For those of you that do not know, Mars in addition to manufacturing candies (M&M's, Snickers, etc), food (Uncle Bens, Seeds of Change) they also are very large in the petcare business owning Banfield, Pedigree, Royal Canin, Nutro, Greenies, Wiskas, etc, etc.
They have been very active in the mapping of the Canine Genome and according to their press release have a DNA test to map your dog's genetic make up.
I've attached the press release below. Sounds rather interesting.
Taking the mystery out of mixed-breed dogs
Mars Veterinary™ Launches the Most Comprehensive DNA-Based Mixed Breed Test for Dogs
October 9, 2007
With roughly half of all dogs in the United States being mixed breed and the bulk of owners - 86% - unsure of their pet’s breed composition, a revolutionary new test devised by Mars Veterinary™ now eliminates the guessing game. “The new WISDOM Panel MX test marks a major milestone in canine genetic science by applying the results of proprietary genetic research to help identify the origins of physical and behavioral traits,” says Peter Markwell, veterinarian and Chief Science Officer at Mars Veterinary. “This test is the first in an anticipated line of Wisdom tests that will provide insight into canine genetic science and ultimately, help strengthen the pet-owner bond.”
WISDOM Panel MX, is the most comprehensive DNA-based mixed breed test for dogs and is currently being rolling out in veterinary clinics and hospitals all across the country. The test can detect more than 130 breeds that may be present in a mixed breed dog, covering 99% of American Kennel Club (AKC) registered dogs, and is the only test of this type being offered exclusively through vets.
Since the test is available exclusively through vets, it will also enable dog owners to work together with their vets to interpret the test data and tailor care and wellness plans for their companions based on their test results.
For example, prior to taking the WISDOM Panel MX test, US consumer Becky Shelton had assumed her mixed breed dog Sol was a Jack Russell Terrier and German Shepherd mix. His test results reveal he is in fact a Norfolk Terrier, German Shepherd Dog and Dachshund mix. “I was certainly curious about Sol’s breed background but found it even more compelling to understand how his breed mix may help my vet and me look after him better,” says Shelton.
The science behind the test
The state-of-the-art WISDOM Panel MX test is based on years of extensive research, drawing on the expertise of leading scientists, vets, universities and breed organizations throughout the world. Its development included the analysis of more than 19m DNA markers from more than 13,000 dogs. As a result, the test is the most complete and comprehensive product on the market, able to detect the breed composition of a dog with an average accuracy of 84%.
How WISDOM Panel MX works
In order to be able to detect the more than 130 AKC-recognized breeds, an adequate quantity of high-quality DNA is required. DNA of this quality and quantity can only be obtained from a small blood sample, which can easily be collected during a routine veterinary visit.
Within two to three weeks following the test, Mars Veterinary will provide owners and veterinarians with a customized, comprehensive report that includes the dog’s breed analysis and detailed information on the appearance and potential behavioral characteristics of detected breeds. The veterinarian and owner can then create tailored care and wellness plans covering important factors such as nutrition, exercise and training needs.
To find out more about WISDOM Panel MX, visit
www.whatsmydog.com.