Yesterday, this eagerly-anticipated messagearrived in my email inbox:
Dear Julia,
Are you ready to uncover the breeds that make your dog truly one-of-a-kind? Your wait is now over!
We have completed the DNA analysis for Magnus using our state-of-the-art breed detection process, comparing his breed makeup to over 225+ different breeds.
Magnus’s comprehensive report is being printed. Please allow several business days for delivery. The report will document the breeds we detected, offer breed-based behavioral profiles and provide insight into Magnus’s breed-driven physical attributes.
Anxious for your dog’s results? We are excited to offer you online DNA results for faster reporting.
Naturally, that’s the option I selected. And here’s what I learned when I opened the PDF:
It’s no secret that I adore all breeds in the extended bully family, so it’s a special treat to learn that Magnus’s DNA incorporates no fewer than four of them. Still, I would never have guessed Bull Terrier – but now I kind of see it in the slope of his snout.
But that’s not all. There are a few other strains in there as well: Magnus is 4.59% Collie; 3.16% Affenpinscher; 3.06% American Bulldog; 2.68% Basenji; and 2.64% Weimaraner.
That last makes sensedue to Magnus’s blue-gray coat and matching eyes, and his aristocratic bearing. The others are something of a surprise – you might even say they’re out of left field. Lassie is the last dog I expected to be a distant cousin of my Magnus! And I must say I’m shocked that there’s no mastiff in Magnus, considering his tendency to drool.
But whatever his DNAis or is not, Magnus is awonderful dog who turns heads and attracts admirers wherever he goes. I’m particularly proud of how calm and gentle he is around small children, like Morgan, my neighbor’sdarling 4-year-old boy.
In the end, he’s exactly what he always looked like: A Magnus. A proud North American Shelter Hound. And truly one-of-a-kind.
Thanks, Wisdom Panel! We’ll be sure to visit your Facebook fan page.
OK, Dogsters – bring on the comments. I’m eager to hear your feedback!
Yesterday, this eagerly-anticipated messagearrived in my email inbox:
