Embark is a well-known dog DNA testing company that offers a comprehensive test for breed and health. It analyzes over 350 breeds and 200 genetic health risks.
The test is easy to administer, requiring only a cheek swab from your dog. This makes it a convenient option for pet owners who want to learn more about their dog's ancestry and potential health issues.
Results are typically available within 2-4 weeks, and they provide a detailed report on your dog's breed makeup, genetic health risks, and traits. This information can be helpful in determining the best course of action for your dog's health and well-being.
Embark also offers a unique feature called "Traits", which provides information on your dog's physical characteristics, such as coat type and color. This can be a fun way to learn more about your dog's personality and appearance.
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What to Expect
The Embark DNA kit is easy to use, though it may take some time to figure out the packaging for mailing back the swabs. Registration online is required in advance.
The process of swabbing your dog's gums is the same as with other kits, but Embark only requires one swab, which means you need to be extra careful to avoid contamination. If the swab is compromised, there's no backup.
Results typically take two to four weeks to arrive, though it can take up to two months. In our experience, we received the first part of the results in 3.5 weeks, with the second set following a few days later.
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Research
Research has been a key part of Embark's mission to understand dog genetics.
In 2015, a team of scientists discovered that the origin of domestic dogs was near Central Asia, dating back 15,000 years.
Researchers at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine conducted the largest genetic study of dogs, collecting DNA samples from over 10,000 dogs worldwide.
This study was published in the journal Nature Communication in 2016.
In 2017, Embark worked with Cornell University to identify the genetic mutation that causes blue eyes in dogs, testing over 6,000 dogs of various breeds.
A genetic tweak in Siberian Huskies was discovered to be responsible for blue eyes in dogs.
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Ease of Use: Easy
The Embark DNA kit is easy to use, though Wisdom Panel was the simplest of all the tests we tried. You'll need to register your kit online in advance, which is a straightforward process.
The process of swabbing your dog's DNA is the same as with other kits, but Embark only requires one swab, not two. This makes it extra important to be careful, as there's no backup if the swab is compromised or contaminated.
It typically takes two to four weeks to get the results, though it can take up to two months. We received the first part of our results back in 3.5 weeks and the second set of results a few days after that.
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Kit Details
The Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test Kit is a comprehensive tool that provides a wealth of information about your furry friend. It includes a cheek swab, a vial to place the swab in, and an envelope to send the swab to the company's lab for analysis.
The kit is best used by the date printed directly on the swab to ensure DNA extraction goes smoothly. If the swab exceeds its best-by date or a DNA sample failure occurs due to materials, Embark support will provide a fresh swab upon purchase verification.
The Embark kit screens for over 350 dog breeds, using a research-grade genotyping platform developed in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. This makes it the most accurate breed breakdown on the market.
The kit also includes health screening for 171 health conditions, providing a detailed picture of your dog's potential health risks. This comprehensive approach makes the Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test Kit a valuable tool for dog owners who want to understand their pet's genetic makeup.
Here are the key features of the Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test Kit:
- Breed identification for over 350 dog breeds
- Health screening for 171 health conditions
- Relative finder to connect with your pup's family
- Fast results in 2-4 weeks, with dedicated support from vets and geneticists
Reports
Reports from Embark are detailed and informative, providing you with a clear understanding of your dog's breed and genetic health.
You'll receive a sample report online, featuring a fun touch, such as a photo of the CEO's dog, Harley. Throughout the process, Embark keeps you informed via email, from the kit being en route to the lab results.
The final email includes a small doughnut chart with initial breed results and a hint of wolf DNA in your dog. For the full results, you log in via the My Embark site, where you can print PDF reports.
The full results are comprehensive, including breed determination and genetic health issues. For example, Embark correctly identified a pure-bred dog as a golden retriever at 100% breed accuracy.
Madison, a mixed-breed dog, had a diverse breed mix, including American pit bull terrier, Shetland sheepdog, and English springer spaniel. The breed percentages varied slightly between two identical tests, but the top breed was consistently pit bull terrier.
Embark's family tree view breaks out the breed parentage, making it easy to understand your dog's ancestry. This feature is particularly useful for mixed-breed dogs like Madison.
Here are some key features of Embark's reports:
- Initial breed results in a small doughnut chart
- Hint of wolf DNA in your dog
- Comprehensive breed determination
- Genetic health issues identified
- Family tree view with breed parentage
Features and Pricing
The Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test offers a range of features that set it apart from other tests on the market. With the ability to test for over 270 genetic health conditions, you'll get actionable insights to give your pup the best care possible.
This test has been shown to be effective, with 37% of dog owners changing how they care for their dog after receiving their test results. You'll also get a most accurate breed identification, testing for over 350 dog breeds including dingoes, coyotes, wolves, and village dogs.
The Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test also provides trait insights that help you be more prepared, testing for 55 physical traits such as size, coat, and grooming needs. This information can help you make informed decisions about your dog's care and well-being.
Here are the key features of the Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test:
- ACTIONABLE HEALTH INSIGHTS: Test for over 270 genetic health conditions
- MOST ACCURATE BREED IDENTIFICATION: Test for over 350 dog breeds
- TRAIT INSIGHTS THAT HELP YOU BE MORE PREPARED: Test for 55 physical traits
- WORLD'S FIRST CANINE RELATIVE FINDER: Find and connect with your dog's relatives
- EXCELLENT SERVICE & FAST RESULTS: Generally delivers results in 2-4 weeks
As for the price, you can expect to pay $199 for the breed and health kit, or $129 for the kit without health information. This is the most expensive option on the market, but it offers a level of detail and accuracy that's hard to find elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
Embark is the most accurate and comprehensive canine DNA test.
The medical tests offered by Embark alone make it worthwhile for dog owners.
This is especially true for dedicated dog owners who want to get a deeper understanding of their pet's health.
The kit provides more data than even the most dedicated dog owners may want, but it's a small price to pay for peace of mind.
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Features
Embark's dog DNA test offers a wealth of information to help you understand your furry friend's health and ancestry.
The test can identify over 270 genetic health conditions, providing you with actionable insights to give your pup the best care possible. This means you can intervene earlier and work with your veterinarian to create a personalized care plan.
You'll also get the most accurate breed identification on the market, with over 350 dog breeds included in the test, such as dingoes, coyotes, wolves, and village dogs.
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Embark's test can also reveal 55 physical traits about your dog, including size, coat, and grooming needs.
One of the unique features of Embark's test is its canine relative finder, which uses patented technology to find your dog's family members based on their shared DNA. This feature has led to nearly one million messages exchanged for countless happy reunions.
The test results are delivered in 2-4 weeks, and Embark's dedicated vets and geneticists are available to answer any questions you may have.
Here's a quick summary of the test's features:
- Identifies over 270 genetic health conditions
- Most accurate breed identification on the market (over 350 breeds)
- Reveals 55 physical traits about your dog
- Canine relative finder to connect with your dog's family members
- Results delivered in 2-4 weeks
- Dedicated vets and geneticists available to answer questions
Price: A Penny
The price of genetic testing kits can vary significantly. The Embark breed and health kit is the most expensive option, with a retail price of $199.
You can expect to pay around $50 to $80 for a basic genetic test, but these kits won't provide the same level of information as the Embark kit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Embark DNA testing located?
Embark is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Learn more about our team and research in canine genomics and biotechnology.
What is the #1 dog DNA test?
The #1 dog DNA test is Embark, known for its accuracy and comprehensive results. Embark provides more data than most dog owners need, but its medical tests alone make it a worthwhile investment.
Is Embark DNA health worth it?
Embark DNA health is a reliable option, with breed results accuracy ranging from 95% to 99% and a comprehensive genetic-disease detection tool that screens for 210 mutations
What DNA test do vets recommend for dogs?
Vets recommend Embark and Wisdom Panel as top dog DNA test kits, with Embark testing over 230,000 genetic markers. These two brands stand out for their high-quality results and comprehensive genetic analysis.
How accurate is an Embark health test?
Our Embark health tests boast an accuracy rate of above 99.99% due to the use of multiple redundant probes for each health condition. This exceptional accuracy ensures you can trust the results of your Embark health test.
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