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Monday, July 7th
Basepaws, a pet genetics company established in 2017, provides easy-to-use and affordable tools to spot potential health issues in your pet early on. They pioneered the first comprehensive at-home cat DNA and oral health tests, and they're constantly expanding their large database of feline genomics and oral microbiomes. Now, they're branching out into dog research and development. As of 2022, they've partnered with Zoetis, a global leader in animal health, to create a healthier and brighter future for pets. Initially focused on and popular for cats, they're now beginning to offer dog DNA tests too.
$149 for Breed + Health test
Basepaws currently offers only one test for dogs: the Breed + Health Dog DNA Test. They have separate tests for traits and diseases coming soon, though. The Breed + Health test screens for health issues across 280 markers, analyzes breed makeup from 300+ breeds, and provides a rundown of your dog's physical traits from their list of 30+ traits, which is all very standard. When we visited the site, their sole test was priced at $99, discounted from $149. At full price, that's only about $10 cheaper than some of our top dog DNA test provider picks.
Breeds scored by similarity on 0-10 scale
Basepaws doesn't currently provide a sample report for dogs, just for cats. What we can tell you is that they utilize a breed similarity score rather than breed percentage using a 0-10 points scoring system. Basepaws doesn't appear to have a relatives database, so if finding your dog's four-legged family is important to you, you'll need to pick a different test.
Results in 4-6 weeks
To use the Basepaws test, you'll first need to create an account and register your kit online. After that, you'll take a quick swab from your dog's gums and teeth, which should only take about 5-10 seconds. Once you've done that, you can send the sample back. Don't worry about shipping in the US - it's free. The cost for international shipping is worked out at checkout. After you send off your sample, you just have to wait about 4-6 weeks to get your results.
180-day return policy and free replacements for failed samples
Ready for a bunch of "if-then” statements to understand Basepaws' policies? Here goes. If you've bought a test kit from Basepaws and want to return it, you can do so within 180 days of purchase, but it has to be unused and in its original packaging. If you get a discount on your order and a new promotion comes up within 14 days of your purchase, Basepaws will generously match the price. If your test results are incomplete because your DNA sample wasn't sufficient, Basepaws will offer a free replacement kit. If you don't want to use the replacement, they'll refund the portion of the test that couldn't be completed. If you have questions about your pet's results, check out Basepaws' blogs and white pages first. But, if you're still not satisfied, you can email them; they may retest for you if your dog's genotype and phenotype don't align. If you request a refund before the full 6 weeks of processing are over, you'll need to cover the $15 cost for kit materials and shipping. If you're refunded after your sample has been processed, you won't be able to access your online report anymore.
Decent but doesn't stand out
Basepaws currently holds a "B-” grade from the Better Business Bureau. When it comes to test accuracy, customers have mixed feelings, but that's fairly common for dog DNA tests. Some potential customers may want to know that Basepaws doesn't include village dogs in their database, and wolfdog owners might get inaccurate results. If your dog is a mix of a handful of common breeds, though, your results will likely be satisfactory. Basepaws doesn't have a lot that makes them stand out from the competition, but if you spot a good sale, there's no reason not to take advantage of it.
Have you ever looked at your dog, with her mismatched ears and quirky habits, and thought, "What in the world are you?" Well, you're not alone. Many dog owners are turning to DNA tests out of curiosity about their furry friend's breed, health predispositions, and even unique behavioral traits.
Whether you adopted your pup from a shelter with a mysterious past, or simply want to understand why your dog insists on greeting any visitors with a toy in his mouth, a DNA test might just hold the answers. However, there are quite a few services offering dog DNA tests these days, so you may be wondering if one is much different from the other.
Some tests focus solely on identifying breed composition, which can be fascinating for owners of mutts - who knew your funny-looking Boston Terrier has a Chow Chow great-grandparent? If you want to be proactive in managing your pet's health, you might prefer a test that screens for genetic health conditions. Some tests analyze traits and behaviors, shedding light on why your dog might exhibit certain habits, like digging up your dahlias or barking exclusively at his reflection in the oven door.
Some popular dog DNA tests also offer a relative database feature, connecting you with other dogs that share your pet's DNA. This can be a fun way to "meet" your dog's relatives and possibly even find some siblings. If this is important to you, double-check that the service you're considering offers this.
Some companies out there offer tests that can identify food or drug allergies your dog is likely to have. Other tests can estimate their age. These options can be really useful if something is making your dog sick, or if you're just curious about how old they really are. You may want to pay a little more for a breed identification test that includes health screenings for genetic disorders. This way, you can prepare for potential health issues and discuss preventive measures with your veterinarian.
As you shop online for a dog DNA test, here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Choosing the right dog DNA test isn't just a walk in the park. It requires careful consideration of these factors. Whether you're driven by curiosity about your dog's breed or concerned about potential health issues, the right test can provide insights that deepen your understanding and strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Top Consumer Reviews has sniffed out and ranked the best Dog DNA Tests available. We hope this review helps you fetch the perfect test for your four-legged buddy, making your shared journey even more pawsome.
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