Dog DNA Tests: Does Pet Insurance Cover It?

Ancestry: It’s not just for humans! Your pup has a genetic history just as long as yours, and learning about it could help you prepare for potential health issues. But how does dog genetic testing work, and is it covered by pet insurance? Keep reading for answers to these and other doggy DNA questions!

A MetLife Pet Insurance policy with a Preventive Care add-on can help cover dog DNA tests purchased through your vet.¹ See our pet insurance prices.

What Does a Dog DNA Test Tell You?

Let’s go over the basics before we get into the details. DNA is made up of four nucleotides, which are generally known by their abbreviations: G, C, T, and A. How these nucleotides are paired is what determines the genetic makeup of all life on Earth (including dogs!). This, in turn, is expressed as physical characteristics. Your dog’s DNA determines everything from the color of their fur to the length of their tail and even their personality.^2,3

So what can we learn by looking at a dog’s DNA? It can tell you about their ancestry — the dog breeds that your pup’s unique makeup comes from. If you have a mixed breed, you might be surprised to learn about your dog’s ancestors and where they came from. Purebred breeders also use dog ancestry tests to maintain a healthy genetic diversity and avoid the potential pitfalls of inbreeding.²

In addition, one of the main benefits of dog DNA tests is their ability to give you an inside look at your dog’s potential health concerns. Many canine diseases have genetic markers that can be recognized before that disease ever manifests. Knowing which conditions your pup’s genetic makeup predisposes them to can arm you with the information you need to be proactive about their health. While the presence of hereditary disease markers doesn’t necessarily mean your dog will experience those in their lifetime, you can work together with your vet to minimize the odds and prepare if that time comes.²

How Accurate Are Dog DNA Tests?

Knowing your dog’s genetic makeup isn’t worth much if it’s not accurate, right? So how well do dog DNA tests actually work?

The science behind them is sound. The study of genetics started in the 1800s, and modern DNA science has existed for decades.⁴ That said, there’s still a long way to go before we can fully understand the genome of any animal as complex as a dog.

It’s also important to consider who’s conducting the DNA test. There are many direct-to-consumer companies offering dog ancestry tests these days, but not all of them are created equal. In fact, a study conducted by students in the University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Department of Bioinformatics concluded that some genetic testing companies might be relying more on a photo of your dog than their actual DNA.  According to the researchers, “In most cases, at least one test provided a breed prediction that did not match the registered breed.”⁵

Your best bet might be to have your dog’s DNA tested through your trusted veterinarian. They should be able to tell you more about the process and the laboratory tests they use.³

MetLife Pet Can Cover Dog DNA Tests and Illness Costs

Most pet insurance providers won’t cover genetic testing under a standard policy, as it’s not considered medically necessary. That would leave you to pay the cost of a dog DNA test out of pocket, which could range from $60 – $200. For many dog owners, that could be a prohibitive barrier between them and a better understanding of their pup’s health.

Fortunately, MetLife Pet Insurance offers a Preventive Care plan add-on that’s designed to help you be proactive about your pet’s wellness. That includes reimbursement for dog DNA tests⁶ if purchased from your vet.¹ Plus, a Preventive Care add-on could help you afford other important procedures, like dental cleanings, vaccinations, and vet-prescribed food and supplements. To help you prepare for health conditions listed in your dog’s DNA test that they may develop, our standard pet insurance policy can also cover illnesses — including hereditary and chronic conditions.

Discovering your dog’s ancestry can be both fun and informative, and a MetLife Pet Preventive Care plan can help you do it. Learn more about how our insurance plans work, then continue your research by fetching a free custom quote!