Dog DNA tests are so popular, but what doe they really tell you? Our staff researched the different brands and narrowed down what's available to the five we think are the most reliable dog DNA tests on the market. Why take a dog DNA test?
The purpose is to be proactive when it comes to your dog's health. What better way to determine potential health conditions than a breed test for your mutt! With that in mind, knowing your dog's ancestry is super important and if you own a purebred you will also want to know the details these kits reveal! Don't you want to know what hereditary diseases are possible as your dog ages?
How Do They Work?
According to CeraPet.com, the dog DNA test kits are mainly the same with similar steps.
Step 1: Remove a swab from the packet
Step 2: Firmly twirl the swab on the inside of your canine's cheek for around 20 seconds. Use treats!
Step 3: Place the swab into the insert in the packaging and allow for it to air dry for around 5 minutes and then repeat steps 1-3 with the second swab
Step 4: Activate the dog DNA test online (with whichever company you are doing the test).
Step 5: Apply LABEL #1 to the swab sleeve
Step 6: Insert the swabs back into the sleeve and DO NOT SEAL IT. (All kinds of things will grow in there if it doesn't stay dry)
These are the steps from the Wisdom Panel 3.0 DNA Test (below) and most kits are similar. There are some exceptions of course but a cheek swab is what's used for samples.
Brand Comparison: Purchasing The Right Kit
Check out the different types of DNA test kits available for your dog:
1. Embark
The Embark Dog DNA Test Kit for Breed Identification examines over 200,000 genetic markers using the most advanced techniques available. This gives them the ability to offer the most accurate breed identification available so that you can learn about the breeds that make up your pup and answer, "So what is your dog?" They have a doggie dashboard for pet owners.
You can see your dog's family tree for $129.00.
2. Wisdom Health Panel
This dog DNA test features two swabs for fast, easy collection and shipping to the lab. Results come within 2-3 weeks from the time the sample arrives.
Important Information: The Wisdom Panel test was developed using pure breeds primarily from those found on The Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club registry lists.
This ancestry testing kit is available for $79.77.
3. DNA My Dog
This testing kit is an inexpensive, quick, easy and non-invasive way to determine the percentage of the breed, personality traits, and exercise levels of your dog at any age.
This simple cheek swab test is available for $68.98.
4. Find My Pet DNA
This brand takes the approach closer to Human DNA testing by helping you discover the deeper ancestry of your pet.
5. Identibreed Complete Dog Test
IdentiBreed uses genetic markers to discover your dogs breed makeup and to learn about your dog's genetic health.
The kit is available for$59.00.
These five dog DNA test kits are the best DNA tests on the market. Pet owners want to know what the health risks are for certain dog breeds! Whether you have a mixed breed, collie, Chihuahua, German Shepherd, Chow, Golden Retriever, Cattle Dog, Staffordshire, or rescue dog- the DNA results from these dog DNA tests will identify potential health issues that pet owners need on their radar. All five of these DNA tests are available on Amazon.
A simple cheek swab can provide insight into possible genetic health conditions. We'd love to hear from you if you try any of these and the results that the DNA tests generate for your four-legged friend.
Have you used a DNA breed test yet? Please share in the comments below as we'd love to hear about it!
