Most Popular Dog Breeds In Australia
The Best Dog DNA Testing Kits For 2025 - PCMag
Want to know if your pup is 100 percent Pointer? Mostly Mastiff? A dog DNA test uncovers your pooch's origins and offers information about genetic issues. We tested three popular kits to let you know which one delivers the best results.
By Eric GriffithI've been writing about computers, the internet, and technology professionally for over 30 years, more than half of that time with PCMag. I run several special projects including the Readers' Choice and Business Choice surveys, and yearly coverage of the Best ISPs and Best Gaming ISPs, plus Best Products of the Year and Best Brands. I work from my home, and did it long before pandemics made it cool.
Read Full Bio Updated November 18, 2024 LOOK INSIDE PC LABS: HOW WE TEST Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.Best Dog DNA Test Kits: A Veterinarian's Review - TIME
If you've been curious about your pup's heritage, you may be surprised to learn about the existence of dog DNA test kits. Similar to the ones made for humans, these canine versions look at genetic markers that provide information about breed. Though there are multiple dog DNA test kit brands, quality can vary. In my opinion, as a veterinarian, the top two are clearly Embark and Wisdom Panel. Embark tests over 230,000 genetic markers, which they say is more than twice that of their top competitor, Wisdom Panel. Wisdom Panel says they're the most accurate for dog breed testing.
I've rounded up several kits by each of them and you can decide which you prefer based on your needs. If you have the means, it could be fun to run a test from each company for personal comparison.
My top picks for dog DNA tests Best research-backed dog DNA test: Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA TestEmbark's research partnership with Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine—which is consistently ranked in the top three veterinary colleges in the United States—is a key factor in what makes them a leader in dog DNA test kits. Whether you're curious about your dog's breed or you want an idea of how much they'll weigh as an adult, Embark has a lot to offer. Fun fact: Embark is also the official dog DNA test brand for Westminster Kennel Club.
SpecificationsWith their multiple DNA test kits, transparency about accuracy, and research collaboration with a top-notch college of veterinary medicine, Embark is the overall winner in my book.
Best dog DNA health test: Wisdom Panel PremiumThis test offers extensive health insight and it's processed in a human-grade lab. Wisdom Panel is also a partner of the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA), which, among other things like funding research, gathers canine genetic information in voluntary databases.
SpecificationsWith screening for over 265 genetic conditions and a phone consultation for 'at risk' findings, Wisdom Panel Premium is a great choice.
Best dog DNA test for mixed breeds: Embark Breed ID Dog DNA TestEmbark's website states, "Of the mixed breed dogs that Embark has tested, 80% had a breed contribution small enough that only Embark would detect it." This makes Embark's Breed Dog DNA Test the best choice for mixed breed dogs.
SpecificationsFind out what breeds your dog is in this easy to read report and then compare notes if you opt to connect with relatives who are also in the database.
Best dog DNA test for purebreds: Embark Ancestry + Health Dog DNA Test for Purebred PetsAs with the other Embark health test kits, their screening for purebred dogs can help identify genetic risk for conditions affecting various parts of the body, such as the eyes, heart, skin, and the musculoskeletal system. They also screen for the MDR1 drug sensitivity mutation. Keep in mind that having a genetic risk for a disease is not a clinical diagnosis. More on this later.
If you're interested in a breed-specific option, e.G. You want a test that specifically is for the genetic risks of a French bulldog, consider Orivet's Purebred DNA test. However, I couldn't find information where they state a percentage for how accurate their tests are.
SpecificationsIf you want a report on possible health risks for your purebred pup, this DNA test kit is a great choice.
Best dog DNA test for breed identification: Wisdom Panel Breed DiscoveryWisdom Panel states they have the world's largest breed database which covers all AKC registered breeds and some rare breeds as well. However, if your dog is a mixed breed, pick Embark's Breed Dog DNA Test, which is more accurate. For mixed breeds, Wisdom Panel's Breed Discovery is 93% accurate according to veterinary geneticist, Dr. Angela Hughes.
SpecificationsIdentify your dog's breeds and possibly find some of your pup's relatives with the Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery test kit.
Best dog age DNA test: Embark Dog Age TestThere are two DNA-based age test methodologies and Embark uses the most accurate, called methylation. In human medicine, methylation has been well established as being able to determine the biological age of any tissue. Methylation is also being researched to evaluate things like life expectancy. Biological age is different from chronological, or calendar, age, which I'll discuss in more detail later. Methylation, however, can also estimate calendar age and that is what Embark provides with this kit.
SpecificationsIf you want to find out an age range estimate for your dog, Embark uses the most accurate methodology.
Best budget dog DNA test: Wisdom Panel EssentialWith the world's largest breed database, Wisdom Panel Essential is reasonably priced. This DNA test kit is easy to use and gives you breed information and some limited health screening.
SpecificationsFor the price and quick turnaround time, this is a great breed DNA test with some health and trait tests as well.
How did I select the best dog DNA tests?Both Embark and Wisdom Panel have a large database and multiple test kits options. Some of their competitors offer one or two options for kits (e.G. Basepaws and Ancestry offer one, Koko Genetics offers two). And on both Embark and Wisdom Panel's websites, it's easy to find their accuracy information with an actual percentage given.
Both Embark and Wisdom Panel are also partnered with reputable research organizations: Embark with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, and Wisdom Panel with Morris Animal Foundation, OFA, and others. Both also use human-grade labs. (And I'm not saying that the other companies aren't partnered with reputable places and don't use human-grade labs.) Ultimately, the upfront transparency about accuracy—with a stated percentage—was a major factor in why I chose Embark and Wisdom Panel above their competitors.
What is a dog DNA test?Dog DNA tests are a way for pet owners, dog breeders, and veterinarians to learn more about an animal's genetic makeup. An at-home DNA test kit collects cells from the inside of your dog's mouth, which are then used to analyze genetic material for information on breed identification, physical traits—like if your dog might experience heavy seasonal shedding—and genetic health risks. (However, positive results for a genetic risk isn't a diagnosis. More on this later.) You mail the sample to the company and in several weeks, they email you a report.
There are also DNA tests that can be run on blood, but if your veterinarian orders these, they will draw your pet's blood and submit the sample to a veterinary genetics laboratory.
What to look for in a dog DNA test What are the features of the test?Look for a test whose capabilities and focus meet your needs:
Are you looking to identify what blend of breeds your rescue pup is?If your primary purpose is breed identification, then you'll want to know how big the company's breed database is. For example, Basepaws' DNA test kit box says 200+ breeds (though the product description on their website says 300+).
Do you have a purebred dog and you want to see if they have genetic markers for certain medical issues?Look for a test that offers either the most genetic disease markers or find a kit that is breed specific. Orivet offers breeds-specific kits, like a French bulldog kit, a Labrador kit, etc. But keep in mind, a positive result doesn't automatically mean your pet will get that disease. More on this later.
Do you want to learn about your dog's ancestry or do you want to locate your pup's siblings or other relatives?Some kits offer ancestry information and the ability to find relatives in their database. Or maybe you're interested in testing for behavior traits (like hunting-related food motivation) and physical traits like the possible weight range your puppy might fall within as an adult.
Some companies only offer one dog DNA test kit. Some have several choices ranging from mainly breed identification, screening for breeds and genetic health risks, and screening for various physical traits.
How accurate is the test?I'll go into more detail on accuracy later, but on Embark's website a percentage is readily provided on every single product page (99% accuracy). Others, like Wisdom Panel, have it in their FAQs section ("at least 99% accuracy"). On some companies' pages, you can search for accuracy information, click on multiple links, and still not find an actual number, e.G. Basepaws, Koko Genetics, and DNA My Dog.
How big is their breed databaseLook for a website that clearly states how big their database is. If you have a mixed breed dog and one or more of their various breeds aren't in a company's database, they're not going to be able to provide you with that information. The database size is usually stated on the box itself but more information can be found on the company website. Some also include testing to determine if your dog is part coyote or wolf.
Why should I try a dog DNA test?Trying a dog DNA test is helpful if you want to learn more about your dog's breed makeup, ancestry, behavior, genetic risk factors, and physical traits. Knowing these things can help guide you in offering more informed care for your pet. (Breed and health info can even provide some data points for things like choosing the best dog food for puppies or the best senior dog food.) It's also a fun way to potentially find some of your dog's relatives.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Are dog DNA tests really accurate?This is a debated topic because dog DNA test kits aren't regulated by the FDA and experts say there aren't peer-reviewed publications that evaluate test kit accuracy. So essentially, you have to trust what a company tells you. And some manufacturer's websites don't tell you in terms of a percentage how accurate their tests are.
Other general things to keep in mind regarding accuracy is that a sufficient quantity of sample material is required, which means you need to swab your dog's mouth for a certain amount of time. For example, Embark specifically prefers 60 seconds and not 30 seconds. Wisdom Panel says 15 seconds. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions on how to swab your dog's cheek as well as how long to wait after your dog takes medication or eats—including nursing if a dog isn't weaned—before swabbing.
Another important factor to consider is that for genetic health screening, a positive result means your dog is at increased risk for that medical issue but it doesn't tell you the actual probability that your dog will actually ever develop it. That's not a question that science can answer yet. Since it's not a diagnosis, discuss your results with a veterinarian or a geneticist at the DNA test kit company in addition to your personal veterinarian. Keep in mind that experience and knowledge about genetic testing varies among private practice veterinarians.
If your pet doesn't have any positive results, that doesn't automatically mean they will never develop medical issues because there isn't a genetic test for every medical condition.
Since you're taking a company's word for how accurate their test is, my recommendation is to pick a product where that information is openly shared. If you search through their website for 10 minutes and have to sift through scientific jargon and you still haven't found an answer…my personal preference would be to not buy from them.
Why doesn't my dog look like the breeds on the report?Your dog's breed report tells you who they are at a DNA level, and that is not all about physical appearance. In fact, Embark's website notes that "Less than 1% of a dog's 20,000 genes impacts appearance."
Other things to think about are how many breeds comprise both of your dog's parents—and their parents, etc? You can't rely on physical appearance to determine this. To complicate things, multiple genes can affect a single physical trait.
And of the genes your dog inherited, which ones are actually being expressed? And are dominant genes being expressed or recessive genes? There are also random DNA mutations that can occur, which can affect a dog's physical appearance.
What DNA test do vets use?They often use veterinary genetics laboratories for DNA testing, such as UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine or the University of Pennsylvania's PennGen Laboratories. Collecting a sample to submit to such a lab can sometimes involve a blood draw, which would be performed at your pet's veterinary clinic.
Some veterinarians might also opt to use a cheek swab kit like Embark for Veterinarian DNA Test Kit. This kit provides veterinarians with more thorough information than a retail kit that pet owners can purchase online. Embark also has an online platform for veterinarians needing consultation services.
Can dog DNA tell age?Depending on the testing method used, dog DNA can help estimate a dog's genetic age—which can vary from their chronological age—or it can be used to estimate both. Chronological, or calendar, age is based on when your dog was born. Genetic age—or biological age—is influenced by things like environment, nutrition, and disease. Such factors can cause a dog to be younger or older in terms of genetic age. As such, genetic age can be used to predict longevity. So if a dog (or person's) genetic age is younger than their calendar age, theoretically they'll live longer. If the genetic age is older, a dog's lifespan will likely be shorter.
Some dog DNA test kits include genetic age (e.G. DNA My Dog) whereas Embark—who uses a different testing modality that's considered more accurate—offers a separate Dog Age Test Kit. The methodology that Embark uses is capable of determining both genetic age and calendar age, but the information they provide you with is an estimated range of your dog's chronological age.
The two modalities used for estimating genetic age are telomere length and methylation, but the scope of these topics are beyond this article. More information can be found on Embark's website and DNA My Dog's 'Questions about the science' section. Interestingly, these genetic age methodologies have been researched in human medicine as a way to assess the quality of donor kidneys.
The Best Dog DNA Tests Of 2024 - Popular Science
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Sign Up For Goods 🛍️ Product news, reviews, and must-have deals. You may not know much about your new furry friend if you've recently rescued a pup, which is why it's a good idea to invest in a dog DNA test kit. It's smart to find out as much as you can about their breed to understand their behaviors and predisposed health issues. Characteristics such as herding, retrieving, aggressive behaviors, and physical attributes have a lot to do with a dog's breed and ancestry. And if you've rescued a dog, you may not even know what breed(s) your pet is! Dog DNA tests make it easy to answer practically all questions about your dog, like our best overall pick, the Embark Dog DNA TestBreed & Health Kit. The best dog DNA test will not only answer the important questions about your pet's genetic history, but also will help to ensure you have the tools to keep your pup happy and healthy.
How we chose the best dog DNA testsThere are plenty of home DNA tests for dogs on the market. The truly effective ones may cost more, but they may save you in the long run. Brands such as Wisdom and Embark dog DNA tests can cost between just under $100 and to more than $160, but keep in mind they are the most highly rated and effective home DNA tests. The difference in price is due to what is tested for in the kit. The less expensive tests are specifically for breed identification, while the pricier options will offer information on health and doggy relatives, so the test you choose is up to you and what you are interested in learning more about. Fortunately, most canine DNA tests are very easy to use. You just need to swab your pup's cheek, send your kit into the lab, and wait for about two to four weeks. We kept all of this in mind when testing the best dog DNA tests.
The best dog DNA tests: Reviews & RecommendationsThe best dog DNA test will offer the most accurate breed breakdown for your pup at its most basic function. There are various types of dog DNA tests that will help determine your dog's breed, genetic testing for diseases, or even help to connect you with your dog's relatives. One of our choices should help you learn more about your best furry friend.
Best overall: Embark Breed & Health Kit See It ProsWhy it made the cut: This market leader provides comprehensive genetic testing for health risks, breed, ancestry, and relatives, with a relatively quick turnaround time.
The Embark dog DNA test is one of the most popular dog DNA test kit brands—and for good reason. The research-grade genotyping platform developed with the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine screens for over 350 dog breeds, making it one of the most accurate tests on the market. The test includes a health screening for over 200 genetic diseases, so you can share your dog's potential health risks with your vet. You can also find and connect with other pups that share your dog's DNA to schedule a fun meet-up. Results take about two to four weeks.
In our hands-on test, results fell on the early end of the typical turnaround time—just over two weeks. The results come with a robust dataset in a 32-page PDF and on the web. My dog is particularly difficult to map because of its extremely varied breed variety, but it rightly identified the major breeds involved.
We mentioned the test to our vet and they agreed the health suggestions are worth keeping in mind, though we shouldn't worry too much about them. If you're the type to obsess over dog health issues, that aspect of the testing may be stressful for you. Overall, however, Embark provides a very simple testing method, quick turnaround time, and lots of data in easy-to-read formats.
Best for breed identification: Embark Breed Identification Kit See It ProsWhy it made the cut: If you're interested in tracking down your dog's relatives, the Embark Breed Identification Kit is for you. Easy to use, this kit provides access to Embark's database, in which 90% of dogs tested have a close relative.
To understand your dog's physical traits and personality, it's important to start with the breed ID. Once you've accurately detected your dog's breed(s), you can correctly address the training that would best fit their temperament. In three simple steps of activating your dog's test, swabbing your dog's cheeks, and mailing the swab into the lab, Embark can detect breed contributions of your mutt down to five percent of all of the breeds involved. The Embark DNA test will provide a family tree up to the great-grandparents and will show any relatives that have used the test.
Best for health: Wisdom Panel Premium See It ProsWhy it made the cut: This comprehensive kit tests for more than 200 genetic health risks, plus provides access to a database of more than three million dogs so you can compare DNA.
If you want to know about your dog and the health risks common with specific breeds, then a canine DNA test is the perfect starting point. Better insight into ancestry, historical conditions, as well as current red flags, means better care. With over 200 health tests—including vision, hearing, weight, and drug sensitivities—you will learn about any health risks and what procedures and medicines could be of danger to your furry pal.
Wanda Maximoff Cadden (pup of Senior Director of Commerce, Billy Cadden) Of course, this easy-to-use Wisdom panel test also includes top-notch breed breakdowns by uncovering your dog's breed mix down to one percent and by using over 35 trait tests to reveal your pup's unique physical characteristics.
Best with life plan: ORIVET Dog DNA Test
Orivet
See It ProsWhy it made the cut: This kit tests for health risks and breed information and also provides a personalized wellness plan and ongoing outreach through an online portal.
One of the best reasons to invest in the best dog DNA test is to better understand your pet's care options throughout their lifetime. With a pet profile, you can easily share information with a veterinarian, health care provider, family, and friends. This dog DNA test kit from Orivet includes all the bells and whistles—and then some, save for a retractable leash. The results reveal breed makeup, weight prediction, behavioral insights, and health risks (and, more importantly, how to act on them). The proprietary test also comes with a personalized wellness plan based on the dog's breed, age, gender, location, and lifestyle. If you find that your test isn't accurate, there is a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Best budget: Wisdom Panel Essential See It ProsWhy it made the cut: If you're just looking for a breakdown of your dog's breed and major genetic health risks, this kit is a good option.
You don't have to be a big spender to get down to the smallest detail; this test lets you discover your pup's breed mix to one percent by testing for over 350 dog breeds. With over 35 trait tests, you'll be able to learn more about what makes your dog unique, from their muzzle shape to their fur color. Be in the know when you take your pup to the vet with the help of Wisdom by screening over 25 medical complications including drug sensitivities.
What to consider when buying the best dog DNA testsYou don't just walk into the pet shop and pick up the first bag of food you see—you research the best dry dog foods and start your search there. The same goes for a dog DNA test. When shopping around for the best dog DNA test, think about what you want to know about your pooch.
Do you want health information?If you're curious about the breed(s) of your pup and then figure you can research the rest from there, then you can get a test that focuses on breed. If you want a more detailed breakdown of your pup's genetics, then pick a comprehensive genetic kit that can also clue you into your dog's behavioral proclivities and potential for disease.
If you're simply curious about where your dog came from, then a basic test will suffice. More in-depth tests can, however, give you insight into possible health problems that may arise down the road.
Turn around timeWe're not really sure why you'd need to know your dog's DNA results in a hurry, but most of these offerings promise results in roughly two to four weeks. Some will let you pay extra to get expedited results, but others stick strictly to their window. Generally, we haven't found any outliers that differentiate themselves purely on turn around time.
Sample sizeAnother thing to consider when selecting your canine DNA test is the brand. Wisdom, for example, can detect your dog's breed mix down to one percent, as they have tested two million dogs and have the largest canine DNA database. It may be a bit more expensive, but it will get you the most accurate results.
FAQs Q: How much does a dog DNA test cost?Dog DNA kits range in price from just under $100 to about $160. They often go on sale as part of big shopping holidays such as Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Q: Which dog DNA test is most accurate?The most accurate dog DNA test kit is Embark, as the platform used has been researched and tested in partnership with the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Due to the fact that it screens for over 350 dog breeds, including most dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club, some street dogs, and the gray wolf, you're going to get very accurate results. Since there are many various levels of the Embark dog DNA test, you can select which one you want based on what exactly you want to know, whether you are solely curious about your dog's breed or need a more comprehensive breakdown. Embark will also immediately contact you if they find any alarming results.
Q: Can dog DNA tell age?While some human DNA tests can estimate age, dog DNA tests don't yet offer this type of information. Some can offer an estimate of genetic age by using the reported calendar age and gender of the dog. From there, characteristics such as breed breakdown are factored in to reveal where a dog is in his or her life relative to a human being. So, while you may not get an exact result, you'll have a better idea of what topper to buy for your furry friend's doggy-cupcake.
Q: Do vets do dog DNA tests?In short, vets do dog DNA tests, but will most likely not use the same home DNA tests that owners use. Some vets prefer to send in blood samples to the lab because they can be sure that large amounts of DNA will be included as opposed to the cheek swab included in-home DNA kits. Since dog DNA tests are so accessible nowadays, it might be easier (and cheaper) to just do it at home!
Final thoughts on the best dog DNA testsThe best dog DNA tests provide a window into your pet. They'll tell you your dog's breed and reveal the genetics behind their behavioral and physical traits, such as personality and the color of fur. Some kits will also help you identify breed-specific health issues that can help you know what to look out for, understand medication options, and know what to bring up with your vet. From learning about your pup's breed to understanding potential inherited health issues, canine DNA tests will help you learn more about your precious pup to give them the happy and healthy life they deserve.
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