In the Literature
Bennett NE, Johnson EA, Gray PB. Veterinary care providers recognize clinical utility of genetic testing but report limited confidence in interpreting direct-to-consumer results. Am J Vet Res. 2025;86(2):ajvr.24.09.0265. doi:10.2460/ajvr.24.09.0265
The Research …
Direct-to-consumer (D2C) genetic tests include testing for crossbreed composition, coat type and other appearance traits, and health. Many commercial genetic testing companies do not document validation—either in the science of a test or the applicability of specific tests for individual patients.1,2 Clinicians typically lack training in interpreting genetic test results, genetic counseling, and recognizing breed predisposition to disease or disease-predisposing body types.3
Some DNA tests identify disease-predisposing variants common in purebred and crossbreed populations that cause clinical disease (eg, SOD1 degenerative myelopathy) in only a small subset of breeds or crossbreeds,4 possibly leading to inappropriate medical decisions and improper care.2 Several commercial companies offer genetic diversity assessments based on individual patient homozygosity, but these do not address breed-wide genetic diversity or desirable homozygosity based on selection for positive traits and disease prevention.5
Results of a survey of 218 veterinary care providers showed that while most providers understand the clinical value of D2C genetic tests, many lack confidence in interpreting the results for pet owners or assessing the validity of the findings. Greater confidence was noted in assisting owners with genetic test results for dogs than for cats.
… The Takeaways
Key pearls to put into practice:
Genetic tests can help with diagnosis and treatment plans, but owners usually need assistance in choosing a commercial genetic test and/or understanding test results.
Genetic testing results must be evaluated based on published validation and applicability of results to the breed of the patient.
Clinicians typically lack training in genetic counseling or assessing hereditary disease predispositions in purebred or crossbreed patients. Commercial genetic testing companies are in an ideal position to offer this support to clinicians (and thereby assisting mutual clients).
Companion animal genetic testing is an unregulated field that needs standardized guidelines for best practices.6
You are reading 2-Minute Takeaways, a research summary resource presented by Clinician’s Brief. Clinician’s Brief does not conduct primary research.