Mars Veterinary National Mutt Census FAQs
What is the National Mutt Census?
The first ever National Mutt Census is designed to get a snapshot of the make-up of nation’s mixed breed dog population. In addition to identifying the breeds that make up the estimated 38 million mixed breed dogs in the U.S., it will explore factors, such as: dog weight and size; feeding and exercise habits; the proportion of mixed breed dogs adopted from shelters; plus the history of dogs’ health.
What do you hope to get out of the National Mutt Census?
The National Mutt Census will be the most comprehensive analysis of the nation’s mixed breed dog population ever conducted. Among the many insights it will offer, the findings may provide researchers a better understanding of the types and frequency of diseases among this group of dogs that could ultimately help determine health risk factors for certain breed mixes.
Has a Mutt Census like this ever been done before?
The National Mutt Census is the first of its kind. Never before has a Census been conducted among a mixed breed dog population on a national level – in the
How can I participate in the Census?
Participation in the National Mutt Census is easy. Dog owners can purchase a Wisdom Panel® Insights™ test to identify the breed history of their mixed breed dog – then they’re encouraged to answer a brief five-minute online Census survey, which asks them questions about the dog’s size and weight, his feeding and exercise habits, whether he was adopted from a shelter – as well as questions about the dog’s health.
Do I need to purchase a Wisdom Panel® test to participate in the Census?
Anyone can participate in the National Mutt Census. While all responses will help to paint a picture of the nation’s mixed breed dog population, only data from owners that have tested their dog using Wisdom Panel will be included in the “official” Census findings to ensure its accuracy.
Can I participate in the Census if I already purchased a Wisdom Panel® test and know my dog’s breed ancestry?
Anyone can participate in the National Mutt Census – including users of the Wisdom Panel test who already know their dog’s breed ancestry. Users just need to enter their dog’s Test Sample ID# when completing the Census survey to ensure their data is included in the “official” Census findings.
Can I register multiple dogs in the Census?
We want to capture data from as many mixed breed dogs as possible to help us get an accurate snapshot of the nation’s mutt population. So we encourage owners that have more than one dog to register all of them in the Census. Simply click on the ADD ANOTHER DOG button when ready.
Can I still participate in the Census if I have a purebred dog?
The National Mutt Census is designed to capture data on mixed breed dogs only.
