a dog DNA test might be just the thing to help you understand your mixed breed mutt a little better.

FAQ

How accurate are dog DNA tests?
They’re generally accurate for identifying common breeds, especially in large percentages. Smaller percentages and rare breeds can be hit or miss.

Will a DNA test tell me how my dog will behave?
Not exactly. It might explain certain tendencies, but behavior is mostly shaped by training, environment, and socialization.

Are health results from DNA tests trustworthy?
They can be helpful for flagging certain risks, but they don’t replace professional diagnosis or regular vet care.