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 test costs for dog owners
The cost of a dog DNA test can range from $68 to $199. Depending on your budget and the type of information you’re looking for, you have a few different options.
Embark Breed ID Test
- Regular Price
$129
- Sale Price
- $99
The Embark Breed ID Kit is a great dog DNA test option if you’re only interested in knowing your dog’s breed mix. The Breed ID Kit tests for 350+ breeds—more breeds than any other DNA test. We’ll give you the full breakdown of your dog’s breed mix, plus connect you with your dog’s relatives. If you change your mind later and want to know your dog’s health risks, you can upgrade to the Breed + Health Kit anytime.
Embark Breed + Health Test
- Regular Price
$199
- Sale Price
- $149
The Embark Breed + Health Kit is the best dog DNA test if you want a complete picture of your dog’s genetic health risks, as well as their ancestry. The Breed + Health Kit tests for 270+ genetic health risks and 55 physical traits, in addition to everything the Breed ID Kit tests for.
Embark DNA Test for Purebred Dogs
- Regular Price
$199
- Sale Price
- $149
If you have a purebred dog, the Embark Purebred Dog DNA Test is right for you. It’s the same price as the Breed + Health Kit and contains the same genetic health testing. We’ve changed the user experience of the Purebred Kit so that it shows dog owners the most important information for purebred pets—like your dog’s health risks and genetic diversity score.
(If you purchased a Breed + Health Kit and want to switch to a Purebred Kit, it’s no problem. Just email our Customer Support Team at howdy@embarkvet.com and they can help switch you over to a Purebred Dog Owner profile.)
Embark dog DNA tests often go on sale and are available for much less than full price. See the most up-to-date deals on Embark kits to save money with our discount codes and coupons.
Dog DNA kits for breeders and vets
Embark offers dog DNA kits for breeders and veterinarians.
Embark for Breeders dog DNA test kits
- Sale Price
- $119-$149 per test
The Embark for Breeders DNA Kit is available with tiered pricing, and each kit comes with the My Embark for Breeders online tools and services, including free consultations for results, assessing breeding pairs, and predicted litter COI.
Embark for Veterinarians dog DNA test kits
- Sale Price
Looking to bring canine genetic testing into your veterinary practice? We offer testing designed for veterinarians, with a veterinary report that fits into your standard workflows and dedicated support every step of the way.
Accuracy of dog DNA tests
When considering the cost of a dog DNA test, it’s important to look at not just the price of the test, but also the accuracy and value of the information it gives you. How accurate are the results? How do you know if you can trust the science behind them?
Rest assured that with an Embark DNA test, you’re getting the most accurate dog DNA test on the market. We’ve invested in the most advanced canine microarray. All Embark dog DNA tests were developed by veterinarians and scientists in collaboration with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Learn more about what makes Embark the best dog DNA test out there.
Comparing dog DNA test costs
When looking at the overall cost of different dog DNA tests, it helps to ask a few questions. How much is the test itself? How accurate is the test? Are there experts who can help explain the DNA results? Are there any hidden costs, like the price of shipping?
As this DNA testing company advises, “Be wary of prices from laboratories that appear too low. Sometimes that unrealistically reduced price comes at the expense of other important parts of testing. Remember, cost is important, but it’s not the only consideration when choosing a provider you can trust.”
At Embark, we strive to be transparent about dog DNA test costs. We test more places in the dog genome than any other dog DNA company, meaning you’ll get more reliable results. Our scientists are always working to add the latest genetic health insights to our tests. We have veterinary geneticists on staff who can review any health concerns in your dog’s results. And did we mention shipping is always free?
Compare Embark dog DNA tests and see which one is right for you.
Value of dog DNA tests
Instead of testing for one disease or one variant at a time, a comprehensive dog DNA test looks at lots of different variants and health conditions at the same time. This means that you get multiple health tests bundled into one for convenience and cost savings. The Embark Breed + Health Kit tests for 270+ genetic health risks, and that number is always growing.
Also be sure to consider the long-term value when comparing dog DNA test costs. It’s worthwhile to invest in a dog DNA test that has the scientific backing to bring you new discoveries about your dog’s health. Embark is the only dog DNA test that uses research-grade DNA technology, so that we can make new discoveries that benefit all dogs.
When scientists find new genetic health risks, whether that’s tomorrow or five years from now, we’ll keep updating our tests so that we’re always using the latest scientific information.
DNA insights can lead to lower healthcare costs
While cheaper dog DNA tests cost less initially, high-quality dog DNA tests can save you money in the long run.
Your dog’s genetics can help you anticipate health issues they might have in the future and prepare for those risks as early as puppyhood. In some cases, this information can be life-saving. It can help you catch risks early, avoid expensive medical procedures, or work with your veterinarian on a personalized medical care plan that accounts for your dog’s unique needs.
For example, many dogs reach adulthood before they show any signs of urinary stones or other urinary issues. At that point, it might require expensive surgery to remove them. A dog DNA test can identify certain genetic risk factors for developing cystine or urate stones, so that you and your veterinarian know what to look for before it happens. If caught early, it can usually be managed with a special diet, so that your dog can avoid complications later in life.
So how much is a dog DNA test, really?
Finding the dog DNA test that gives you the most value for your money can be daunting. But the key is to look for a test that gives you valuable health insights, accurate results, and a complete picture of your dog’s genetic health.
By treating a dog DNA test as an investment in your dog’s health, you can continue benefiting not only from the science of today, but also the discoveries of tomorrow.
