Here you can see how Home DNA and Embark match up head-to-head in a battle for the Best Dog DNA Test Kits in 2025.
Looking to learn more about your dog's heritage? Home DNA might be an option, but there are some things to consider. They've been a trusted provider in human DNA tests since 1995, now offering two types of dog DNA tests for breed identification and health screening. However, their breed identification is limited to 220 popular breeds, and their health screening covers fewer genetic diseases and traits compared to others. Collecting your dog's DNA may also be more uncomfortable. Turnaround time is about 3 weeks, and their refund policy is a bit murky. While Home DNA has an "A+" from the Better Business Bureau, customer reviews are sparse and the tests may not offer the value for the cost. Try one of our higher ranked dog DNA test providers instead.
Embark is a dog DNA test that delivers a wealth of information about your furry friend, from their breed mix to potential health conditions to who their relatives are. They've partnered with Cornell University for cutting-edge research, contributing to discoveries that benefit all dogs. You'll find the process simple and quick, with results in just 2-4 weeks. Plus, Embark offers some unique features, like a "wolfiness" score and the inclusion of village dogs. We think their test makes for an affordable, thoughtful gift for a pet owner in your life. Despite a recent drop in their Better Business Bureau rating, we still rank Embark as our top choice for dog DNA tests.
If you've ever stared at your pup - mismatched ears and endearing quirks - and wondered, What on earth are you?, you're in good company. More and more dog owners are turning to DNA tests to satisfy that curiosity, uncovering their pet's breed mix, flagging health predispositions, and even shedding light on unique behaviors. Many kits are simple to use at home and can give you insights to share with your vet or trainer.
Maybe you brought home a shelter pup with a hazy backstory, or you're just trying to figure out why your dog greets every guest with a toy clenched in his mouth - either way, a DNA test could shed some light. These kits don't just satisfy curiosity; many also hint at breed-driven traits and potential health risks that can help you tailor training and care. With so many companies selling canine DNA tests now, it's fair to wonder whether one stands out from the rest.
Dog DNA kits run the gamut: some are all about ancestry, which is a delight for mutt owners - who knew that quirky Boston Terrier face hides a Chow Chow great-grandparent? If you're focused on preventive care, look for panels that screen for inherited health risks, while others dig into traits and behavior to explain quirks like dahlia-digging or barking at his oven-door reflection. Many kits now combine these features, so think about whether you want curiosity, care, or training insights before you swab. The right match can turn a fun science project into practical guidance for your dog's day-to-day life.
Many popular dog DNA kits include a relatives database that matches your pup with other dogs sharing its genetic profile, letting you virtually "meet" family members and maybe even track down littermates. It's a playful perk - and surprisingly helpful for adopters who know little about their dog's background. Some services even let you filter by location to make a reunion or playdate easier. If that capability matters to you, make sure the company you're considering actually offers it.
These days, plenty of companies sell dog DNA and health tests that can flag likely food or medication allergies and even estimate your pup's age. Whether you're trying to get to the bottom of recurring symptoms or just curious about how old they really are, the results can be genuinely useful. It's often worth paying a bit more for a breed identification kit that also screens for inherited disorders, since that insight helps you anticipate potential problems and map out preventive steps with your veterinarian. Some services also provide practical next steps - think diet tweaks, monitoring tips, and follow-up timelines - so you can act on the findings right away.
As you shop online for a dog DNA test, here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Choosing the right dog DNA test isn't just a walk in the park. It requires careful consideration of these factors. Whether you're driven by curiosity about your dog's breed or concerned about potential health issues, the right test can provide insights that deepen your understanding and strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Top Consumer Reviews has sniffed out and ranked the best Dog DNA Tests available. We hope this review helps you fetch the perfect test for your four-legged buddy, making your shared journey even more pawsome.
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How Can Dog DNA Testing Help You?
Dog genetic testing can be useful for a variety of reasons. Maybe you want to know more about your pup's prestige, or maybe you worry about potential health issues - either way DNA testing could really help you!
In this article we'll delve into why its worth the time and effort to find out more about your pooch's background, and the things to look for once you decide to do it. The most important thing to remember of course is to love your dog no matter what, and to be prepared to brag about the results along with cute pictures on Facebook.
One important reason you might want to test your dog's genes is for their health. There are some dogs who are more sensitive to common vet medicines, and could have reactions to them. This especially applies to farm dogs or animals near other wildlife, as there can be things that the farm animals can ingest just fine, but when the dog eats their poop it can harm the dog. There is also a condition called "exercise induced collapse" that can be tested for at some companies. While these are some of the more serious health reasons you might want to test your dog, there are also plenty of fun reasons you might be interested in the process.
Dogs are super cute, it's just a fact. But when you look at your little pup's face, do you ever wonder what breeds are looking back at you? If your dog is mixed breed, like most dogs are now, chances are people have only guessed at what your dog's lineage is. You might think you have a border collie shepherd mix, but really the majority is lab! It can be fun to know what makes up your companion, especially to look up breed traits and see how well your dog matches them. You might even be able to learn about a type of breed you never even knew about, and see that it might just be one of your new favorites. While the reasons behind deciding to test your animal are important, it's also good to educate yourself about the process, and learn how to interpret the results of your test.
Dog genetic testing has changed with modern technology. While in the past places would need a blood sample from your dog, now they just need a cheek swab, like human DNA testing. The company will use a lab to take a strand of DNA out of the swab. They will then multiply the strand until they have what they need, and then they will test it against their own personal stock of DNA samples. What's important to know about this, is that bigger companies will have a bigger supply of "knowns", meaning they are testing your dog's genes against many more types. Smaller companies have fewer samples to compare with, which means their results can be skewed since they aren't testing against as many types of genetics. It's safest to go with larger companies so you can have a more detailed analysis of your dog.
Dog DNA testing can be very helpful for pet owners. The more dogs that are tested, the more we can learn about each breed, and each individual dog, to best take care of them. So go get your dog tested and make sure to share the results!
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