Spoiler Alert: Your "Lab Mix" Might Be Part Wolf

Ever look at your dog and think "What the heck are you?" Maybe your shelter said "Lab mix" but your pup acts more like a tiny tornado with separation anxiety. Or perhaps your "Chihuahua" is mysteriously the size of a small horse.

Dog DNA testing can finally answer the burning question: What breeds are actually hiding in your furry mystery mutt? Plus, it might explain why your dog does that weird thing with their food bowl.

Mindy Tenenbaum, owner of DNA My Dog, started selling DNA test kits while working with animal rescues in Toronto. At first, it was just a fundraising thing. But she quickly saw how the results helped owners actually understand their pets better. So she bought the whole lab and grew the business.

Here are six common questions about dog DNA testing, answered by Mindy (with our own spin, of course).

1. Why Do People Test Their Dog's DNA?

Most dogs that get tested are mixed-breed rescues. Owners want to know what breeds are lurking in their dog's genetic soup. The results can be wild — some "Chihuahua" puppies turned out to be part German Shepherd. Shelters have seen dogs get adopted way faster after posting their DNA results too.

2. What Does the DNA Test Actually Tell You?

The test breaks down all the breeds that make up your dog's DNA. It also gives you a summary of personality traits and breed-specific health stuff to watch out for. Finally, you'll understand why your "calm lap dog" keeps trying to herd your kids around the room.

3. Does It Only Figure Out Breed?

Nope! DNA My Dog can test for wolf content (yes, really), do hybrid testing, check for canine allergies, and even estimate your dog's genetic age. They can even test deceased dogs using old toys or toothbrushes, which often gives owners some closure.

4. How Right Is the Test?

When you collect the sample correctly at home, results are over 99% accurate. Accuracy can get messed up by sample contamination or if your dog's breed isn't in their database. But most breeds — especially the ones common in shelter dogs — are covered.

5. Does It Hurt Your Dog?

Not at all. It's just a simple cheek swab, which is totally painless. You mail the sample, and results come back in about two weeks. Way easier than trying to guess based on your dog's weird habits.

6. What Are the Good Parts of Testing?

Knowing your dog's genetic makeup helps you spot potential health problems early and understand behavior patterns. Plus, it satisfies that burning curiosity about where your dog's quirks come from. Why does your dog hate water? Genetics might explain it.

All Dogs Are Welcome at Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale

No matter what your DNA test reveals, all friendly dogs are welcome at Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale. We offer dog daycare, overnight boarding, and grooming services in a safe, social, and fun environment.

We focus on temperament and behavior, not breed. Whether your dog turns out to be part wolf or part poodle, we'll love them just the same.

Ready to Give Your Mystery Mutt the Best Day Ever?

DNA results or not, your dog deserves amazing care and fun with friends. Contact us today to schedule a visit and see why dogs of all breeds love coming here!

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