Over the past few years, I’ve watched at-home dog DNA tests transform from a novelty into an essential tool for us pet owners. These tests do more than satisfy our curiosity about our dog’s breed; they offer a window into their very essence, shedding light on your dog’s unique genetic composition.
Our research team bought 18 at-home dog DNA test kits, dug into each, and ranked them based on hands-on reviews, research studies, genetics and expert recommendations, breed database size, number of genetic markers, accuracy, and other important factors. We’ve broken down the best dog DNA kits into categories to help you choose one that’s the best fit for your needs.
Whether you’re curious about your dog’s origins or eager to take proactive steps for its health, the right DNA test can be a revelation. I’ve sifted through the clutter and provided a comprehensive guide to choosing the best dog DNA test. Let’s dive in!
We have tested and rated thousands of dog products, including dig DNA tests. Our writers, editors, research team and in-house veterinary review board spent hours analyzing these products to help you find what’s best for your dog. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate.
A complete breakdown of your dog’s breed: DNA tests screen for the genetic markers for over 350 breeds to decode the breeds that make up your mix-breed or pure-breed dog.
Purebreed verification: If you want to confirm that your purebred dog is indeed purebred, you can perform a test to verify its pedigree.
DNA testing you pop lets you discover your pup’s family tree and heritage.
Map out your dog’s ancestry back multiple generations—all the way to their great-grandparents.
A dog’s DNA is like a blueprint for their appearance, dictating everything from eye color to the way their ears flop or stand. However, their genes hold even more secrets than just looks. A dog DNA test can reveal these hidden traits, explaining your dog’s physical features and the reasons behind them. This means you can learn why your dog looks the way they do, from their fur pattern to the length of their tail, through a simple test.
Here are some of the traits that will be analyzed:
Coat color modifiers (i.e., Merle, body pattern)
Basecoat color (i.e., dark, brown pigment)
Body size
Other coat traits (i.e., shedding, coat texture)
Body features (i.e., eye colors, tail length)
Performance
Additionally, the test can forecast how large your dog will grow and what their ideal weight should be. Understanding your dog’s expected adult size and weight is crucial for tailoring their exercise, diet, and overall care to meet their needs. Plus, the test can offer insights into which traits your dog might pass on to any offspring.
A DNA test can give you a window into your dog’s health. Most at-home dog DNA tests health can screen for over 210 genetic diseases that your dog may be “at-risk” for or be a “carrier.” Even if your pup has no health conditions, they might be carriers. If you’re considering breeding your dog, these tests let you find out if they have genetic conditions that could affect the health of their future puppies.
Dog DNA tests with the help of your vet can help with the following:
Detect common dog diseases such as Glaucoma, Von Willebrand Disease
Detect breed-specific conditions such as Muscular Dystrophy found in Golden Retrievers
Identify genetic risks related to drug sensitivities (MDR1 gene), vision, weight, mobility, etc
Learn your dog’s “normal” ALT values to understand bloodwork better
Helps identify conditions that could cause severe problems during routine procedures, such as spaying or neutering
Puppy screening (hereditary diseases)
Knowing that your dog is predisposed as early as possible means you can start prevention or treatment early. Thanks to canine genetic testing, you can be a more proactive owner regarding your dog’s health.
A dog DNA test allows you to connect with other dogs who share your dog’s DNA. Dog DNA testing companies will tell you how much DNA your dog shares with other dogs in their database and offer you the ability to find your dog’s relatives – from close to distant. You can connect directly with them, compare DNA results, view photos, and more. Updates are continuous, so if a relative joins years after you do your dog’s test, you’ll still get notified.
Did you know low genetic diversity in dogs correlates with higher health risks? That’s why mutts are healthier than purebreds. Your dog’s results will show you how diverse (or heterozygous) your dog’s DNA which can give you a more complete view of their health. Dogs’ health and longevity are impacted by inbreeding. Inbred dogs can certainly live long and healthy lives, but less inbred dogs, on average, tend to live longer and healthier lives.
A dog DNA test can help identify genes associated with specific dog breeds ‘ behaviors.
Some behavioral traits that are likely to be detectable include:
Herding
Retrieving
Aggressive
Trainability
Energy level
Fear
When you get your dog’s DNA results, if there is a notable health concern, licensed veterinarians and vet geneticists are available for free consultation to answer or guide you regarding any concerns. Depends upon the type of DNA dog test you bought.
How to Pick The Best Dog DNA Test Kit
Accuracy and reliabilityLook for DNA tests grounded in solid scientific research and utilize advanced genotyping technologies.
Health markers Consider what health markers are covered by the test. The best dog DNA tests screen for multiple genetic health risks and inherited conditions, providing a comprehensive health profile of your dog.
PrivacyInvestigate how the company handles your pet’s genetic information. Look for clear privacy policies that outline how your data will be used, stored, and shared.
Breed database sizeThe size of the breed database a company uses is crucial. A larger database means the test can potentially identify a wider range of breeds, leading to more precise identification of your dog’s genetic makeup.
Turnaround timeThe time it takes to get your results can vary significantly between companies, ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months. Consider how the turnaround time fits with your expectations and needs.
Sample collectionMost dog at-home dog DNA tests use cheek swabs for sample collection, as this method is non-invasive, easy to perform, and provides a reliable source of DNA.
Health tests: 265+ (plus 25 medical complications)
Results: 2 to 3 weeks
Why we recommended it:Wisdom Panel wins our top pick for the best dog DNA test for mixed breeds. Wisdom Panel excels in breed identification. They have the largest database with over 2.5 million dogs (21,000+ samples from over 50 countries) for the best breed detection, allowing them to compare your pet’s genetic code to millions of possible breed combinations and screen for over 23% more dog breeds and 150% more cat breeds than leading competitors.
What sets it apart from competitors: Their technology has 40x greater genetic resolution, resulting in a dog breed detection system with over 98% accuracy. You will be able to see breed mix reported down to 1% and provide a chromosome map for mixed-breed dogs.
Key Features
Certified labs: Samples are processed in a U.S.-based lab that is CLIA-certified, AAHA-compliant, ISO 17025-certified, and accredited by both A2LA and the USDA.
Breeds tested: It tests for 350 different breeds, including 99% of AKC-recognized and uncommon breeds such as the coyote, the Mexican street dog, and the wolf.
Pros
Comes with two swabs, and they’ll replace for free if damaged
Ancestry, trait, and key health insights
Multi-generational family tree
Genetic relative match
Postage included
Results are delivered via email
Cons
Doesn’t allow customers to share results on the web portal
Best Dog DNA Test For Health Screening
4.7
★★★★★
Embark
Who It’s For: For those who want to get insights on their dog’s health.
Why we recommended it:Embark is our top pick for the best dog DNA test for health screening. Their kits take this edge in the health category because they analyze over 230,000 genetic markers, twice as many as the competition’s. Genetic markers help link an inherited disease with the gene responsible for your dog. Embark also uses a proprietary research-grade DNA genotyping platform developed by industry-leading scientists at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine to provide the most accurate results.
What sets it apart from competitors: Embark’s panel tests 210+ known genetic health risks in 16 areas (e.x., brain, hormones, clinical, etc.). It provides hundreds of actionable insights to help you give your pup the best care possible. After receiving their test results, the company says that 37% of dog owners changed how they care for their dogs.
Key Features
Find relatives: Over 90% of dogs tested by Embark have a close relative, like a cousin, and 12% discover a direct family member.
Additional screenings: It screens 350+ dog breeds, types, and varieties, including dingo, coyote, wolf, street dogs and so-called “village dogs.” to help you determine your dog’s genetic makeup and map out its family tree, ancestry, traits, close family members, and much more.
Pros
Veterinarian consultation included. Embark contacts owners should your results be worrisome
Live chat or email is available if you need help interpreting results
Dog scientific discoveries and invests in research
Shows dog lineage (map) and family tree
Charitable work with animal shelters
Embark rated as the most trusted dog DNA test in a blind study
Cons
Breed + Health test is relatively expensive
Best Dog DNA Test For Breed Identification
4.9
★★★★★
Koko Genetics
Who It’s For: Designed for dog owners who wish to gain a deeper understanding of their pet’s breed composition
Why we recommended it: We selected the Koko DNA Test for Dogs Advanced due to its comprehensive analysis covering over 400 breeds, the most out of all the DNA test kits available. Koko’s genetic test is regulated by European legislation and meets all conditions, guaranteed reliability and encrypted data to protect you and your pet’s personal information.
What sets it apart from competitors: This test distinguishes itself by analyzing over 710,000 genetic markers, offering a level of detail and accuracy that many competitors unmatch.
Key Features
Social connect. Offers a tool to connect with other dogs that share DNA
Lifetime updates: Their test is constantly updated with new features and functionalities. It will be automatically implemented at no cost, giving you the most up-to-date information on your pet’s genetic health.
Pros
Comprehensive breed and health information
User-friendly testing process with clear instructions
Cons
The test is more expensive than some basic tests on the market. However, the depth of information and free updates justify the investment. If you would like a cheaper option, DNA My Dog tests are another excellent alternative, but they only test for 300 breeds.
Best Affordable Dog DNA Test
4.5
★★★★★
Basepaws
Who It’s For: Great for those seeking an affordable comprehensive DNA Test kit.
Why we picked and recommended it: We chose the Basepaws Dog DNA Test as our best affordable dog DNA Test because it offers a balance between comprehensive genetic screening and affordability. It presents a cost-effective option for pet owners seeking detailed insights into their dog’s genetic makeup and health predispositions.
What sets it apart from competitors: Basepaws stands out for employing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, offering more detailed and accurate analysis than many competitors. This allows for the analysis of approximately 2.5 billion nucleotide bases per canine genome, providing unmatched depth in breed and health information.
Pros
User-friendly interface with detailed, easy-to-understand reports delivered via email
Scientist conducts follow-up work with dog parents to match pet samples in their database with veterinary medical records that confirm diagnoses and health histories
Cons
Longer turnaround time for results compared to some other tests
Best Dog DNA Test For Purebreds
4.5
★★★★★
Embark
Who It’s For: For those interested in breed and ancestry confirmation. It’s especially valuable for those looking to ensure their purebred dogs are healthy and to understand their genetic makeup in detail.
Why we recommended it: We chose the Embark Purebred Kit because of its precision in analyzing genetic health risks and its ability to measure genetic diversity, which is crucial for maintaining the health of purebred populations. The partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and the use of advanced genotyping technology contribute to its accuracy and reliability.
What sets it apart from competitors: Embark stands out for its research-grade genotyping technology, which analyzes twice as many genetic markers as its competitors, leading to more accurate results. Additionally, its mission to help end preventable diseases in dogs and the creation of the world’s largest database of canine health information set it apart from other DNA tests on the market.
Key Features
Discover relatives: Access to an extensive database for canine relative finder.
Veterinary consultation: Dedicated vets and geneticists to answer your questions about your results.
Pros
37% of dog owners changed how they care for their dogs after receiving their results
Personalized recommendations, if applicable
Predicted adult weight
They send the results directly to your veterinarian
Cons
Higher price point compared to some basic tests
Family tree not applicable
Best Dog DNA Age Test
3.9
★★★★★
Embark
Who It’s For: Dog owners curious about their dogs’ age; especially beneficial for rescue dog owners or those who have adopted dogs without a clear history.
Why we recommended it: We selected the Embark Dog Age Test for its innovative approach to estimating a dog’s age using DNA methylation, a reliable epigenetic marker. Embark uses the amount and position of DNA methylation as a type of “clock” to estimate age. The accuracy of DNA methylation in predicting real age has been validated across different species, including humans, dogs, and other mammals.
What sets it apart from competitors: They suggest appropriate diet, exercise, and preventative care options to keep your dog healthy at every life stage based on your dog’s age. The age test model uses data from thousands of dogs with known ages so that we can reliably estimate your dog’s age based on their DNA methylation profile.
Key Features
Database: They use data from thousands of dogs with known ages to reliably estimate your dog’s age based on its DNA methylation profile.
Advice based on results: Helps provide age-appropriate care based on a more accurate estimation of your dog’s age.
Pros
Your dog’s sample is collected for epigenetics research
Cons
The results offer an estimation that might not satisfy all owners looking for precise dates
Expensive for a basic test. If you want a more affordable DNA age dog test, opt for the DNA My Dog Premium Test Genetic Age Test to identify your dog’s breed mix and biological age. This test measures the size of the dog’s telomeres, which tend to shorten as they age. Telomere length provides insight into the dog’s long-term health and longevity
Best Vet-Recommended Dog DNA Test
3.7
★★★★★
Orivet
Who It’s For: For those looking for a trusted test made by renowned scientists and veterinarians.
Why we recommended it:Orivet dog DNA test is made by a leading global pet genetic testing organization. It offers an extensive range of dog and cat DNA tests to Breeders, Veterinarians, and Pet Owners in over 70 countries around the world. Orivet has developed internationally recognized protocols and programs for member bodies, breed clubs, kennel clubs, and associations.
What sets it apart from competitors: It includes a personalized LifePlanTM based on the breeds determined and your pet’s age, weight, gender, geographic location, and lifestyle. They also offer purebred Dog DNA tests available for 10 different breeds.
Pros
Highly accredited laboratory for testing
Self-addressed pre-paid envelope
Member and sponsor of the International Partnership for Dogs
Routine health care advice
Adult weight prediction (for puppies under 12 months old)
Cons
Results don’t contain as much information as our top 2 picks
Some customers said it took a long time to get results
Best Dog DNA Test For Breed-Specific Health Condition
4.5
★★★★★
Paw Print Genetics
Who It’s For: Great for gaining actionable breed-specific health insights.
Why we recommended it:Paw Print Genetics offers the best genetic testing for breed-specific diseases to determine whether your dog is at risk of developing or passing it on.
What sets it apart from competitors: Their website allows you to search tests by breed, disease/trait, or symptom. For instance, if you pick Labrador as your breed, you will get a list of all the most common Labrador diseases. You can choose to test your Labrador for one specific disease or multiple. The more tests ordered, the greater the discount.
Pros
Analyzes each mutation with two independent methods
Genetic counseling is available, and excellent customer support
Pedigree Report and Genetic Health Certificate
Partners with many dog clubs and associations
Cons
Very limited mixed-breed tests
No breed identification tests
Also Great
4.9
★★★★★
Ancestry
Who It’s For: A great alternative for dog owners who wish to gain deeper insights into their dog’s breed mix, traits, and genetic matches.
Why we recommended it: Ancestry, one of the most popular DNA test brands for humans, now offers a DNA test kit for dogs. This kit enables owners to delve into the possible traits, personality, appearance, and behaviors their dogs might have inherited, discover their breed composition, and find potential matches with canine relatives.
What sets it apart from competitors: Leverage Ancestry’s global footprint DNA analysis and database to provide a detailed breed report analysis.
Pros
They can identify hundreds of breeds from all over the world
Comes with a postage-paid box
Cons
Results are limited to the information within Ancestry’s database, which may not cover all possible dog breeds or mixes.
It is important to take your dog’s DNA test results with a grain of salt. Terms like “positive,” “negative,” and “inconclusive” can have different meanings depending on the type of genetic test your dog had.
Positive results
If the genetic test result is positive, meaning the genetic change tested for was detected in your dog, talk to your vet or genetic counselor about what a positive result means for your dog. Sometimes, you can make lifestyle changes that may reduce your dog’s risk of developing a disease, even if your dog has a gene that makes him more susceptible to a disorder. A positive result will help you and your veterinarian determine the right treatment and management plan. Results may also help you make choices related to treatment, breeding, and insurance coverage.
Negative results
A negative result means a mutated gene was not detected by the test, which can be reassuring, but it’s not a 100 percent guarantee that your dog doesn’t have the disorder. The accuracy of genetic tests to detect mutated genes varies depending on the condition, testing method, whether or not the gene mutation was previously identified in a family member, health risk predisposition, and other factors. Even if your dog doesn’t have the mutated gene, that doesn’t necessarily mean he will never get the disease. Also, genetic testing may not be able to detect all genetic defects.
Inconclusive results
Sometimes, a genetic test may not provide helpful information about the gene. Dogs have variations in how genes appear; these variations often don’t affect their health. But sometimes, it can be not easy to distinguish between a disease-causing gene and a harmless gene variation. These changes are called variants of uncertain significance. Follow-up testing or periodic gene reviews may be necessary in these situations.
Dog DNA Test Frequently Asked Questions
No is the short answer. Dog DNA tests are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), unlike human DNA tests such as Ancestry and 23andMe. These companies promise high levels of internal quality control.
Yes, you can get a dog DNA test from your veterinarian. However, it will be more expensive than performing an at-home dog DNA test. Your veterinarian may refer you to submit a blood sample versus a saliva sample to ensure adequate genomic material. The process does not take long, but your dog may be frightened by the needles.
Most dog DNA tests take 2 to 4 weeks to process and analyze your dog’s DNA sample in the laboratory. You can expect to wait this long to receive the results.
You can do a dog DNA test from the confront of your home thanks to at-home dog DNA testing companies like Wisdom Panel and Embark. These options offer the most convenience and affordability. Your local veterinarian should also be able to perform a dog DNA test.
A dog DNA test result will tell your dog’s breed mix by percentage. They can also discern between lineages and provide a DNA tree from the sire (father) and dam (mother). Canine DNA testing will also reveal health risks and breed predisposition to certain diseases. Other vital items these tests tell you to include your dog’s ancestry, relatives, genetic diversity, traits, ideal weight, and other fun facts you didn’t know about your dog.
A dog DNA test can be performed at home thanks to at-home dog DNA test kits. It only requires you to take a simple mouth swab inside your dog’s mouth (usually from the cheek) and send it to the laboratory. Put the swab into the provided container or clean envelope, mail it to the manufacturer, and wait two to four weeks for your results to arrive. Another option for DNA testing your dog is with your vet. Veterinarians may take a blood sample from your dog instead of a saliva swab.
Puppies can get DNA tested, and the results won’t change. However, it is advised to wait until they are at least two weeks old, and it is safe to separate them from the dam and littermates for at least one hour to minimize contamination.
Wisdom Panel claims to have the largest breed database with more than 350 profiles, including wolf and coyote.
The Bottom Line
Dog genetic testing companies offering Dog DNA tests are becoming increasingly popular, but are they worth the cost? Our findings show dog DNA tests are worth it in our book. We are a huge proponent of everything that will improve your dog’s life. Aside from learning fun facts about your furry friend, DNA testing for dogs can provide vital insight into your dog’s health. Mixed-breed genetic testing can be a great asset in discovering who they are and why they behave in specific ways. Knowing more about your dog is a beautiful way to provide a better quality of life and keep them happy. We recommend DNA testing your mixed breed if you want to be able to better care for them. It’s worth the investment.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
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