Purebred Dog Test: How To Tell If A Dog Is Purebred (6 Ways)

Do you have a four-legged family member who you think might be purebred? Or are you considering adding one to your home and want to make sure they’re the real deal? Either way, it’s important to know how to tell if a dog is truly purebred. Thankfully, there are seven reliable ways of doing so!

In this article, we’ll discuss each method in detail – from DNA tests to breed standards – so that no matter what kind of canine companion you have or are thinking about adopting, you can feel confident knowing their true lineage.

But first things first: why does it matter whether or not a pup is purebred?

Well for starters, understanding their genetics helps pet parents better understand their needs and temperament as well as any potential health issues they may face down the line.

Plus, owning an officially registered purebred offers bragging rights like being able to participate in shows and competitions specific to certain breeds!

So let’s get started on our journey of learning how to tell if a dog is purebred.

How to Tell if a Dog Is Purebred? 

The most reliable way to determine if a dog is purebred is to check its pedigree papers, which provide information about the pup’s family tree. However, if you do not have access to these papers or information about the dog’s health or DNA background, you can always consult with your vet or consider doing a professional DNA test, such as the one offered by Embark.

Trait	Description	Purebred Example	Mixed-Breed Example
Physical Characteristics	Purebred dogs have consistent physical traits	Labrador Retriever has a broad head, muscular body, and webbed feet	A Labradoodle may have a variety of physical traits depending on which breed(s) they are mixed with
Pedigree	Purebred dogs have a documented ancestry	The American Kennel Club (AKC) registers purebred dogs and provides pedigree certificates	Mixed-breed dogs do not have a documented ancestry
Breed Standards	Each purebred dog breed has a specific set of standards for appearance, temperament, and behavior	The AKC has established breed standards for all recognized purebred dog breeds	Mixed-breed dogs do not have established breed standards
Breeder	Reputable breeders breed only purebred dogs and can provide documentation	A reputable Golden Retriever breeder will have documentation for each puppy’s parents and ancestry	Puppy mills and backyard breeders may claim their dogs are purebred without any documentation
DNA Testing	DNA testing can confirm a dog’s breed ancestry	Companies such as Embark and Wisdom Panel offer DNA testing kits that can identify a dog’s breed ancestry	DNA testing is not always 100% accurate and may not be necessary if a dog exhibits consistent physical and behavioral traits of a certain breed
Behavior and Temperament	Purebred dogs often have predictable behavior and temperament traits	Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence, herding instincts, and loyalty	Mixed-breed dogs may have unpredictable behavior and temperament traits due to a combination of different breeds

Before delving into the details of how to determine if a dog is purebred, it’s important to understand the definition of “purebred”.

Purebred Definition – What Does Purebred Mean? 

A purebred is defined as a dog belonging to an officially recognized breed from one of the national kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC). In other words, they have to trace their lineage back in time and prove that all dogs in their ancestry were members of the same breed.

For example, if you buy a Border Collie or Labrador Retriever pup, then his parents, grandparents, etc., must also all be Labradors. It’s important to note that some breeds are mixed with others which means they won’t qualify for this definition so make sure you do your research before buying any pup.

So now that we’ve clarified what “purebred” means, let’s discuss seven effective methods for identifying if your furry friend might fit under this label…

6 Different Ways to Determine if Your Dog Is a Purebred

From physical characteristics and bloodlines to DNA testing, there are several methods available to help you determine whether or not your pup is indeed a purebred.

Read on to learn more about these seven ways to identify a purebred dog.

1. Arrange a DNA Test

If you’re unsure about your dog’s pedigree or health background, a DNA test is a reliable way to determine if your dog is purebred. There are several DNA testing options available, including consulting with your veterinarian or choosing a professional DNA testing service such as Embark Dog DNA Test. Online services offer a variety of DNA testing kits that you can order online and send off to a laboratory.

DNA tests can provide you with a lot of information about your dog’s breed and genetic health screening. Some DNA tests can even determine the breed of your dog by analyzing its DNA, identifying the percentage of each breed that your dog has. This can be helpful in determining whether your dog is purebred or mixed breed.

In addition to identifying breed, DNA tests can detect genetic mutations that cause certain diseases in dogs, such as hip dysplasia or Von Willebrand’s disease. Early detection of these mutations can help you take preventative measures to ensure your dog stays healthy.

Before selecting a DNA testing service, research the reputation and track record of the service. Consider the cost of the service and the type of information you want to obtain from the test.

Overall, DNA testing is reliable and effective in determining if your dog is purebred. It provides valuable information about your dog’s breed and health background, allowing you to make informed decisions about its care.

Read more here: What breed is my dog

2. Compare Your Dog to The AKC Official Breed Standards

Each dog breed is unique with its own specific physical or morphological characteristics, productive performance, or genetics for which they are known. For instance, the English Bulldog is known for its wrinkled face, short snout, and stocky build, while the Greyhound is known for its lean body and long legs, ideal for speed.

These characteristics are described in a breed standard, which includes pictures demonstrating specific features, personality types, and distinctive peculiarities. This standard serves as a guide for breeders and judges as they evaluate dogs in competitions, ensuring that each breed is represented according to its unique characteristics.

However, it is worth noting that purebred and pedigree dogs can be misclassified based on their color. For example, a dog may have a splotch of color  or white markings on its chest and feet that is not included in the breed standard, but this does not necessarily mean it is not purebred. In some cases, official breed standards may evolve over time to include previously excluded features, and it is important for breeders to stay up-to-date with these changes.

While comparing puppies with the breed standard is a good way to get a general idea of their breed, it can be misleading at times. Puppies may not fully develop their breed-specific characteristics until they are several months old, and even then, there may be variation within a breed due to genetic diversity. Therefore, it is important to consider multiple factors when determining a dog’s breed, including physical appearance, temperament, and behavior.

– Big List of breed standards –

3. Consult With Your Veterinarian.

Consulting with your veterinarian is a great way to determine if your dog is purebred. Not only can they identify a dog’s breed by physical characteristics, but they can also provide valuable insight into the dog’s medical history. They can tell you about any hereditary health issues that may be common in your dog’s breed and provide information on how to care for your dog’s specific needs.

In addition, expert veterinarians can give you guidance on the dog’s personality traits and tendencies. This information can be helpful in training your dog and understanding why they act in certain ways.

Despite the benefits of consulting with an experienced veterinarian, it is important to note that this method of identifying a dog’s breed is not foolproof. While they have seen many different dog breeds, even veterinarians can make mistakes when identifying a dog’s breed based on appearance alone. Therefore, it is recommended to also consider DNA testing or checking pedigree papers to confirm your dog’s breed.

4. Check The Pedigree Papers, Also Known as The Family Tree.

The pedigree papers, or family tree, of a dog can provide valuable information about its breed and background. This document is typically issued by a kennel club or breed registry, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or United Kennel Club (UKC). It records the lineage of a dog’s ancestors and can be used to determine if the dog is purebred.

If you have a purebred dog, its registration certificate will list the breed.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 200 dog breeds. You can uncover your dog’s type by taking a glance over personality traits and visual markers shown in the breed standard of AKC.

A pedigree paper will include detailed information about each ancestor, including their name, age, physical characteristics, and other relevant details. Additionally, it will include references to any championships or titles won by the ancestors. This information can help you get an idea of the quality of your dog’s bloodline and whether it meets the standards for a particular breed.

It is important to note that having pedigree papers does not necessarily mean that your dog is purebred. Some unscrupulous breeders may forge documents in order to pass off mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. It is therefore recommended to also consider other methods such as DNA testing or consulting with a veterinarian in order to ensure accuracy.

How to Read a Pedigree?

In this video you can learn how to easily read a dog’s pedigree:

5. Consult an Expert

A dog specialist or a professional breeder has a comprehensive insight into all dog species. They can guide you about your dog’s type, medical conditions, personality traits, and genetic issues.

Consult an expert to acquire all information and to know if your dog is purebred.

6. Predicting a Dog Breed Based on Physical Characteristics

Predicting a dog breed based on physical characteristics is a fascinating task that requires a keen eye for detail and knowledge of various dog breeds’ distinct characteristics. Many dog lovers enjoy testing their skills in identifying dog breeds based on their physical features.

Here are some key physical characteristics that can help you predict a dog breed.

1. Size: Size is one of the most obvious physical characteristics that can help identify a dog breed. Different breeds have different size ranges, from tiny Chihuahuas to massive Great Danes. Generally, small breeds weigh less than 20 pounds, medium breeds weigh between 20 and 60 pounds, while large breeds weigh over 60 pounds.
2. Coat Type: Another key physical feature to observe is the dog’s coat type. There are different types of coats, including curly, wavy, straight, and wire-haired. Some breeds have a single coat, while others have a double coat. For instance, the German Shepherd has a double coat that is thick and weather-resistant, while the poodle has a curly single coat that is hypoallergenic.
3. Color: The color of a dog’s coat can also be used to predict its breed. Some breeds have distinctive coat colors, such as the black and tan coat of a Doberman Pinscher or the brindle coat of a Boxer.
4. Ear Shape: The shape and position of a dog’s ears can also be a useful characteristic in identifying a breed. Some breeds have erect ears, such as German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, while others have droopy ears, like Basset Hounds and Beagles.
5. Tail Shape: A dog’s tail shape can also be a helpful feature in identifying its breed. Some breeds have straight tails, while others have curly, long, or docked tails. For example, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its docked tail, while the Greyhound has a long and sleek tail.
6. Facial Features: Facial features, including muzzle shape, eye shape, and head shape, can also provide clues to a dog’s breed. For instance, the Boxer has a short and square muzzle, while the Collie has a long and pointed muzzle. The Shar Pei has deep-set, wrinkled eyes, while the Chihuahua has large, round eyes.

Pedigree Papers: What They Tell You

If you’re looking to get a purebred dog, you’ve probably heard about pedigree papers. These papers contain valuable information about your dog’s lineage, and can give you insight into their potential temperament and health issues. Here’s what you need to know about pedigree papers and what they tell you:

1. The Dog’s Breed

Pedigree papers will always list the breed of your dog, as well as their specific variety if applicable. This can be important if you’re looking for a certain type of dog with specific characteristics, such as a hypoallergenic breed or a working dog.

2. The Dog’s Parents

Pedigree papers and registration papers will also list the dog’s parents, including their registered names and registration numbers. This information can give you insight into your dog’s potential temperament and health issues, as certain traits and conditions can be passed down through generations.

3. The Dog’s Grandparents and Great-grandparents

Pedigree papers can also list the dog’s grandparents and great-grandparents, depending on how far back the breeder has kept records. This can be useful if you’re looking for a dog with specific traits or characteristics that may be more common in certain bloodlines.

4. Health Testing

Many breeders will perform health testing on their dogs to check for genetic conditions that are common in the breed. Pedigree papers can list the results of these tests, giving you insight into your dog’s potential health issues.

5. Titles and Awards

If your dog’s parents or ancestors have competed in shows or trials, their titles and awards may be listed on their pedigree papers. This can be an indication of their quality and potential for certain activities or competitions.

6. Registration Information

Pedigree papers also include information about the dog’s registration with a kennel club or breed organization. This ensures that your dog is recognized as a purebred of their specific breed.

Overall, pedigree papers can be a valuable tool when choosing a purebred dog. They can give you insight into your dog’s potential traits, health issues, and even their competitive potential. Make sure to ask your breeder for pedigree papers and thoroughly review them before making a decision.

Now let’s explore another way in which one might confirm their pup is purebred: how to know if a dog is purebred via breed standards…

How to Know if a Dog Is Purebred via Breed Standards

Another way to determine if your pup is purebred is by comparing him to his breed standard. While the pedigree papers may tell us what our dog’s family tree looks like, the breed standard doesn’t just provide insight into which breeds make up a particular pooch – it also helps pet parents decide whether or not their canine cutie is indeed an official member of that given breed.

For example, certain characteristics like coat color and weight are often used to help determine if a pup belongs to a specific lineage. If you find that your doggo falls within these parameters for any given breed, then chances are high that he’s true-blue!

It’s important to note however, that even with all this information at hand, it can still be difficult sometimes to confirm whether or not your four-legged friend is in fact purebred without embarking on a DNA test journey.

Let’s review five ways we can use the breed standard when trying to figure out if our pup truly is one-of-a-kind:

• Check physical traits: Look for similarities between your dog and photos/descriptions listed in the breed standard. This will help you determine if your dog fits into the category of being officially recognized as part of said group.
• Look at temperament: Much like physical traits, studying behavioral patterns associated with various breeds can also reveal valuable info about where exactly your furry pal comes from – especially useful for rescue dogs who don’t have paperwork available!
• Avoid puppy mills: Knowing how to distinguish between real and fake breeding operations is key here – researching any potential breeder before bringing home pups from them should always be done first and foremost!
• Breed responsibly: Once you’ve found a reputable partner in crime (i.e., breeder) who follows strict guidelines set forth by organizations such as the AKC or CKC, ensure they themselves are following ethical practices when breeding so as not to contribute further towards puppy mills and other unethical activities.
• Do some research: Not only does reading up on different types of breeds give us insider knowledge about each respective lineages’ health issues and general care needs but it also provides us with great tips when looking around for potential new additions – helping us avoid potentially bad decisions down the road due solely on lack of preparation beforehand!

When armed with detailed knowledge regarding both pedigrees & standards alike, pet parents seeking out pureblooded companions now have two powerful tools at their disposal – ones which will come in handy throughout their entire search process regardless of whether they end up rescuing instead of buying or vice versa.

Papers may also play an equally important role here too depending upon circumstances; either way though, having access to such vital data points makes finding a reliable source much easier thus allowing us peace-of-mind going forward knowing that our precious puppers are safe & sound thanks largely in part due diligence taken prior to adoption day itself!

Dog Dna Tests: What They Can Reveal

While breed standards provide us with a great starting point when trying to determine if our pup is purebred, they only tell us so much. For those looking for even more detailed information about their canine’s lineage, Dog DNA tests are often the way to go!

Dog DNA testing labs have become increasingly popular as pet parents look for ways to learn more about their pup’s history and potential health risks associated with certain breeds in order to ensure that he or she has the best possible chance of living a long and healthy life.

With just a simple cheek swab or egg head collection from your furry friend, these genetic tests can reveal coat color, size, shape of head and body, density of coat patterns – all invaluable pieces of info needed when attempting to accurately identify what specific type of pooch we may be dealing with here at home.

The good news is there are many different types of dog breed test kits available on the market today – making it easier than ever before for pet parents like you & I alike to gain insight into our beloved four-legged friends’ family tree (and sometimes even uncover hidden surprises along the way!).

Some companies even offer multiple tests depending upon budget constraints; however no matter which route one decides to take here ultimately it should always lead back towards providing priceless peace-of-mind knowing that our pups are indeed who we think they are – plus any additional data points will certainly come in handy during future vet visits too boot!

The Pros and Cons of Pure Breeds Without Papers

For those considering adding a purebred pup to the family, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons of going this route.

On one hand, having two parents who are both of the same breed can increase the chances that your Border Collie or Labrador Retriever puppy will look just like you’d expect him or her to – assuming they were bred responsibly. Additionally, if you have access to their genuine pedigree papers then this further confirms that your dog is indeed a pureblood!

On the other hand though there also exists some potential risks associated with getting a pup without paperwork too – such as not knowing for certain which kind of dog he or she actually is (or even worse – could be).

In these cases, many pet owners opt instead for DNA tests in order to identify more precisely what type of canine companion may live amongst them; however testing does come with its own set of caveats since results from different labs often vary depending upon their individual databases referenced during analysis.

It’s also worth noting here that regardless of whether or not we have any official documentation declaring our pooch’s parentage history – it’s still wise to proceed cautiously when selecting a breeder no matter where you acquire your new friend from.

While good breeders will always strive towards producing healthy puppies with sound temperaments, bad breeders and backyard breeders alike may be less concerned about ensuring genetic diversity & subsequently putting dogs at risk for developing congenital illnesses down the line due to poor breeding practices.

For those seeking out ethical breeders specifically – make sure to ask plenty of questions before committing so that you feel confident in making an informed decision on behalf of your future furry best pal!

So while obtaining a purebred pup certainly has its merits, being aware of all aspects involved prior to taking action is essential in order to ensure everyone involved ends up happy & healthy long-term…and now let’s turn our attention towards exploring the benefits associated with opting for mixed breeds dogs next instead!

The Merits of a Mixed Breed Dog

While purebred dogs have their own unique set of characteristics, mixed breed dogs also have their own merits. Here are some of the benefits of owning a cross breed dog:

1. Health

Mixed breed dogs have a greater genetic diversity than purebred dogs, which means they may be less prone to inherited health problems. This doesn’t mean they’re immune to health issues, but it does mean they may have a lower risk of certain conditions.

2. Unique Appearance

Mixed breed dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and their appearance is often a combination of both their breeds. This means that your dog is likely to be one-of-a-kind, with a look that is uniquely theirs.

3. Personality

Mixed breed dogs can inherit the best qualities from both of their breeds, resulting in a unique and charming personality. They may have a mix of traits such as intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness that make them great companions.

4. Adaptability

Mixed breed dogs may be more adaptable to different environments and lifestyles than purebred dogs. This is because they have a wider range of genetic traits to draw from, making it easier for them to adjust to new situations.

5. Cost

Mixed breed dogs are often less expensive than purebred dogs. This is because purebred dogs often come with a premium price tag due to their rarity and perceived value. A mixed breed dog can give you all the benefits of a purebred without the high cost.

6. Reduced Breeding Demand

By adopting a mixed breed dog, you’re reducing the demand for purebred dogs, which can help reduce the number of dogs in shelters and improve overall animal welfare.

7. Rescue Opportunities

Many mixed breed dogs end up in shelters and rescue organizations, and by adopting one, you’re giving them a chance at a better life. Adopting a dog in need can be a rewarding experience, and you’ll be providing a loving home for a dog that deserves it.

Best Dog Dna Test: What to Look for

Criteria	Explanation
Accuracy	The accuracy of the test is crucial for the reliability of the results. A high-quality DNA test should be able to identify breeds and potential health risks with a high degree of accuracy. Look for tests that have been validated by independent scientific studies or have a proven track record.
Number of Breeds	A comprehensive DNA test should be able to identify a wide range of breeds to give you a better understanding of your dog’s ancestry. Some tests only identify a few breeds, while others can identify up to 250 or more.
Health Screening	Some DNA tests offer health screening for genetic diseases or conditions that are common in certain breeds. If you’re concerned about potential health issues, look for a test that includes health screening as part of the package.
Sample Collection	The process of collecting a DNA sample should be straightforward and stress-free for both you and your dog. Some tests require a cheek swab, while others may require a blood sample or saliva. Look for a test that is easy to administer and doesn’t require a lot of special equipment or training.
Price	The cost of a DNA test can vary widely depending on the level of service you require. While you don’t want to skimp on accuracy, you also don’t want to pay more than you need to. Shop around and compare prices before making a decision.
Turnaround Time	The time it takes to get results can vary widely depending on the company you choose. Some tests offer results in as little as two weeks, while others may take up to six weeks or more. If you’re anxious to get your results quickly, look for a test with a fast turnaround time.
Additional Features	Some DNA tests offer additional features such as breed certificates, ancestry trees, and interactive apps that allow you to connect with other dog owners. While these features may not be essential, they can add value to your overall experience.

When considering the best dog DNA test to get, there are several things to keep in mind. First of all, make sure that the test covers as many breeds as possible; ideally you want it to be able to identify your pup’s breed with a high degree of accuracy so that you can know for certain which type of canine companion you’ve got on your hands!

German Shepherds and purebred Labrador might have some unique features – but if your pooch has ancestry from multiple different sources then it may not always be easy to tell by looks alone.

So how do you go about getting a suitable dna test? Well – most reputable brands offering canine testing services will usually provide kits complete with instructions detailing exactly how to collect samples (in this case saliva or blood) quickly & easily before sending them away for analysis via secure mail carriers like FedEx/UPS etc.

After results come back – detailed information about exactly what kind of breeds makeup your happy puppy should follow too!

It is also important when choosing a company who performs these tests that they offer reliable customer service support and clear instructions regarding sample collection methods. This ensures that no matter what questions arise during the process – help is available every step of the way making it easier than ever to find out if your dog really is purebred or mixed-breed without papers at home!

Knowing precisely which breeds exist within any one particular pooch’s lineage can be incredibly useful when trying to figure out why he or she behaves in certain ways and needs certain types of care over time.

It pays dividends both now and later down the line when having access to such valuable insights into Fido’s genetic heritage gives us an even better chance at keeping our furry friend healthy & content throughout life!

How to Prove a Dog Is Purebred Without Papers

It can be difficult to prove that a dog is purebred without papers, but there are several ways owners can help determine whether their pup is of pure blood. Here are some steps you can take to figure out if your addition to the family has an extra-special pedigree:

1. Appearance – One of the most obvious ways to determine whether a dog is purebred is by its appearance. Every breed has specific characteristics that distinguish it from others, such as coat color, length, and texture, eye shape and color, nose shape, and body shape. Research the breed and compare the dog’s physical features with the breed standard. While this method is not foolproof, it can help to provide an initial indication of whether a dog is purebred or not.
2. Ask around – Talk with other people who own similar looking dogs and find out what kind of background their pet might have – it’s possible someone knows something about where the animal in question came from!
3. Investigate local resources – Check with local rescue organizations or shelters; they may be able to give you information on the history of your canine friend before he/she ended up in your care.
4. Contact the American Kennel Club (AKC) – The AKC is the best way to tell if your dog is purebred without papers since their records go back decades so if there are registered ancestors then chances are high that yours too will qualify for recognition!
5. DNA testing – With advancements in DNA testing, it is now possible to determine a dog’s breed without papers. DNA testing can be conducted through a simple blood or saliva test, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. These tests can be expensive, but they provide an accurate result and can identify the specific breeds present in a dog’s DNA.
6. Professional opinions – Another way to prove a dog is purebred without papers is to seek the opinion of a professional, such as a veterinarian or a breed expert. These professionals have experience working with different breeds and can often identify whether a dog is purebred or not.

In sum, these tips should provide helpful insight into whether your pup really does come from a long line of purebreds or not – plus even if it turns out Fido isn’t quite as regal as originally thought at least now you know exactly what kind of companion he/she truly is!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to determine if a dog is purebred. Examining its physical characteristics, asking for pedigree papers, and DNA testing are all effective methods. Keep in mind that even if a dog is not purebred, it can still make a wonderful pet.

Mixed-breed dogs often have fewer health problems than purebred dogs and can be just as loving and loyal.

When adopting a dog, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and what type of dog would be the best fit for you. Purebred dogs can come with certain traits and health issues that may not be a good fit for every owner.

Mixed-breed dogs, on the other hand, can offer a unique combination of traits and personalities that make them a great choice for many families.

By using these methods to determine if a dog is purebred, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect furry companion for you and your family.

I highly acknowledge the time and effort you put into reading the article. I hope this adds value to you and your puppy’s life.

P.S. If you require any further details on the specified topic of how to tell if a dog is purebred, feel free to contact me!

Read also:

• How to do a DNA test on a dog
• What does a dog DNA test tell you
• What breed is my dog
• How accurate are dog DNA tests