If you have a dog, you may have wondered about his or her breed. Knowing your dog's breed can help you better understand their personality, behaviour, and care needs, as well as potential health risks.
However, identifying a dog's breed can be a challenge, especially if your dog is a mixed breed or has unknown parentage.
Luckily, there are several ways you can identify your dog's breed, including using online tools or apps, looking for physical characteristics, checking paperwork, or even using DNA testing.
Let’s find out more.
Here some of the best ways to identify the breed of your dog:
Consult a veterinarian or animal behaviourist - They can often identify a dog's breed or mix of breeds based on physical characteristics, temperament, and behaviour.
Use a dog breed identifier tool - There are several online tools available that can help you identify your dog's breed based on photos and descriptions.
Look for physical characteristics - Look at your dog's physical characteristics, such as size, coat colour and texture, ear shape, and tail length. These can often give you clues as to your dog's breed.
Check your dog's paperwork - If you obtained your dog from a breeder or shelter, there may be paperwork that identifies their breed.
DNA testing - DNA tests are now available for dogs which can identify their breed and may even give you information about their genetic health risks.
Next, we’ll investigate how technology can help you figure out your dog’s breed.
Is there an app for identifying a dog breed?
I had no doubt which mixed breed my pup Bean was, as he has the typical playful, vivacious Cavapoo temperament, but if you’re unsure and want to find out about your dog’s breed, there are some cool apps out there to help you.
Some of the most popular apps include:
Dog Scanner - This app uses AI to identify the breed of a dog based on a photo.
Fetch! - This app not only helps you identify the breed of a dog, but also provides information about the breed's personality and care needs.
Dog Breeds - This app includes a database of over 400 dog breeds, along with photos and descriptions of each breed.
DoggZam! - This app uses machine learning to identify the breed of a dog based on a photo.
Keep in mind, these apps are not always 100% accurate, and it's always a good idea to consult with your vet for a professional opinion on your dog's breed.
Can you tell a dog breed by DNA test?
Yes, DNA tests can be used to identify a dog's breed. A DNA test for dogs involves taking a sample of the dog's DNA, typically through a cheek swab, and analysing it for specific genetic markers that are associated with different dog breeds.
This can give you a reliable and accurate method for identifying a dog's breed, particularly if the dog is a mixed breed.
There are several DNA tests available for dogs, and they can provide different levels of detail about a dog's breed makeup. Some tests can identify the dog's primary breed, while others can identify multiple breeds and even give information about potential health risks associated with certain breeds.
You should note that while DNA tests can be helpful for identifying a dog's breed, they are not fool proof and may not be able to identify every breed in a dog's ancestry.
Additionally, some breeds may share genetic markers with other breeds, which can lead to errors in identification. Remember, you can always seek an opinion from your vet if you have any doubts.
How much does it cost to find out the breed of your dog?
The cost of finding out the breed of your dog can vary depending on the method you choose. Here are some common methods and their approximate costs.
Consult a veterinarian or animal behaviourist: This is often the most reliable method but can also be the most expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200 or more for a consultation.
Use a dog breed identifier tool: There are several online tools available that can help you identify your dog's breed based on photos and descriptions. Many of these tools are free, but some may require a small fee, typically around £10-20.
Look for physical characteristics: This is free but may not always provide a definitive answer.
DNA testing: DNA tests are now available for dogs. The cost of a DNA test can range from around £50 to £150 or more.
You can also, of course, check your dog’s paperwork for free.
Remember, these costs are approximate and can vary depending on your location and the method you choose. If, when you’ve known the breed of your dog, you want an idea a on whether they are likely to get along with other animals, check out our post on do Cavapoos get on well with cats.
Wrapping up
Identifying your dog's breed is an important part of being a responsible dog owner. Knowing your dog's breed can help you understand their unique characteristics, care needs, and potential health risks.
While there are several methods available for identifying your dog's breed, consulting with a vet is often the most reliable way to do it. Using technology such as online breed identifier tools or dog breed identification apps can also be helpful.
By taking the time to identify your dog's breed, you can provide them with the best care possible and build a stronger bond with your beloved pup.
