🥇 ShopSavvy Best Picks

Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.

Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.

More to Explore

BEST PICKS

Best Dog DNA Tests for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 24th, 2024

🐶Ever wondered about your dog's breed mix, potential health issues, or unique ancestry? A dog DNA test can be a fascinating way to uncover loads of information about your furry friend. We've dug deep into various options to bring you the best dog DNA tests for 2024. From the all-around best to budget-friendly choices and tests that cater to specific needs, we've got you covered in this comprehensive guide.

🥇
Overall Best: Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test

Embark Breed & Health Kit - Dog DNA Test - Discover Breed, Ancestry, Relative Finder, Genetic Health, Traits, COI

The Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test is our top choice due to its thorough analysis of your dog's breed composition and extensive health screenings. With a breed database covering over 350 breeds, it stands out for its accuracy. On the health front, Embark screens for more than 230 genetic conditions, providing potentially lifesaving information for preemptive care. The results are easy to access through a user-friendly online platform, making it simple for owners to gain reliable insights into their dog's genetics and health.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$159.00 at Chewy.com

More Answers

Still curious about the Embark Dog DNA Test? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

🐾

What breeds can the Embark DNA test identify?

The Embark Breed & Health Kit is really helpful for figuring out your dog's breed mix. From our research, it can identify around 350 different dog breeds, so you can get a clear picture of your pup's family tree. Whether you're wondering if your dog has a bit of [Border Collie](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dborder%2Bcollie%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or perhaps a dash of [Golden Retriever](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgolden%2Bretriever%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), this test can help you find out. Apart from breed identification, the Embark DNA test also provides insights into your dog's genetic health. The manufacturer explains that it checks for over 250 genetic health risks and traits, which can be super useful for planning your dog's care or keeping an eye out for potential issues. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this kit won't tell you your dog's age. If finding out your dog's exact age is important to you, you might need to look into other services or consult your vet for that information. Despite this, many people find the Embark Kit worthwhile for understanding and planning around their dog's health needs and breed-specific habits. If age isn't a big concern for you right now, this kit could be a great tool to learn more about your furry friend's genetic background and health profile. For age estimation, a chat with your vet or considering specific tests might be a good idea alongside the Embark results. Overall, getting these insights can really help with tailoring your dog's care to their unique needs.

🐶

How long does it take to get Embark DNA test results?

Waiting to find out more about your pup can be a bit nerve-wracking. If you’re using the Embark DNA Test, specifically the Breed & Health Kit, you'll probably be curious about the timeline for getting your results. From what we've found, once the lab gets your dog's sample, it usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to get your results back. This is pretty standard, but keep in mind that things like shipping times and other factors at the lab can sometimes cause slight changes in the timeline. Just make sure you follow the instructions Embark gives you for collecting and sending in the sample to keep things running smoothly. Embark is known for doing more than just pinpointing your dog's breed mix. It actually analyzes over 350 breeds, even some rare ones, helping you learn more about your dog's ancestry. The manufacturer claims it's the most accurate breakdown out there, which is cool if your dog has a mix of breeds. Sometimes people are a bit surprised when results show breeds they didn’t expect, and if you see terms like 'American Village Dog' or 'Supermutt,' it might just mean your dog has a more mixed heritage. Besides breed info, Embark also checks for possible health conditions, so you can keep an eye on things early. Plus, you can potentially connect with your dog's relatives through the Embark database. Although some folks say the kit is a bit pricey, they generally feel that the insights you get into your dog’s health and family tree are worth it. So, if you're looking to dive deep into your dog's ancestry and health, Embark can be a good option. Just be prepared for that 2 to 4-week wait for your results!

🐾

What health conditions does the Embark DNA test screen for?

The Embark Breed & Health Kit can test your dog for over 250 genetic health conditions, according to the manufacturer's product information. This is great for pet owners who want to be proactive about their furry friend's health. By identifying possible hereditary issues early, you can work with your vet to craft a personalized care plan, which might include preventive steps. From what we've found, many pet owners find comfort in knowing more about their pet's health status. Some even use this information to tweak their dog's diet and lifestyle in hopes of preventing issues altogether. It's like having a bit of a crystal ball into your dog's genetic future, which can lead to early interventions and potentially a better quality of life for your pet. That said, the cost of the kit can be a sticking point for some folks. Some believe you might uncover similar health insights through regular vet visits or online research without spending as much. They feel that while the health information is thorough, it might not seem as necessary if you can get similar insights through your vet or other less expensive options. In the end, the value of the Embark Kit really depends on what you're looking for. If you value having detailed genetic insights and want to manage your dog's health proactively, this might be a good fit. But if you're okay with relying more on regular veterinary guidance or are looking to save, it might be worth comparing options.

View All Answers for

🥈
Runner-up: Wisdom Panel Premium

Wisdom Panel Premium Dog DNA Kit: Most Comprehensive with 265+ Health Tests, Identify 365+ Dog Breeds, 50+ Traits, Relatives, Ancestry, Genetic Diversity - 1 Pack

The Wisdom Panel Premium is an excellent runner-up, offering detailed breed identification and health screenings at a slightly lower price point than Embark. It claims an impressive accuracy rate of over 98%, with a breed database that includes more than 350 breeds. Users appreciate its speedy turnaround time, with results often available within three weeks. The test also includes easy registration and understandable explanations of genetic information, making it a solid alternative for comprehensive DNA insights.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$127.99 at Amazon

💸
Budget Pick: DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test

Dna My Dog - Canine Breed Identification Test Kit - at-Home Cheek Swab Kit - Personality Traits

For those on a budget, the DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test offers great value. While it features a smaller breed database of around 95 breeds, it provides essential breed identification and some health insights. This test is particularly suitable for owners mainly interested in uncovering their dog's breed without needing detailed health screenings. It's a cost-effective option, though its results may not be as detailed or accurate as higher-end tests.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$67.98 at Amazon

Best for Mixed Breeds: Embark DNA Test Breed Identification Kit

Embark Breed Identification Kit - Most Accurate Dog DNA Testing Kit - 99% Breed Ancestry Accuracy for Mixed Breed Dogs - Plus Relative Finder & Family Tree

The Embark DNA Test Breed Identification Kit is particularly advantageous for mixed-breed dog owners. It delivers a comprehensive breakdown of your pet’s breed composition and percentages, providing a clear genetic background. In addition, it screens for over 170 genetic health conditions and offers a social component where you can connect with other dog owners whose pets share DNA with yours. This test is more than just a breed identifier—it's a detailed tool for understanding your mixed-breed dog's genetic health and ancestry.

Lowest at Amazon

$109.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$78.38 at AliExpress

Best for Purebreds: Embark Purebred Dog DNA Test

Embark Purebred Kit - Dog DNA Test - Health, Traits, Genetic Diversity Score (COI), Breed Confirmation

For purebred dog owners, the Embark Purebred Dog DNA Test is the top recommendation. It not only validates your dog's purebred status but also gives in-depth information on genetic health risks, ancestry, physical traits, and inbreeding levels. With screenings for over 215 genetic health risks, it provides invaluable insights for monitoring and managing hereditary health issues. The test is user-friendly and delivers detailed results, making it an essential resource for the owners of purebred dogs.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$159.00 at Amazon

Get ShopSavvy

ShopSavvy is totally free and works on all popular phones and browsers