What Breed is My Dog? - How to identify your mixed breed

If you have a mixed-breed dog, you've most likely wondered, "what breed is my dog?" You may have been quizzed on your dog's breed by friends and neighbors. And while you might have some ideas and speculations based on your dog's overall appearance, it can be hard to pinpoint your pup's origins.

Alt-Text: A mixed breed dog on a furry rug.

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Fortunately, there are quite a few ways to figure out what type of breeds are a part of your furry best friend.

Dog DNA tests make it easier than ever to find out what type of breed your dog is. Pick up your Dog DNA test today.

Why Dog Breeds Matter?

You might be wondering why knowing what breeds make up your mixed dog even matters. However, knowing what breeds make up your pup can give you a lot of insight into their medical expectations and some other behavioral habits.

For example, if a dog is mixed with two breeds prone to hip dysplasia, you can pay extra close attention to their hips as it grows.

Furthermore, knowing what breeds make up your perfect pup can help you better understand your dog. While all dogs are different, some breeds are known for specific traits.

Huskys are known to be vocal, beagles are known to sniff around, and Sheepdogs are good at protecting a flock. So, if you know what breeds are in your pup, you can better understand why they do the things they do.

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So, while it may not seem important at first, understanding your dog's breed makeup is a key part of owning a mixed-breed dog.

Alt-Text: A mixed breed dog waiting for a cookie.

Ways to Identify the Breeds in Your Dog

There are a few ways to identify the breeds of dog in your mixed-breed pup. You can do this by looking at physical appearance or noticing specific behaviors.

When you look at their physical appearance, pay close attention to markings and colors. As some breeds only come in specific colors. Furthermore, eye shapes, wrinkles, and even tails can all be telltale signs of what breeds are in your dog.

Apps

There are several apps out there that can help you identify the breeds in your mixed-breed dog. Some of these apps use pictures to help you determine the breeds in your pup. In contrast, others use information about specific physical traits.

However, these apps are better at identifying purebred dogs. Furthermore, they are less accurate in identifying mixed breed dogs.

Apps may be a helpful tool if you spot a dog in your neighborhood and want to know what breed it is. However, they are unlikely to assist you in determining the pedigree of your own mixed-breed pet.

Online Quizzes

Several online quizzes can help you identify the breeds in your mixed-breed dog. While they are less accurate than DNA tests, they can be a valuable tool to get started in determining the breeds that make up your pup.

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Dog DNA Testing 

DNA testing is the most accurate way to determine what breeds are in your mixed-breed dog. These tests can be beneficial if your dog is a rescue and you don't know any family history of your pup.

These tests work by checking your dog's DNA for sequences associated with certain breeds. However, most dog DNA is identical. A DNA test will notice the slight differences that separate a Great Dane from a Yorkshire Terrier.

Some companies run the tests, and even at-home tests need to be sent out to a lab. But the results are the best you can get.

Alt-Text: A mixed breed dog with a vest on outside.

How Accurate are Dog DNA Tests?

Over the years that these tests have been around, they have become more accurate than ever. And while they are not 100% accurate, they are the best way to identify the breeds in your mixed-breed dog. In fact, DNA tests are close to 95% accurate in determining a dog's breed makeup. However, it is best if you looked at these tests with a skeptical eye.

Conclusion

Knowing the breeds in your mixed-breed dog can be extremely helpful, especially when it comes to understanding their medical history and behavioral tendencies. While there are a few ways to identify the breeds in your pup, DNA testing is the most accurate way to get an answer.

Get your own dog DNA test kit today and find out your dog's history today!