10 Best DNA Tests for Dogs 2025 in the United States

The Embark Breed Identification Kit stands out in the dog DNA testing category with its impressive accuracy and comprehensive screening. It identifies over 350 dog breeds with 99% breed ancestry accuracy, making it particularly useful for owners of mixed breed dogs. The kit includes a unique relative finder feature, allowing users to discover and connect with their dog's family members, which is a rare and appealing addition for those interested in their pet's genealogy.

Sample collection is straightforward, and the company provides support if the swab happens to be past its best-by date or if there are issues with DNA extraction. Additionally, Embark's partnership with Cornell University ensures that the technology used is top-notch and backed by significant research. Users can expect results within 2-4 weeks, which is a reasonable timeframe, and the company keeps customers updated throughout the process.

This kit is ideal for dog owners who are interested in detailed breed identification and familial connections, and who value the research and accuracy behind the service.

The Embark Breed & Health Kit Dog DNA Test offers an impressive array of features for dog owners seeking comprehensive insights into their pets. It excels in breed identification, testing for over 350 breeds, including exotic ones like dingoes and wolves, using a reliable platform developed with Cornell University. This makes it highly accurate and trustworthy for determining your dog's breed composition. A standout feature is its health screening capability, which tests for over 270 genetic health conditions. This actionable insight allows pet owners to be proactive about their dog's health, potentially altering care plans as needed.

The trait analysis, covering 55 physical traits, helps owners understand their dog's characteristics and needs better, from size to grooming requirements. Additionally, the world's first canine relative finder is a unique and heartwarming feature that facilitates reconnecting with your dog's relatives, enhancing the joy of pet ownership. The sample collection method is straightforward; just swab the inside of your dog's mouth and send it off in a prepaid envelope. The turnaround time for results is relatively quick, ranging from 2 to 4 weeks, and customers are kept informed throughout the process.

Despite these strengths, the kit may be seen as relatively expensive compared to simpler DNA tests that offer fewer features. Also, the accuracy of relative finding may vary and might not always be as expected. However, with excellent customer service and support from dedicated vets and geneticists, Embark ensures users have access to expert advice when needed. This kit is ideal for dog owners who want a thorough understanding of their pet's breed, health, and traits, and who value having a comprehensive care plan.

The Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery Dog DNA Kit is a comprehensive option for those interested in understanding their dog's breed composition, health predispositions, and ancestry. One of its standout features is its extensive breed database, screening for over 365 breeds, which allows for highly accurate breed identification. This precision can be beneficial for dog owners wanting to tailor care and training to their pet’s specific needs.

In addition to breed identification, the kit offers a health screening component through the MDR1 test. This is particularly valuable for dog owners concerned about medication sensitivities, as it can help avoid adverse reactions to certain drugs. The ancestry and family tree feature is another intriguing aspect, providing insights into a dog's lineage and behavior, which can be fun and informative for owners interested in their pet's history.

The kit's sample collection method is user-friendly, involving a simple cheek swab, and it has a reasonable turnaround time of about 2 to 3 weeks. This is a fairly standard timeline in the dog DNA testing market. There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the database size is impressive, the product might not cover all possible genetic variations for every breed, which means some unique traits may not be detected. Additionally, while the ancestry feature traces back three generations, those looking for more extensive lineage details may need to look elsewhere.

The Wisdom Panel kit is a well-rounded choice for dog owners interested in a mix of breed identification and health insights, with the added bonus of exploring ancestry. Its ease of use and breadth of information make it appealing, though the depth of ancestry information might not satisfy all needs. It’s best suited for pet owners looking for a detailed yet straightforward DNA test.