#DogDNA

[infiniteheartsdogsanctuary]

✨ Discovering Family Connections Through Embark DNA ✨

Ever wondered if your dog has hidden family ties? At Infinite Hearts, we recently discovered something truly amazing: three of our beloved pups—Pepe, Penny, and Jolene—are actually cousins! And our newest sanctuary dog, Lucky, is distantly related to Jolene. 🐾

Thanks to Embark DNA (which we chose to affiliate with because we love their tests!), we’ve uncovered some fascinating connections among our dogs that span states, generations, and breeds. Each of our pups has been tested through Embark, and it’s always exciting to dive into their unique genetic stories.

🧬 Our Doggie Family Tree 🧬 Embark DNA offers so much more than just breed info—it connects dogs with potential relatives too. When we tested Pepe, Penny, and Jolene, we found they share a common ancestor! And with Lucky’s recent test, we learned he has a distant genetic link to Jolene, adding to the love and connection among our sanctuary pups.

🐶 Meet the Pack:

Pepe: A 3-year-old Pomsky with blue Merle fur, cousin to Penny and Jolene, and our resident cuddle bug.

Penny: Our 3.5-year-old Pom-Chi-Poo-Super Mutt and the heart of Infinite Hearts, who’s also family to Pepe and Jolene.

Jolene: A 6-month-old Great Dane with blue Merle fur, linked to Pepe and Penny and now distantly related to Lucky!

Lucky: A mix of Pitbull, Bully, and American Staffordshire Terrier with brindle spots, who shares a 3% genetic connection with Jolene, making him a distant cousin!

💡 How Common Are Doggie Family Ties? While it’s rare, it’s not impossible for dogs from different states and ages to have distant family ties. Here’s why:

National Breeding Networks: Many breeders are part of larger networks that connect dogs across states, so distant relatives can end up in far-apart regions.

Ancestral Lineage: Dogs have deep ancestry, just like us, and shared lineage markers can reveal connections many generations back.

Genetic Traits: Certain coat patterns, like Jolene and Pepe’s blue Merle and Lucky’s brindle spots, are genetic markers that sometimes show up in distant relatives.

Why We Love Embark DNA 🧬 We’re thrilled to be an Embark affiliate because we genuinely love how their testing gives us a closer look at our dogs’ unique backgrounds. It’s not just about breed identification; it’s about uncovering the connections that make each dog truly special. If you’re curious about your own dog’s family tree, health markers, or breed traits, we highly recommend trying Embark. 🐕💕

🔗 Check Out the Embark DNA Test Kit If you’re interested in learning about your pup’s story, try Embark for yourself! Embark Dog DNA Test Kit

✨ Family connections are everywhere, even in the most unexpected places! We’re grateful for each discovery that brings us closer to our dogs and the journey we’re on together at Infinite Hearts. 🌈

Feel free to share this post with fellow dog lovers who are curious about their own furry family trees! 🐾

[doggiedayoutnc]

DNA is Cool!

Meet Pepe, Penny, and Jolene: Discovering the Family Ties Between Our Furry Friends! 🐾

🐾

Did you know that dogs can have unexpected family ties just like humans? At Doggie Day Out NC and Bark n Ride Rentals, we recently discovered that our three beloved fur babies—Pepe, Penny, and Jolene—are actually cousins! Thanks to some cool science from Embark DNA (not sponsored, just genuinely cool!), we've uncovered some delightful family connections that have brought these pups even closer together.

🧬 A Paw-some DNA Discovery!

So, how do three dogs from different backgrounds end up being related? It all starts with DNA. Embark DNA testing offers a peek into your dog's ancestry, breed mix, and potential relatives. When we got the results for Pepe, Penny, and Jolene, we were in for a big surprise—they share a common ancestor! Though they come from different places, their DNA revealed that they are cousins.

Here's the breakdown:

Pepe: A charming 3-year-old male Pomsky with striking blue Merle fur. He's got a spunky personality and loves to cuddle, making him the perfect little companion.

Penny: Our sweet 3.5-year-old girl, Pom-Chi-Poo-Super Mutt; full of love. Penny's gentle nature has been the heart and soul of Infinite Hearts Animal Sanctuary, and now we know she shares a genetic link with her playmates.

Jolene: A 6-month-old female Great Dane with beautiful blue Merle fur. She's not only growing fast but also growing closer to her cousins!

Despite coming from different places, these three share a significant portion of their genetic makeup. It's like finding out your best friend from another state is actually your cousin—such an exciting and heartwarming discovery!

🌍 The Science Behind the Bonds: What Makes Them Cousins?

The concept of "dog cousins" works similarly to how we think of human cousins. Dogs share relatives through their ancestral lineages. While humans might trace their family tree back through grandparents or great-grandparents, dogs' family ties are rooted in their breed origins and the genetic markers they inherit from their parents.

Think of it like this: Pepe, Penny, and Jolene all have distant relatives in their family tree that connect them. Somewhere back in history, their great-great-great-grandparents were related. This makes them cousins, even if they were born in different places and have different parents!

Embark DNA identifies these shared markers and can pinpoint relations as close as siblings or as distant as extended cousins. For Pepe, Penny, and Jolene, they share enough genetic markers to be considered cousins! Imagine how wild it is that these three canines, from different places and backgrounds, have a family connection that goes back generations!

🧠 Fun Science Facts About Dog DNA

Genetic Markers Are Key: Just like humans, dogs have genetic markers in their DNA that can tell a lot about their ancestry. These markers are like little clues that show us not only what breeds a dog is made up of but also if they have relatives nearby!

Dogs Have More Genes Than Humans: Did you know that dogs have around 20,000 genes? That’s a lot of room for interesting traits, behaviors, and even hidden relatives to pop up!

The Mystery of Coat Color: Jolene and Pepe both have stunning blue Merle coats. This unique pattern is controlled by a specific gene, and since they are cousins, it’s likely they inherited this gene from a shared ancestor! Penny, although not blue Merle, carries the same lineage that ties her to these two beauties.

Why Family Matters: Dogs, like humans, benefit from family connections. They tend to play better, communicate more effectively, and can even have better emotional health when they have family around. We see it every day here at Doggie Day Out NC!

🐕 Family Fun at Doggie Day Out NC and Bark n Ride Rentals

Whether they're playing in our dog park, enjoying a bark-tastic car ride with Bark n Ride Rentals (check out barknriderentals.vip), or just lounging around at the sanctuary, Pepe, Penny, and Jolene’s newfound family bond adds an extra layer of joy to everything they do. Their bond isn't just about shared DNA—it's about the connection and love they share every day.

🚗 Take Your Pup on an Adventure!

Pepe, Penny, and Jolene are always up for an adventure, and we know your dog would love one too! With Bark n Ride Rentals, you can rent a pet-friendly vehicle that’s perfect for road trips, daily excursions, or even a quick ride to the park. Visit doggiedayoutnc.com to learn more about our services and start planning your next dog-friendly outing today!

🐶 Join Our Dog-Loving Community!

Follow us on Tumblr and Facebook to keep up with our furry family, get tips on dog care, and see how our community of pet lovers is growing every day. We’re more than just a sanctuary and rental service—we’re a family. And now, thanks to Embark DNA, our family ties are stronger than ever.

Feel free to share this amazing story and spread the word about the incredible bonds that connect us all, both human and canine! 🐾

[doggozila]

(via HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR DOG'S FUR! - Doggozila)

[siarczek]

Reference sheet commission for @dogdna!

[fallingsatellive]

I'm a schizophrenic house cat and ive actually never heard the term clinical lycanthropy before, I just kinda assumed m-shifting came with physically feeling your body change, though I'm not sure what to even do with this info lol

I'm not schizophrenic nor do I have clinical lycanthropy, but if it will help, I summon my psychology expert friend @dogdna to define and explain the term/diagnosis.

[amyshojai]

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture #dogdna #training #socialization #dogdnatests

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture Dog DNA tests today are popular because it influences both looks and behavior. Some dog breeds are known for specific tendencies. But socialization and training, and even mom-dog’s nurturing influence, also impact dogs. Some dogs have to deal with a “ruff” reputation based entirely on dog dna and what breed they are – or just look like. Pit Bulls…

[aixelsyd13]

So, we did the @embarkvet #DogDNA test for Diogee! I think @bcarroll_13 got a successful swab tonight. 🤣 Diogee was NOT a fan. She's obviously some kind of black lab mix. Any guesses on her mix before we get the results back? I am guessing Rottweiler, or maybe even Doberman pincher or German Shepherd. She has a super loud bark! She is such a sweet girl, it will be neat to know what all makes her up. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cgak7e3N3BX/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[conspicuous-dog-lover]

...besides awesome? The most commonly asked is what breed are you? What do you think? . . . @cashewdawg . . #rescuedog #dogdna #mutt #heinz57 #sheepdog #mysterymutt #lovemutt #muttpeople #muttrescue #muttparents #shaggydog #dawg #rescuedawg #pupper #puplife #furbabay #rescuedog (at Highlands Hollow Brewhouse)

[siarczek]

Sketch commission for @dogdna!

[humboldtiihognoseclover]

@stillflight @ochremutt @dogdna @dogdenial @koifrog @smol-paw and any of my online besties 💛

ALL MY FELLAS!!! 🗣️🗣️🗣️‼️🦅🦅🗣️🗣️🗣️

Make YOU using THIS PICREW and tag 5 people!!!!

Yep, it's a chain!!!

@eyesofrhodochrosite @taaaaaaawnyfrogmouth @mikebeanz @ofthefrogs @kredena-dark

[offroadtucson]

It wasn't what we were thinking at all. The DNA results for JP are in.⁠⠀ Agree? Disagree? Confused? ⁠⠀ @embarkvet #DogDNA #mixedbreed #mutssville #supermutt #traildog https://www.instagram.com/p/CF7a9Apj_Pq/?igshid=zhb3w14houp2

[fallingsatellive]

Ooh I really like these. So much turquoise.

Hold on I just learned you can re-generate them and I love these more

You know I gotta tag @dogdna @ochremutt and @ciarashoggoth

generate a colour palette from your name and url here ♪(´ε｀ )

these actually slap ngl

tagging @catfoodsminmo @aztarion @fortzancudo @perilegs @broscahawke @lowgardn @steppesliver @trashbaby1996 @rmilkies @dietgabbana

AND ANYONE THAT WANTS TO 🫶🏼

[double-dare-designs]

My parents had Kobe’s DNA done. We guessed on his lineage and my daughter did pretty good on guessing. He is Staffordshire Terrier, Lab, Aussie, Rottweiler, Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu. #rescuedogsofinstagram #dogdna #dogsofinstagram 
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7EYVmSBxqk/?igshid=d49c8ccw2u4i

[nastyvegans-blog]

🐶The whole time we were thinking they came from the same mom & dad! 🐶 Isabella is 25% Chow Chow 25% German Shepard 50% Breed group which is herding, terrier and hound! 🐶Now we are super surprised with Chiky! She's 25% German Shepard 12.5% Canadian Eskimo Dog 12.5% Chow Chow 12.5% Miniture poodle 37.5% Breed groups which is companion, hound, herding. 🤯 @wisdompanel was so worth it! #NastyVegans #VeganDogs #Wisdompanel #DogDna #MixedDog #ChowChow #GermanShepard #MiniturePoodle #CanadianEskimoDog #DogMom #DogParents #VeganDogsOfInstagram #DogsOfInstagram #DogOfTheDay #CuteDog #AdoptDontShop https://www.instagram.com/p/BtZk-jNgUXl/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=18h3pqhyyp4a0

[2travelingdogs]

Corn Dog Fan Club

Monday’s Dog Blog Corn Dog Fan Club It’s time to guess Brickle’s breeds! #rescued #dogdna

This is Peanut Butter Brickle. Over my 13 years, I have amassed quite a following for my corn dog tail. Yes. Quite a following. Probably because it is such a mystery. And I am such a mystery. I like being a mystery. We all are, really. And it’s good to have a bit of mystery about us. Others can ask us questions about ourselves. And we can talk about our family and where we are from and what we…