FAQ
Why choose The Kennel Club’s DNA testing service?
Not only will we provide you with the information you need to understand your dog’s genetics and to make informed breeding decisions, but you’ll also be contributing towards ongoing scientific research that will help dogs now and in the future.
Unlike many others labs, as part of this package, you’ll also receive a full DNA profile for your dog.
How does it work?
We’ll send you a sample collection kit straight to your door, but there’s no need to be in for delivery as the box will fit through your letter box. All you need to do is swab the inside of your dog’s cheek using the swabs provided and return these using the pre-paid envelope. Typically we only need one swab for all of the testing, however, our sample collection kits contain two swabs to make sure we collect enough DNA and we have an extra swab if something isn’t right with the first one.
We’ll do the rest and email you the results as soon as they’re ready.
When will I get the results?
The results and DNA profile will be emailed to you as soon as they’re ready. They’ll also be automatically uploaded onto your dog’s record and you’ll receive a hard copy certificate in the post shortly after.
Turnaround times are dependent on variable factors but we aim to return results within 1-3 weeks of receiving the samples. Sometimes the laboratory must re-run a sample. This is called a retest and in these cases, the turnaround time is inevitably extended, but we’ll keep you updated and let you know if we expect any delays.
How do I collect DNA from my dog?
Collecting a sample of DNA from your dog couldn’t be simpler and there’s no need to visit your vet. We’ll send you two small brushes, known as mouth/buccal swabs, which you can use to gently rub the inside of your dog’s cheek, causing loose cheek cells to stick to the bristles. This is completely painless for your dog and the entire process only takes a few minutes. The swab then needs to be returned to the laboratory, where the cheek cells will be broken open and the DNA is analysed.
How old does my dog have to be?
There are no age requirements for DNA testing - a dog’s DNA stays the same throughout its entire life.
When testing young puppies, we recommend removing them from their mother for an hour before collecting the sample to avoid cross-contamination.
Why test your dog?
Understanding your dog’s genetics will give you the information you need to prepare for your dog’s future. Knowing in advance what diseases your dog may develop allows you to take preventative steps to support their health and potentially avoid costly vet bills to cover diagnostic tests and treatments later on.
If you're thinking of breeding from your dog, then knowing more about their genetics will reduce the risk of producing puppies affected by inherited conditions. Providing you and new puppy owners with the peace of mind of knowing the health of your puppies’ hasn’t been left to chance.
Can I use this service if my dog isn’t registered with The Kennel Club?
Yes absolutely, we just won’t be able to record the results on our website. When ordering please enter your dog’s microchip number and breed.
What is a DNA profile?
A DNA profile gives you a unique genetic code for your dog. You could think of it like your dog’s very own genetic fingerprint. This allows accurate identification of your dog and can be used to confirm their parentage. Unlike other identification means, a DNA profile remains the same throughout the dog’s entire life and cannot be lost, manipulated or destroyed.
Due to the laboratory’s cutting-edge technology, we offer the industry’s gold-standard SNP DNA profile (ISAG 2020). You’ll receive a certificate confirming your dog has been profiled, with a copy of the profile. The profile will also be stored on our database for continuous access, should you want to use it at a later date.
A DNA profile is not a breed assignment test and will not tell you what breed(s) your dog is thought to be.
Have a discount code?
Discount codes can be applied to your cart before proceeding to checkout. Simply click ‘add a discount code’ and add your unique code. Discount codes are case-sensitive.
The Kennel Club Assured Breeders and Kennel Club Accredited Instructor members receive a 10% discount on all of our DNA testing services. To receive your discount code, please contact The Kennel Club Assured Breeders and Kennel Club Accredited Instructor team.
Where can I find out more about canine genetics?
If you'd like to find out more about how genetic conditions are inherited, what DNA is, how a gene is made and how these translate into a dog’s body then why not read our guide on understanding canine genetics or visit The Kennel Club Academy and watch our film about canine genetics.
For more information about our DNA testing service, please contact our health team.
Order your sample collection kit today for delivery at your doorstep and enjoy free 3-5 day shipping (Royal Mail 2nd class) inclusive of VAT and packaging.
Swab your dog's cheek with provided swabs and return in prepaid envelope. The process is quick, easy, and gentle for your dog.
Return the swabs to us using the prepaid envelope provided. We'll email you to confirm receipt and begin processing immediately.
You will receive your dog's results via email, post, and automatic upload to your dog's profile. Our standard turn-around time is 1-3 weeks* from when samples are received.
