Featured

What Makes Embark the Best Dog DNA Test?

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While there are many companies out there claiming to have the best dog DNA test, only Embark offers the most scientifically advanced one. Our team is made up of scientists, veterinary geneticists, and other experts in the field who are all committed to helping dogs live their healthiest lives. Keep reading to find out why...

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A mixed-breed dog looking up against teal background.
Featured

How Accurate Are Dog DNA Tests?

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The journey of testing your dog’s DNA begins with a swab. After you collect saliva from inside your dog’s cheeks and mail the swab, it arrives at Embark’s CLIA-certified, canine-approved laboratory for processing. The DNA is extracted for analysis under state-of-the-art laboratory conditions. The DNA sample is then run on Embark’s custom-made genetics chip, the...

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An Australian Shepherd dog getting their mouth swabbed for a dog DNA test.
Featured

How Do Dog DNA Tests Work?

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You probably know that DNA testing, for animals or for humans, involves sending in a saliva or blood sample and waiting for the results. But what happens to your dog’s sample after it gets to the Embark lab? Let’s break down the science behind how dog DNA tests work. How do dog DNA tests work?...

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All Dog DNA Testing articles

A black mixed-breed dog named Vardis wears a seasonal autumn bandana while standing in a pile of leaves.
How Dog DNA Testing Works

How DNA Testing Helps Shelter Dogs Get Adopted

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Animal shelters across the country have told us that DNA testing can help rescue dogs get adopted. By providing important genetic information, dog DNA testing helps shelters give prospective adopters insights into a dog’s breed mix, characteristics they might have, and more. At Embark, we believe that everyone should get to spend the holidays with...

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A mixed-breed dog named Nelle next to Embark results showing her breed mix: 42.4% Australian Shepherd, 16.9% German Shepherd Dog, 8.5% Beagle, 8.4% Golden Retriever, 7.8% Collie, 7.6% Australian Cattle Dog, 4.3% Labrador Retriever, 4.1% Supermutt.
Understanding Results

What is a “Supermutt”?

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You might be surprised to receive your dog’s breed results and find that a percentage of their breed ancestry comes from “Supermutt.” But what exactly is Supermutt? We hear this question often at Embark. Here, we’ll explain what “Supermutt” means, how Embark scientists match your dog’s DNA to different breeds, and why a “Supermutt” result...

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Understanding Results

A Veterinarian Explains What Your Dog’s Mast Cell Tumor Risk Means

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As part of our genetic health screening, Embark dog DNA tests can determine if some dogs are at increased risk of developing mast cell tumors (MCTs). This risk is based on genetic breed ancestry and other factors. This model offers a new way to estimate relative risk for MCTs, especially for mixed-breed dogs. We know...

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A brown and white mixed-breed dog looks up in front of a teal background.
Understanding Results

Dog Genetics 101

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Genetics is the study of how DNA is passed down from one generation to the next. It is a complicated, always-changing field. Here, we’ll explain the basic concepts in dog genetics and define some genetics terms that you might see in your dog’s Embark results. Key terms in dog genetics explained You may see some...

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Understanding Results

Can You Register a Dog With a DNA Test?

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Can you register a dog with a DNA test? This is a question we’re asked often. Let’s look at the difference between a registered purebred dog and a single-breed ancestry DNA result and why the two terms are very different and should not be used interchangeably.  What’s the difference between purebred status and single-breed DNA...

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A brown-and-white mixed breed dog looks up, sitting next to a blue Embark Dog DNA Test kit.
Choosing a Dog DNA Test

Embark vs Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Tests

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When comparing dog DNA tests, we know the choice can be overwhelming. Here, we explore some of the differences between Embark vs Wisdom Panel dog DNA tests, and explain why Embark is the best choice for your dog. Jump to: Why Embark? | For dog owners | For breeders |  For veterinarians   Embark vs...

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A brown-and-white mixed-breed dog smiling while laying down in the grass.
Breed Surprise

Top 10 Most Common Breeds in Embark-Tested Dogs

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Can you guess the top 10 most common breeds in mixed-breed dogs? If you’ve tested your dog with Embark, you may know that breed ancestry doesn’t always dictate appearance, leading to some surprises. We often receive questions from customers about the breeds in their dog’s genetic ancestry—especially the unexpected ones.  We analyzed genetic data from...

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Choosing a Dog DNA Test

How Much Does a Dog DNA Test Cost?

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How much does a dog DNA test cost? The answer might be more complicated than you think. When comparing dog DNA test costs, it’s important to keep in mind a few different factors: the accuracy of the test, the value of the information you get, and the impact to your dog’s future health. Dog DNA...

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Accuracy

The Most Accurate Dog DNA Test

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What is the most accurate dog DNA test? The answer to that question depends on a few different factors, like what technology the test uses, how much genetic information is captured in the results, and more. Embark is proud to offer the most accurate dog DNA test on the market today. But how can you...

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Australian Shepherd dog next to green Dog DNA Test box on blue background
Choosing a Dog DNA Test

5 Myths About Purebred Dog DNA Tests

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There are many misconceptions about purebred dog DNA tests. Did you know that DNA testing can help breeders, owners, and veterinarians make proactive choices that address breed-specific health conditions and traits? Breeders know that genetic testing is an important part of producing healthy purebred puppies, and thousands of breeders have trusted Embark to help manage...

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Understanding Results

Discover Your Dog’s Genetic Relatives with Embark’s Relative Finder

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Embark offers the world’s first and only canine relative finder, so you can further explore your dog’s DNA story. Our Relative Finder shows your dog’s relatives based on how much DNA they share. It also gives you the ability to connect with their owners. In fact, it has already led to several family reunions, like...

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Accuracy

Dog DNA Testing Industry Report for Breeders

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The AKC Canine Health Foundation (AKC CHF) and the Orthopedic Foundations for Animals (OFA) published the Review of the Current State of Genetic Testing – A Living Resource in 2020. It is an extremely useful guide for both novice and long-time breeders. Not only does it provide practical explanations of genetics and scientific testing methods...

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Dog DNA Testing

Learn all about dog DNA testing with expert guidance designed for veterinarians, pet owners, and breeders. These resources answer common questions about the dog DNA testing process, from comparing dog DNA tests to understanding what a dog’s genetic results could mean for their health.

At Embark, science is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why our scientists are hard at work making new discoveries in canine genetics. Dive into the science behind topics like how dog DNA tests work, which dog DNA tests are accurate, and how we can use genetics to help dogs live healthier lives.