Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Should I get a puppy if its parents are inbred? What are the risks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | spayed | 1 month and 29 days old | 10 lbs

Hello! We are picking up our new puppy in two days - a minilong hair dachshund - and I just discovered last night through looking at the parents pedigrees (I am new to this, and just realized I could access these on the breeders site) that the mother of the litter is the granddaughter of the father. I have been up all night reading about inbreeding and line breeding and am extremely nervous about this now. I don't know what to do. Is this really a terrible thing and should we reconsider getting

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2017

In-breeding over time can cause certain characteristic traits and genetic qualities (including defects) to be selected for that are undesirable. However it is unsure what exact characteristic traits will predominate in each individual puppy and to what degree. I think it is fair to ask if this line of pedigree has any genetic defects that you should be concerned about that could possibly pass on to Mabei, to make this breeder a bit more transparent in information and also hold them accountable for informing you as a concerned potential adoptee. Also another great tool is the DNA genetic testing (the blood test that is done through a vet, not the cheek swab one which is highly inaccurate) which will give you a list of genetic predispositions and abnormalities that Mabei currently has so that you are aware from the very beginning of any disease processes she will be vulnerable to developing later in life. In-breeding is not what we want to see done in any situation, because it creates all kinds of genetic nightmares in most situations and does not speak highly of this breeder in my professional opinion. I hope this helps and best wishes on your decision making when it comes to adopting this pet. Best wishes and take care.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    My personal opinion is yes to reconsider getting this puppy. Inbreeding carries several risks and should never be encouraged. I know there is a generation between the parents but it is not the way to breed puppies and I would be very suspicious about getting a puppy from this breeder.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?
Frustrated trying to tell if your rat is pregnant from a photo? A Petco vet explains why a physical exam or sonogram is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
I think my pet is pregnant. How can a vet confirm it for sure?
Is Candy pregnant? A professional vet explains how to confirm pregnancy, as photos alone aren't enough. Discover key signs and what to look for in your pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored