Top 6 Dog Breeds Found in Mixed-Breed DNA Tests (2025 Vet Approved Guide) 🧬🐾

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Have you ever looked at your mixed-breed dog and wondered, "What breeds are in you?" 🐕🦺 Thanks to modern dog DNA tests, pet parents can now uncover their pup’s unique ancestry and get powerful insights into their behavior, health, and care needs. 💡 Let’s dive into the six most commonly found breeds in mixed-breed dogs—and what that means for your best friend! 🐾

🔬 Why DNA Testing Is a Game-Changer for Dog Owners

DNA testing does more than satisfy curiosity—it unlocks vital information about your dog’s wellbeing. 🧬 With just a cheek swab, you can learn:

• 🐶 Which breeds make up your dog’s ancestry
• 🩺 Genetic health risks to watch for early prevention
• 🎓 Behavioral tendencies to improve training strategies
• 🍖 Nutritional needs tailored to breed-related sensitivities

As Dr. Jason Sweitzer points out, “Knowledge is power, and these tests can give you some knowledge about the breed." 🧠 That power helps pet parents provide better care every day. 💞

🐾 The 6 Most Common Dog Breeds Found in Mixed-Breed DNA Tests

1. 1. 🐕 German Shepherd

   Traits: Loyal, alert, and highly intelligent.

   Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy.

   Care Tips: Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and joint supplements help keep them healthy and balanced.

2. 2. 🦮 Labrador Retriever

   Traits: Friendly, outgoing, and eager to please.

   Health Risks: Obesity, ear infections, and laryngeal paralysis.

   Care Tips: Use puzzle feeders 🧩, control portions, and keep ears dry and clean after swims. 🏊♂️

3. 3. 🐕 Chow Chow

   Traits: Reserved, independent, and loyal.

   Health Risks: Entropion (inward-turning eyelids), hip issues, thyroid problems.

   Care Tips: Routine eye checks 👁️, structured socialization, and a steady diet are musts.

4. 4. 🐾 Chihuahua

   Traits: Confident, lively, and expressive.

   Health Risks: Patellar luxation, dental disease, heart murmurs.

   Care Tips: Brush teeth daily 🪥 and watch for signs of knee or heart issues in older age.

5. 5. 🐕 Boxer

   Traits: Fun-loving, protective, and affectionate.

   Health Risks: Heart disease (like ARVC), cancer, and hip dysplasia.

   Care Tips: Schedule regular heart checks and keep them on the move—Boxers thrive with activity. 🏃♀️

6. 6. 🐶 American Staffordshire Terrier

   Traits: Brave, loyal, and loving with family.

   Health Risks: Skin allergies, hip issues, and certain genetic diseases like cerebellar ataxia.

   Care Tips: Keep an eye on their skin 🧴, train with positive reinforcement, and provide lots of enrichment. 🧸

🧠 How Breed Insights Improve Everyday Pet Care

Knowing your dog’s genetic mix helps personalize your approach to their wellbeing:

• 🎯 Training: Tailor your methods to match instinctual behaviors.
• 🩺 Veterinary Prevention: Stay one step ahead of breed-linked issues.
• 🥩 Nutrition: Choose diets that support their unique needs.

🧬 Choosing the Right Dog DNA Test in 2025

To get the best results, look for kits that offer:

• 📊 Large breed databases (like Embark or Wisdom Panel)
• 🧫 Health screening add-ons for genetic conditions
• 🔍 Detailed ancestry reports with behavioral traits included

Check out PetMD’s updated review of the Best Dog DNA Test Kits for reliable recommendations. 🧪

📋 Final Thoughts: Knowledge Leads to Better Pet Care

Knowing your dog’s DNA can transform how you care for them—helping you address health risks early, train more effectively, and build a stronger bond. 💞 Whether your pup is part German Shepherd or a little bit Chihuahua, every gene tells a story worth knowing. 📖

For tailored advice based on your dog’s DNA and behavior, visit AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app for expert guidance anytime. 🐕📲