Not all DNA test kits are created equal, and it’s important to choose one that will give accurate results. This blog, 7 Best DNA Test Kits For Dogs – Buying Guide, outlines the different types of DNA test kits for dogs and reviews some of the best ones on the market. By understanding what to look for in a DNA test kit for dogs, you’ll be able to decide which one is right for you.
DNA Test Kits For Dogs At A Glance
Why You Should Get A DNA Test Kit
Have you been wondering what your dog’s ancestry might be? If so, you’re not alone! Genetic testing of dogs is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason – not only is it fun to find out, but it can also alert you to potential health issues your dog might face. Many dog breeds are predisposed to certain inherited health and behavioral characteristics just by means of their breed.
What to Look for When Buying A DNA Test Kit
Everyone has different preferences on what is important or not when deciding on a DNA Test Kit, but I want to offer my opinion on some of the most important things that a DNA Test Kit should have.
Look For A Kit That Tests For the Items You Want
You want to be sure to choose the test for what you want to test. This might seem logical but can often be overlooked. If you want to find the breed of dog you have, you want to be sure the test includes that. If you want to test for food sensitivities, look for that type of testing.
Result Time
The time it takes to get the DNA test results can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Know the time expectation to avoid disappointment.
Price
Consider the price of the test. Be sure to be paying only for the test results you are interested in getting.
There is no sense in buying a test that includes extra data that doesn’t matter to you. You may be able to find a test that is less expensive that only addresses your needs.
DNA Test Kit Product Reviews
Embark Breed Identification Kit
Best For Breed Identity
Features:
- Tests Over 220,000 Genetic Markers
- 350+ Breeds
- Canine Relative Finder
- Results: 2-4 Weeks
- Upgrading Available
- Steps:
- Activate
- Cheek Swab
- Send
Pros
- Ease Of Use
- 350+ Breeds
- 220,000 Genetic Markers
Cons
- Basic Information
- Goes Back Just Two Generations
A Few Words
Embark dog dna test is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to identify their dog’s breed. With over 220,000 genetic markers and 350+ breeds available, the Breed Identification Kit is one of the most comprehensive tools on the market.
The canine relative finder will help you to find your dog’s closest relatives in seconds. Upgrades are available, and a new swab is not needed.
Embark uses research-grade data and is partnered with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Results come in 2-4 weeks.
When choosing this kit, keep in mind this is for breed identity only and not health issues.
Wisdom Panel Essential
Best Upgrade Ability
Features:
- Breed and Medical Traits
- 350+ Breeds & Varieties
- Screening for 25+ Medical Complications
- 35+ Trait Tests
- 98% Accuracy
- 1 or 2 Count Pack Option
- Results: 2 – 4 Weeks
- Steps:
- Swab
- Send in Prepaid Shipping Box
Video: How To Swab Your Dog For A Wisdom Panel DNA Test
Pros
- Breed 350+
- 25+ Medical Complications
- 35+ Traits Test
Cons
- Customer Service Lacking
- Upselling
A Few Words
The Wisdom Panel Essential dog DNA test is designed to help you learn more about your pooch’s genetic history, screening for 25+ medical conditions and 35+ trait tests.
You will receive results in 2-4 weeks after mailing it in the prepaid shipping box.
Just an FYI, the company does try to upsell along the way.
5Strands Pet Food & Environmental Intolerance Test
Best For Sensitivities
Features:
- Test With Hair Strands
- Tested for Sensitivity to 380 Pet Food Ingredients & Environmental Items
- Proteins
- Fruits & Veggies
- Grains
- Dairy
- Synthetic Additives
- Fabrics
- Cleaning Supplies
- Grasses
- Chemicals
- Intolerance Not Allergy Test
- Steps:
- Register
- Collect Hair Sample
- Implement Changes In Diet and Environment
- Results: 5 – 7 day
Video: How Do I Collect My Pet’s Hair Sample
Pros
- 380 Ingredients and Items Tested
- Fast Results
Cons
- Not An Allergy Test
A Few Words
5Strands Pet Food and Environmental Intolerance hair strand test is designed to identify your pet’s sensitivities to pet food ingredients and environmental items.
By testing for intolerance and sensitivities, you can help ensure that your furry friend is getting the nourishment they need and avoiding any potential health problems.
This is a sensitivity test, not an allergy test.
Wisdom Panel Premium
Best With Vet Consultation
Features:
- 98% Accuracy
- 1 or 2 Count Pack Option
- Screens For:
- 350 Breeds
- Over 200 Genetic Conditions
- 35 Trait Tests
- Steps (Read Complete Instructions With Kit Before Starting)
- Swab Both Swabs
- Activate Test
- Write Code On Label
- Mail-in Prepaid Shipping Box
- Results: 2-4 Weeks
- Free 15-minute Call With A Licensed Vet To Discuss Notable Health Findings
Pros
- Vet Consult
- Easy To Use
- Breeds, Genetics, and Traits
Cons
- Bristle Swabs
A Few Words
The Wisdom Panel Premium has 98% accuracy, and the 1 or 2-count pack option makes it convenient for those who want to test two dogs.
With over 200 genetic conditions, 35 traits, and 350 breeds included in the testing panel, you’re sure to find the information you’re looking for.
Plus, the step-by-step instructions make the process as simple as possible.
A 15-minute call with a licensed veterinarian to discuss notable health issues is also included in the price of the kit.
Embark Dog DNA Test Kit
Most Genetic Markers
Features
- 1, 2, and 3 Count Option
- Tests Over 230,000 Genetic Markers
- 350+ Dog Breeds
- 210+ Health Risks
- 35+ Physical Traits
- Relative Finder
- Steps:
- Activate
- Swab
- Send in Prepaid Envelope
- Results: 2-4 Weeks
Video: Embark, More Than A Dog DNA Test
Pros
- 1, 2, & 3 Count Option
- Over 230,000 Genetic Markers
- Ease of Use
Cons
- Wait Time
A Few Words
With the Embark Dog DNA Test, with over 230,000 genetic markers, you’ll be able to determine your dog’s Breed and Genetic Ancestry.
You’ll also be able to discover physical traits and health risks specific to your dog’s breed.
Plus, with 350+ dog breeds and 210+ health risks, you’ll be able to keep your pup healthy and safe.
Embark uses research-grade data and is partnered with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
You have the option to choose either a 1, 2 or a 3 count of dog DNA test kits.
Embark | Dog DNA Test for Purebred Pets
Best For Known Breeds
Features:
- Purebred Pets
- 220,000 Genetic Markers
- 210+ Genetic Health Risks
- 35 Physical Traits
- COI Graph
- Canine Relative Finder
- Steps:
- Activate
- Swab
- Results: 2 – 4 Weeks
Pros
- COI Graph
- Ease Of use
Cons
A Few Words
A comprehensive test, Embark dog DNA test that will tell you everything you need to know about your pet’s ancestry, physical traits, and genetic health risks.
With 220,000 genetic markers and 210+ genetic health risks, you’ll be able to be informed of possible health conditions and make better decisions for their long-term health and wellbeing.
The COI graph will show you how closely your dog’s breed aligns with other dogs of their breed, which is useful for identifying any health risks.
Plus, Embark’s Canine Relative Finder will help you find close relatives for testing.
Embark uses research-grade data and is partnered with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Comparison Table
| Embark Breed Identification Kit | Wisdom Panel Essential | 5Strands Pet Food & Environmental Intolerance Test | Wisdom Panel Premium | Embark Dog DNA Test Kit | Embark | Dog DNA Test for Purebred Pets | |
 |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Genetic Markers | 220,000 | Not Stated | — | Not Stated | 230,000 | 220,000 |
| Breed Identity | 350+ | 350+ | No | 350+ | 350+ | — |
| Health | No | 25+ | No | 200+ | 210+ | 210+ |
| Traits | No | 35+ | No | 35+ | 35+ | 35+ |
| Sensitivities | No | No | 380 | No | No | No |
| COI | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Relative Finder | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Accuracy | Not Stated | 98% | Not Stated | 98% | Not Stated | Not Stated |
| Sample | Swab | Swab | Hair | Swab | Swab | Swab |
| Package Count | 1 | 1 or 2 | 1 | 1 or 2 | 1, 2, or 3 | 1 |
| Price | Price Click Here | Price Click Here | Price Click Here | Price Click Here | Price Click Here | Price Click Here |
FAQ’s for Dog DNA Test Kits
What are the benefits of using a Dog DNA test kit?
The benefits of using a dog DNA test kit vary depending on the individual dog’s ancestry and health conditions but may include identification of genetic health issues and ancestry information that could lead to family discovery.
What are the different things to test for with a Dog DNA test kit?
There are many items that can be tested with a dog DNA test kit, depending on the results that you are looking for and the kit you purchase.
For example, if you want to determine whether your dog is purebred or not, you would test for specific breeds of dog. Other tests that you might want to perform include testing for dog cancer markers and genetic disease markers.
Are DNA dog tests accurate?
DNA dog tests are often touted as one of the most accurate ways to determine a pet’s ancestry. This is because DNA markers within a pet’s genealogy can be used to reconstruct their family tree. However, many factors can affect the accuracy of these tests, including:
-The age of the sample.
-Whether or not cross-contamination occurred with different pets in the household.
-If multiple dogs were tested at once.
The results from purebred dogs tend to be more accurate than results from a mixed breed dog.
These limitations mean that DNA dog tests cannot be guaranteed to be 100% accurate. Most report about a 98% accuracy.
However, if you’re looking for an AncestryDNA test or any other type of genetic testing to make decisions about your pet’s care and well-being, it may be worth considering this option.
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Conclusion
Did you know that DNA testing is a meaningful way to monitor your dog’s health and ancestry? By testing your dog’s DNA, you can identify any potential health problems and learn about your dog’s ancestry.
There are a variety of dog DNA test kits available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is accurate and suitable for your dog.
Remember, with all products; features can change, so before purchasing, be sure the qualities that attracted you to the product are still the same.
So this concludes the 7 Best DNA Test Kits For Dogs – Buying Guide. I hope you found the information you were looking for and have become a better-informed consumer.
Do you have an experience with dog DNA test kits? Please comment below.