Dog Decoded

At Embark, we love finding out what makes dogs unique, down to their DNA. Join us as we decode dogs, from the history of domestication to the genes that code for canine traits.

Shedding is common in household dogs
Dog Decoded

Dog Shedding Explained

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When asked about dog shedding, many people looking to bring home a new pet would say they have a preference for non-shedding dogs. Between allergies and keeping the house clean, shedding dogs get a bit of a bad reputation. But the fact is most dogs shed. According to an Embark health survey, nearly half of...

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A woman and her dog look at each other and smile while sitting outside in tall grass.
Dog Decoded

Do Dogs Look Like Their Owners?

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You may have heard of the widely held belief that dogs look a lot like their owners—or vice versa, that people look a lot like their dogs. This idea has shown up in many different ways in pop culture, from the movie 101 Dalmatians to the game “Do You Look Like Your Dog?,” featuring matching...

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soldier holds dog
Dog Decoded

10 Things to Know About Military Dogs

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Military working dogs have a long history that dates back to ancient times. They are trained in combat to become scouts, sentries, trackers, and more. Military working dogs are typically, but not always, Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, and Dutch Shepherds. Here are 10 things to know about military working dogs: The first official military working...

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embark border collie eyes
Dog Decoded

Can Dogs See Color?

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Have you ever wondered if your dog can truly see all the colors we can? We’re sure you’ve heard it before, the idea that they might only see in black and white? This is merely an oft-repeated myth according to studies done by Dr. Jay Neitz, professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara. After...

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embark dog breeds for kids featured image
Dog Decoded

5 Dog Breeds That Are Great With Kids

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Children and their pup companions can make the best of pals. We know that families the world over have found comfort and joy in countless dog types. So check out this list of 5 surprising breeds, mentioned by the American Kennel Club, that might also make great playmates and wonderful besties for your kids. The...

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cat and dog
Dog Decoded

5 Cat-Friendly Dog Breeds

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Life is better with animals, and we don’t just mean dogs. If you have a pup at home and you would like to expand your furry family to include a cat, or if it’s the other way around, you’ve come to the right place. Many dogs can live with cat companions if they are socialized...

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basenji mix
Dog Decoded

Surprise! What You Need to Know About Your Basenji Mix

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I adopted my mutt Penny from an animal shelter in Rochester, NY. The shelter labeled her as a “Terrier-Basenji” mix. She certainly had the curly tail of a Basenji, but many dogs have curly tails. As a dog geneticist, I knew that if she truly was part Basenji, it would become very clear with a...

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