Royal Canin introduces DNA analysis for dogs

ST. CHARLES, Mo. — Royal Canin USA, a pet food brand, announced the Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis, which identifies a dog's specific breed makeup, which may help veterinarians identify potential health problems caused by genetic mutations.



When using the analysis, a dog’s ancestry is determined by comparing their DNA to the genetic signatures of more than 250 different breeds, the company said. It currently screens for 700 different mutations, with more added regularly. Based on the results dog owners and vets can develop a custom health-and-wellness based on the dog's code.



Royal Canin partnered with the Waltham Research Center, Mars Veterinary and Wisdom Panel to develop the analysis based on a decade of research and development with a team of geneticists, veterinarians and nutritionists.