Which Dog DNA Test Is Most Accurate?

After years of talking about it, I finally splurged on dog DNA testing. If you’ve purchased your dog through a reputable breeder, you know exactly what you’ve got. But the rest of us are just dying to know the exact mix of our beloved fur baby. But how do you choose the best dog DNA test? Which dog DNA test is most accurate?

Why i chose embark

After reading reviews on all the major brands, I chose to use the Embark Breed + Health Kit. Of course we all want to know what breed(s) our dog is, but the health kit includes testing for 20+ physical traits, and over 200 genetic health risks. As a pet parent who’s tested for a few genetic abnormalities in the past when trying to reach a proper diagnosis, I liked the proactive approach of knowing if any worrisome skeletons were hiding in the hereditary closet.

You can read more about the sciency stuff that makes Embark the best choice for accuracy here. But suffice to say Embark’s database includes over 350 breeds, types, and varieties. And their test captures over 200,000 genetic markers, which is more than twice as much genetic info than their competitors. Embark can identify breeds making up as little as 5% of your dog’s DNA mix. It’s the best of the best!

In addition to all that data, Embark provides profiles of other dogs who share DNA with your dog. It’s like a doggie relative finder! As more and more dogs are tested, you will receive email updates for any newly identified relatives.

But it’s so pricey!

Let’s be frank. DNA testing your dog for nothing more than pure curiosity (this is most of us) falls into the frivolous spending category. But if you’re going to do it anyway, do it right. Get the best, most accurate test your money can buy. But do not pay Embark’s full retail price! They routinely offer $40 off, so it is worth the wait. If the sale’s not on, and you’re not into waiting games, use my referral to get your $40 off (though be aware purchasing through my referral link will reward me a $10 Amazon gift card). They also offer discounts on multiple kit purchases.

What to expect with your Embark DNA test

After you register the code on your Embark DNA kit, you’re ready to get started. Embark has a handy tutorial, including a video, on how to swab your dog for a DNA sample. Don’t panic; it’s simple. But there are some rules to keep in mind.

• Do not allow your dog eat OR DRINK anything for at least 30 minutes prior to swabbing.
• Swab your dog’s cheek pouches for 30-60 seconds. I recommend setting a timer as you begin, so you don’t misevaluate how long you’ve been swabbing. Err on the side of 60 seconds.
• Although your dog should not eat before hand, it may be a good idea to let them know a treat is coming their way. Having them a little drooly helps to collect a good sample.

After collecting your dog’s DNA sample, use the prepaid envelope included with your kit and drop it in the mail. You can track your return shipment to Embark on your account, and you’ll also receive email updates as your dog’s DNA sample moves through the process.

What about the results?

Once your dog’s DNA sample arrives at the Embark lab, expect the results to take 2-4 weeks. If you’ve selected a Breed + Health Kit, you’ll get the health results a couple days before the breed results (at least that’s what’s happened for me for each of the three dogs I’ve tested).

Your Embark Breed + Health results will include the following detailed information areas:

• Health
• Breed
• Traits
• Relatives

You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to dog health and wellness research by participating in a number of surveys. This is completely optional. In addition to a list of doggie relatives, if your dog is a mixed breed, you’ll have access to ‘Dogs Like Mine’ who share a similar breed mix to your dog. The higher the score, the more alike their ‘mix match.’

Bottom line

I’m thrilled with my Embark Breed + Health Kit purchase. There were surprises with all three of my dogs! Check out Affluent Dogs’ Embark DNA Results to learn more!

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