Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test: A Comprehensive Review and Guide

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Posted Oct 9, 2024

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The Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test is a comprehensive genetic analysis that provides valuable insights into your dog's ancestry, breed mix, and potential health risks. It's a great tool for dog owners who want to understand their pet's genetic makeup and take proactive steps to maintain their health.

The test is designed for dogs of all breeds and mixes, and it can help identify potential health issues such as inherited conditions, genetic disorders, and traits related to size, coat type, and more. By analyzing over 350 genetic markers, the Embark test provides a detailed report that's easy to understand.

The results are based on a comprehensive database of over 250 breeds and 350 genetic markers, which allows for accurate identification of breed ancestry and potential health risks. This information can be used to inform breeding decisions, identify potential health issues, and even help with training and nutrition.

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Features and Benefits

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Knowing your dog's traits in advance is a game-changer for any pet owner. Your dog's size, coat, and grooming needs can make all the difference in providing the right care and attention.

Size matters, and understanding your dog's expected adult weight and height can help you plan for their future needs. This includes everything from food and exercise to living arrangements and veterinary care.

Your dog's coat type and grooming needs can be a significant consideration. Some breeds require regular brushing, while others are low-maintenance in this regard.

Understanding Your Results

The results from the Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test can be overwhelming, but don't worry, we're here to help you make sense of it all. The test identifies your dog's breed mix by comparing their DNA to over 350 breeds, types, and varieties.

The test results will show you the percentage of each breed in your dog's mix, as seen in the example of Diego, who has a mix of 350+ breeds. You can also see the breeds that are most likely to be present in your dog's ancestry.

Check this out: Pug Mix Dog

Credit: youtube.com, Embark for Breeders DNA Test Results!

The Embark test also provides a section that lists the traits of your dog, such as the likelihood of having blue eyes or a long coat. This is a great way to get a better understanding of your dog's characteristics and how they might be influenced by their breed mix.

One thing to keep in mind is that the results may not always be 100% accurate. In fact, the article mentions that the first DNA tests were not accurate, but the Wisdom Panel tests were more reliable. This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable testing company.

The Embark test also goes beyond breed identification and provides health screening for 270+ genetic health risks. This can give you valuable information about potential health issues your dog may face and allow you to take proactive steps to manage or prevent them.

Here's a breakdown of the health screening options:

  • Drug sensitivities
  • Degenerative diseases
  • Bleeding tendencies
  • And many more

The test also includes a Wolfiness Score, which measures the likelihood of your dog having wolf ancestry. While this doesn't necessarily mean your dog is part wolf, it can be a fun and interesting aspect of the test.

Finally, the Embark test offers the opportunity to participate in health and wellness assessments, which can provide valuable insights into your dog's diet, exercise, and overall health. By sharing information about your dog's daily calorie intake, you can get tailored advice on how to improve their nutrition and well-being.

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Choosing the Right Test

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If you're looking for a dog DNA test, you have a few options to consider. Research partners of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine developed the Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test, which is a great option for pet owners who just want to discover their dog's breed and family tree.

This test is developed by veterinarians and has 99% breed ancestry accuracy, making it a reliable choice. It's also a great option if you're on a budget, as it usually costs less than Embark's premium test.

Here are some key things to consider when choosing the right test for your dog:

  • Do you want to know your dog's breed history and family tree?
  • Are you interested in discovering your dog's relatives and potentially planning playdates?
  • Are you looking for a test that includes genetic condition screening and trait analysis?

Choosing the Right Test

Research has shown that a well-regarded research partner can make all the difference in the accuracy of a DNA test. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine is a research partner of Embark, a testament to the company's commitment to quality.

Developed by veterinarians, Embark's DNA tests are designed with the expertise of animal care professionals. This ensures that the tests are not only accurate but also relevant to the needs of dog owners.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Embark Test

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Embark's DNA tests boast an impressive 99% breed ancestry accuracy, giving you a clear picture of your dog's genetic background.

If you're considering a dog DNA test, it's essential to choose one that meets your needs and budget. Here are some key factors to consider:

Keep in mind that not all dog DNA tests are created equal, and some may be more suited to your needs than others. By doing your research and choosing a reputable test, you can get a more accurate picture of your dog's genetic background.

Best Overall:

The best overall dog DNA test is the Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test, which offers the most comprehensive results on the market.

Partnered with Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, Embark has developed a proprietary genotyping technology that aids in researching canine DNA.

This test kit uses 200,000 genetic markers to identify over 350 breeds, including wolf, dingo, and coyote hybrids, as well as over 190 health conditions across 16 different areas.

Crop anonymous female owner strolling with group of dogs of different breeds on leashes on rural road in sunny countryside
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The test results take up to five weeks to arrive, but Embark provides updates all the way until they're ready.

The Embark Breed & Health test kit is normally priced at $199, which may be worth the investment for pet owners who want a thorough understanding of their dog's ancestry and health.

With every kit, pet owners get access to the Embark Relative Finder database, where you can connect with the owners of dogs that share DNA with yours.

This feature alone is a great reason to choose Embark, especially if you're looking to learn more about your dog's family history.

Best for Mixed

If you have a mixed-breed dog, you'll want to choose a DNA test that's specifically designed for identifying breeds. The Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test is a great option for pet owners who just want to discover their dog's breed and family tree.

This test usually costs less than Embark's premium test, making it a more affordable choice. With your purchase, you get access to Embark's database for finding your dog's relatives, provided they've also had a DNA test performed by the company.

Credit: youtube.com, I Took 5 DNA Tests and Compared Them | Which One Is Best?

You can chat with their owners and even plan a playdate for your dog if they live close by. This test doesn't include screening for genetic conditions or traits, but you can later decide to get the reports by upgrading your account for an additional cost.

Here are some key features of the Embark Breed Identification kit:

  • Includes access to Embark’s database for finding your dog’s relatives
  • Informs you about the breed history of your pup
  • Provides personalized recommendations for exercise and diet
  • Clarifies your dog’s behavior based on breed makeup

Keep in mind that this test doesn't include results on certain breeds, so you may not get a complete picture of your dog's ancestry.

Kit Options and Accessories

The Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Collection Kit is an approachable priced test that provides insight into a dog's genetic makeup.

You can opt-in or out to an extended network connecting your dog to distant relatives, and the database includes information on 350+ breeds, 25+ genetic health conditions, and 35+ physical traits.

The sample collection process is relatively quick and easy, taking only 15 seconds to complete with a bristled tool that's similar to a mascara wand.

Credit: youtube.com, Dog DNA testing kits: How accurate are they? (Marketplace)

The sample is mailed back to Wisdom Panel in the same box it arrived in, clearly labeled with 'do not destroy', but it's recommended to exercise caution when opening your package to keep the box intact.

Results are delivered within a three-week window, and you can explore your results through the Wisdom Panel app and website, learning about the history of each related breed along with traits and characteristics that your dog may have inherited.

Removing or Comparing Results

The results from the Embark Vet DNA Test can be quite overwhelming, especially if you're new to genetic testing. Embark tests for 350+ breeds, so it's no wonder you might want to narrow down the results.

You can remove or compare results to get a clearer picture of your dog's ancestry. This section is particularly useful if you're trying to figure out your dog's breed mix.

Diego's story is a great example of how the Embark Vet DNA Test can unite a family. His results showed a mix of breeds, but you can't see the specifics without checking out his health results and relatives.

The Embark Vet DNA Test doesn't just stop at breed and health characteristics. It also includes a section that lists the traits of your dog, such as the likelihood of blue eyes or a long coat. This can be a fun way to learn more about your dog's appearance.

Dog Profiles and Family Ties

Credit: youtube.com, Using Embark DNA Tests as a dog breeding tool…very informative

With Embark, you can not only learn more about your dog's breed and health but also connect with their extended family. Embark recognizes littermates, as seen in the case of Rodrigo and Sydney, who were finally identified as littermates through the test.

You can also use Embark to get in touch with your dog's relatives. For example, a family who had one of Rodrigo and Sydney's cousins was contacted through the platform.

By joining Embark, you may be able to find other dogs from your dog's litter or family line.

Relative Finder

The Relative Finder is a game-changer for dog owners who want to connect with their pup's relatives. It's a feature offered by Embark Vet that allows you to meet your dog's relatives in their database.

With Embark's DNA test, you can identify how much DNA your dog shares with others in their database. This feature has helped reunite dogs with their parents, siblings, and even children.

Credit: youtube.com, Embark Reunites Sibling Pups Using New Relative Finder Feature

If you've rescued a dog from a large property like Rodrigo and Sydney, you might be surprised to find relatives in the database. In fact, one family was able to connect with a cousin of Rodrigo and Sydney after taking the DNA test.

The Relative Finder feature is especially useful for owners of mixed-breed dogs. By analyzing your dog's DNA, Embark can identify their breed mix and connect you with other dogs that share similar ancestry.

Here's a rough idea of what you might find in the Relative Finder database:

Keep in mind that the accuracy of the results may vary, but the Relative Finder feature is a great way to learn more about your dog's ancestry and connect with other dogs that share similar traits.

Rodrigo

Rodrigo is a fascinating dog with a unique mix of breeds. Rodrigo has 20.2% Border Collie in his DNA, which explains his high energy levels and intelligence.

Credit: youtube.com, Happy Dog Gets a Loving Forever Home | Pit Bulls & Parolees

His Border Collie heritage also makes him a natural herder, always eager to please and learn. Rodrigo's owner likely appreciates his ability to focus and respond to commands.

Rodrigo's breed mix is quite diverse, with a total of eight different breeds making up his DNA. Here's a breakdown of his breed percentages:

  • 20.2% Border Collie
  • 19.3% Australian Shepherd
  • 18.5% American Pit Bull Terrier
  • 12.3% Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler)
  • 10.3% English Springer Spaniel
  • 7.4% Shetland Sheepdog
  • 5.5% Rottweiler
  • 6.5% Supermutt (German Shepherd and Siberian Husky)

Rodrigo's Supermutt heritage, which combines German Shepherd and Siberian Husky, likely contributes to his agility and endurance. His owner may enjoy activities like hiking or agility training with him.

Sydney

Sydney, the lovable pup with a mix of breeds that makes her truly one-of-a-kind. Her DNA test results reveal a fascinating combination of her ancestry.

Australian Shepherd makes up a significant 18.6% of Sydney's DNA, which explains her high energy levels and strong herding instincts.

Border Collie is another prominent breed in Sydney's mix, accounting for 18.5% of her DNA. This breed is known for its intelligence and agility, traits that Sydney likely inherited.

A Man Surrounded by His Pet Dogs with Different Breed
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American Pit Bull Terrier contributes 17.7% to Sydney's genetic makeup, which might be responsible for her friendly and outgoing personality.

Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) is also part of Sydney's heritage, making up 12.6% of her DNA. This breed is known for its intelligence and strong work ethic, characteristics that Sydney likely exhibits.

Here's a breakdown of Sydney's breeds:

English Springer Spaniel makes up 10.1% of Sydney's DNA, which might contribute to her friendly and affectionate nature.

Shetland Sheepdog accounts for 8.7% of Sydney's genetic makeup, which could be responsible for her small size and big personality.

Rottweiler and Supermutt (German Shepherd and Chesapeake Bay Retriever) are also part of Sydney's heritage, making up 6.5% and 7.3% of her DNA respectively.

Dog Profiles and Family Ties

The Embark DNA test not only reveals your dog's breed and health risks, but also connects you with their extended family.

You can use Embark to get in touch with your dog's relatives, as one owner did with their littermates Rodrigo and Sydney.

Credit: youtube.com, Learn more about your weird little furball. | Embark Dog DNA Test

One family has already been contacted through Embark after discovering they had a cousin to Rodrigo and Sydney.

Finding family members through Embark can be a great way to connect with other owners who have purchased puppies from the same litter.

So far, one family has joined Embark after discovering they had a cousin to Scout and Zoey's litter.

Mary Steuber

Assigning Editor

Mary Steuber is a seasoned assigning editor with a passion for crafting compelling stories that engage and inform readers. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what resonates with audiences, she has successfully managed a diverse range of article topics, from in-depth breed profiles like "Cockapoo Breed Information" to more lighthearted and entertaining features. Mary's expertise lies in assigning talented writers to tackle complex and nuanced subjects, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

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