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Embark Dog DNA Test Review

9.2

Have you ever wondered about your dog’s genetic makeup? Have you considered that your “mutt” may actually be a descendant of an ancient dog pack or any one of the hundreds of dog breeds throughout the world?

If you have, the Embark Veterinary dog DNA test is an incredible way to learn more about your pet. With loads of testing options to choose from, you can find out about your dog’s genetic makeup, breed standard, allergies, health, age, and more. Here's our in-depth review of Embark Veterinary dog DNA tests.

Pros


  • Results in 2-4 weeks
  • Easy sample collection
  • Gut health testing
  • Relative finder

Cons


  • No cat testing
  • No behavior scores

About Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Tests

Embark Veterinary dog DNA tests are just one of the many products you’ll find through Embark. In addition to DNA testing, they offer dog age tests and testing for dog gut health.

With your test results, you’ll also receive custom supplement recommendations to improve the life and health of your dog. From gut and allergy supplements to joint and multi-vitamins, you’ll find everything you need in one place.

If you find yourself impressed with multiple products, you’ll love the option to bundle tests and allergies. These bundles are an incredible way to take advantage of all Embark offers, while saving big!

Features and Benefits

Embark Vet’s dog DNA test kits are affordable, starting at just $125. For that one flat rate, you’ll receive the kit, testing materials, paid shipping label, and results.

  • Starting at $125

  • Results in 2-4 weeks

  • Easy sample collection

  • Gut health testing

  • Relative finder

  • Supplements and bundles

Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Testing Reviews: Editorial Rating

Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for Company name: 9.2

Embark Veterinary Dog DNA testing came in #2 on our list of the Best Pet DNA Testing Kits, and for good reason. The company currently holds the second-largest dog DNA database, with over 2.5 million samples, and offers a wide range of DNA testing options at affordable rates. Furthermore, it provides recommendations and supplements based on your pet’s results, something you won’t find with other companies.

Embark Dog DNA Test

Price

Dog or Cat Testing

Standout Feature

Starting at $125

Dogs Only

Health Testing & Supplements

Why We Like It

Embark Veterinary is a clear stand-out in the field of pet DNA testing. Its testing options surpass those of other organizations, offering options for assessing gut health and receiving personalized supplement recommendations tailored to the results. With such a well-rounded array of options, Embark Veterinary is a fantastic choice for dog owners primarily concerned with learning about their pet’s health status.

What We Don't Like

Unfortunately, unlike many of its competitors, Embark Veterinary has not yet begun testing on cats. If you are looking for DNA testing for cats, head over to our list of the Best Pet DNA Testing Companies to find one that caters to your feline friend.

Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Test Details

Embark Veterinary offers a wide variety of dog DNA test options. You can choose to test your dog for their age, gut health, breed, and ancestry, overall health, allergies, traits, and more.

Embark Veterinary Tests

Dog DNA Test (Breed + Health

Dog DNA Test (Breed Identification)

Dog DNA Test for Purebred Pets

Dog Age Test

Dog Gut Health Test

$199

$129

$199

$159

$125

Tests for over 400 dog breeds, types, and varieties

Tests for over 400 dog breeds, types, and varieties

Tests for over 400 dog breeds, types, and varieties

Estimated age

Bacterial imbalance detection

Identify dog ancestry

Identify dog ancestry

Identify dog ancestry

Estimated birthday

Personalized recommendations to restore gut health

Identify pet relatives through the Family tree

Identify pet relatives through the Family tree

Identify pet relatives through the Family tree

Life stage insights

Identify improvements with repeated testing

270 genetic health screenings

270 genetic health screenings

Allergy risk score

Allergy risk score

55 trait tests

55 trait tests

Accuracy

Embark Veterinary has tested over 2.5 million dogs. With so many tests under its belt, its accuracy is top-notch. Furthermore, the company exceeds industry standards with rigorous quality control and meticulous inspection of DNA samples and results.

Turnaround Time

Once Embark technicians receive your dog’s DNA sample, it can take up to 2 days to scan the kit into its system and begin processing. You can expect to receive your test results within 2-4 weeks from that time.

You can follow along in the process by logging into your Embark account for updates. When your results are ready, Embark will send you an email or text. Then, just sign in to view your dog’s results.

Ease of Use

Using the EmbarkVet DNA kit to test your dog is simple. After you place your order, the kit will arrive with complete instructions and materials to collect your dog’s DNA sample.

Before you begin, activate your kit, then read the instructions carefully. Utilize the soft swab to collect saliva from your dog’s mouth gently, then place the saliva into the tube and mail it to Embark using the return mailer.

Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Test Customer Reviews

Embark Veterinary has a 1.6/5 star rating on TrustPilot, with consumers expressing frustration related to difficulties contacting Embark and the test's limitations concerning dogs from outside the USA.

However, the company has a 100% TrustScore with scamadviser.com, indicating that its site is considered safe to use. They also have a 4.2/5 star rating on Google, with many consumers expressing great satisfaction with their testing process and results.

Furthermore, Embark Veterinary Dog DNA is the official Dog DNA testing company partner of the Westminster Kennel Club for the 5th consecutive year. Clearly, it's a trusted name!

Who Is Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Testing Best For?

Embark Vet’s dog DNA tests are best suited for pup parents concerned primarily with their pet’s health. With highly detailed health testing and recommendations, you can easily get a clear picture of your pet’s health conditions and risks. Then, utilize those test results to choose the best pet food and supplements for your dog.

Furthermore, if you find that your dog is genetically predisposed to certain medical conditions, you can prepare ahead of time by purchasing a pet health insurance policy from one of the top pet insurance companies and working with your vet to monitor and care for symptoms as they arise.

Embark Veterinary Dog DNA Test Alternatives

Embark is a strong choice for pet parents focused on health and wellness, but it isn’t the only option on the market. Depending on your priorities, like budget, cat testing, or turnaround speed, you may want to explore other providers featured in our overview of the best pet DNA companies.

  • Wisdom Panel: Largest DNA database in the world with highly accurate breed identification.

  • Basepaws: Cat-focused DNA testing with detailed health and breed reports for felines.

  • Paw Print Genetics & Orivet: Affordable testing options for both cats and dogs, with a dedicated breeder app.

  • Alpha Dog DNA: New player offering exceptionally fast 5–10 day turnaround times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Village Dog?

If your pup’s DNA results show “village dog” as part of their ancestry, you may be wondering what that means. Village dogs, sometimes referred to as island dogs, pariah dogs, or free-range dogs, are dogs that live near and among humans but are not fully domesticated. Furthermore, because village dogs are not selectively bred, their appearance, size, health, and behavior can vary widely.

What is Pair Predictor?

Breeders using selective breeding to produce pups with specific traits can utilize the Embark Veterinary dog DNA test kit to estimate the likelihood of a dam (female) and sire (male) producing puppies with those traits. To take advantage of Embark’s Pair Predictor tool, you must sign up for a breeder account and utilize the genetic health and trait results for sires and dams listed on your account.

About Author

Tammy McKinney, RN

Tammy McKinney, RN

Tammy McKinney, RN, is a seasoned registered nurse and accomplished healthcare and personal finance writer. With a background in acute care, long-term care, and hospice & palliative care, Tammy combines her medical expertise with her passion for writing to educate and inform the public on various health and finance-related topics.