Direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing in dogs: interpretation and comprehension by the public

OBJECTIVES: The increasing popularity and widespread use of direct-to-consumer genetic tests in veterinary medicine has raised concerns similar to those previously reported in human medicine. In particular, limited access to genetic counselling and considerable variability in the tests offered, as well as how DNA test results are reported, have been identified as important challenges. As test results are only seldomly interpreted by qualified veterinarians/genetic counsellors, this study aimed to evaluate how well non-geneticist stakeholders, including dog owners, veterinarians, breeders and veterinary assistants, understand direct-to-consumer genetic test reports. In addition, we wanted to evaluate whether a specific educational tool, that is a short digital learning clip, could improve comprehension of direct-to-consumer genetic test results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey-based cross-sectional study with a follow-up component was conducted to evaluate participants' comprehension of direct-to-consumer genetic test reports before and after viewing a digital learning clip. RESULTS: Direct-to-consumer genetic test reports were frequently misinterpreted, regardless of education level (P = .41) or stakeholder category (P = .19). Furthermore, participants struggled to correctly identify the disease and propose appropriate breeding strategies based on the test results. The digital learning clip used in this study did not significantly improve the understanding of direct-to-consumer genetic test reports compared to the control group (P = .47). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These findings substantiate the concerns raised regarding direct-to-consumer genetic test report misinterpretation. As direct-to-consumer genetic tests are popular, large numbers of animals might be affected. Similar to human medicine, we suggest a more unified approach by trained genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists and standardised practices across laboratories to improve informed decision-making, breeding practices and ultimately promote animal welfare.