Home Podcast TOP #94: How DNA Research Is Helping Dogs Around the World

TOP #94: How DNA Research Is Helping Dogs Around the World

Scientists around the world are exploring how a better understanding of our genetic makeup can improve our lives – and those of our beloved pets. In the age of “wearables,” trackable health technology, and DNA testing for ancestry and health, more and more healthcare is heading toward a future of personalized, proactive, and preventative care. Did you know that recent genetic research is helping to improve the lives of our pets?

Researchers looking into the DNA profile and biomarkers of pets are unpacking the secrets behind what makes them tick. Understanding a pet’s genetic history can give us more insight into their behavior (e.g., why certain cats might be more talkative or affectionate – or why particular dogs might “den” dig or “herd”).

It’s also providing some insight into our pets’ health (e.g., which breeds are likely to develop certain diseases and which breeds require a specific diet). This information can allow pet owners and vets to make better decisions about their animal’s nutrition and exercise needs, enable preventative solutions, and improve their pet’s overall health.

In this podcast episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Angela Hughes, the veterinary genetics research manager for Wisdom Panel and Mars Veterinary (a division of Mars Petcare). Dr. Hughes is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and has a PhD focused on Canine Genetics. She will be discussing some of the research that is currently being done on dog genetics and what impact that research will have on the future of pets and their owners.

Listen to the podcast episode in the video above and subscribe below.

Samantha’s biggest passion in life is spending time with her Boxer dogs. After she rescued her first Boxer in 2004, Samantha fell in love with the breed and has continued to rescue three other Boxers since then. She enjoys hiking and swimming with her Boxers, Maddie and Chloe.