Updated on Mar. 18, 2025
Uncover the secrets your dog can't tell you, such as breed type and health risks, with one of our top picks for best dog DNA test kit.
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Home DNA tests are widely available now, and their results have either confirmed what people already know about their genetic heritage, or they’ve revealed some big surprises. But beyond sheer curiosity, DNA tests can help you discover what potential health or disease risks may be encoded in your genetic makeup.
That same combination of curiosity and concern may lead you to try a doggie DNA test. That’s right, there are now dog DNA tests that will help you uncover answers to questions you wish you could ask your dog. The best dog DNA tests will tell you more than just your pup’s genetic profile.
Knowing what’s in the dog’s DNA can alert you to specific physical issues. For example, some breeds are prone to respiratory issues or hip dysplasia. So having an idea of his genetic makeup can go a long way toward keeping that beloved fur baby healthy for many years.
To help you decide which one is right for your canine companion, here’s a look at the best dog DNA test kits. If there are any dog lovers on your shopping list, these tests make perfect gifts.
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We like the all-inclusive coverage of this dog DNA test kit from Petco. The personalized results show your dog’s breed (including percentages of all breeds detected), potential medical issues your pet may develop and what your pup’s ancestors might have looked like.
The test has more than 12,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, many from dog owners like L. Ramsey, “I read the reviews and was interested to see what type of dog our small dog was mixed with. WOW, the results were amazing. They got the color of his coat correct, that he has short fur, his size, weight range and even his floppy ears. There was nothing in his results that was incorrect. I recommend Wisdom Panel Essential dog DNA kit if you are curious about what your fur baby might be mixed with.”
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Compared to other kits that make the same claims, this dog DNA test kit from Orivet is a relative value. It screens hundreds of breeds, and we like that it includes a care plan tailored to your dog’s specific genetic makeup. The company will also send reminders for your dog’s check-ups or vaccines.
Of course, solving the mystery of your dog’s breed mix is the most fun part for a lot of users, like Jennipher L., “I ordered DNA My Dog at first and they immediately came back with 100% of one breed. I knew that wasn’t correct so I ordered Orivet. Their results were so thorough and showed a total of three breeds. The results took a month so be patient but well worth it.”
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The Embark Dog DNA Breed ID & Health Test Kit is one of the most comprehensive dog DNA test kits currently on the market. With a simple saliva swab, the test results will identify your dog’s breed, show his family tree and nearest relatives (if they’re also in the database) and provide insight into genetic predisposition to drug sensitivities, degenerative diseases and other potential concerns.
“After we adopted our dog, Huey, I scoured through countless forums to find the best DNA kit to find out his breed. He was only 5 months old when we found him abandoned on the side of the road, so we really had no clue what his background was,” writes Nicole Doster, Content Director, Strategy & Performance.
“When we finally landed on Embark, I was worried that our results would come back as inconclusive or as a ‘Super Mutt’ as I had heard happened to a few online, but it was quite the opposite. Embark was able to identify the breeds of his parents, grandparents and even his great-grandparents. I would highly recommend this to parents of rescue dogs who want to know their fur baby’s breed!”
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If your pet is chronically scratching his coat or chewing his paws—or if he has digestive problems that you can’t resolve—chances are he’s intolerant to something he’s eating or something in the environment. Unlike saliva swab tests, 5Strands tests via pet hair, which you collect and send in. Within 10 days, online results show your dog’s intolerances to common pet food ingredients, as well as intolerances to grass, chemicals and other substances (be sure you’re using a pet-safe pesticide).
Several five-star reviewers refer to this test as a life-saver. Brooke LeMay calls it a game changer: “After spending a ton of money treating her unknown intolerances we decided to look into a way to test them so we could care for her better and help her itchiness…it turns out our girl was intolerant to some of the ingredients in her dog food,” she says.
“She also struggled with some environmental factors such as grass and ants. These intolerances were causing her rashes and itchiness which is no longer a problem. We’ve switched her to a food that was recommended by the veterinarian nutritionist through 5strands and she is doing wonderful! No more monthly rashes, vet visits or bills!”
When investing in a dog DNA test, accuracy is a top priority. Dr. Amanda Chambers, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, emphasizes that not all tests are created equal. “The ones I trust are Wisdom Panel and Embark, both of which boast accuracy rates of 98-99%. DNA tests that test for fewer genetic markers will be less accurate,” she explains. To ensure you receive reliable results, opt for a test that analyzes a broad range of genetic markers and has been validated by scientific research.
Understanding your dog’s breed composition can be fascinating, especially for mixed-breed owners. High-quality DNA tests provide a detailed breakdown of breed ancestry, sometimes even offering a family tree of your pup’s lineage. Dr. Chambers notes that breed identification is more reliable when a test has access to a comprehensive genetic database. “Some at-home tests are not as accurate as others, which can lead to misleading results. If you’re just curious about your dog’s breed, a lower-tier test may suffice, but if accuracy matters, it’s worth paying extra for a reputable brand.
A key advantage of dog DNA testing is its ability to detect genetic health risks. “A quality DNA test can detect the presence of certain genes that may predispose a pet to develop conditions such as Degenerative Myelopathy, Dilated Cardiomyopathy or MDR1 drug sensitivity,” says Dr. Chambers. However, she cautions that a positive result doesn’t guarantee a dog will develop the condition. “The presence of a certain gene does not always mean a pet will develop the disorder; it just means they are at a higher risk. Owners should reach out to their veterinarian if they have questions after receiving the results.”
Some tests also provide insights into carrier status, which can be valuable for breeders concerned about reproductive health. Additionally, a few premium options include lifestyle recommendations based on genetic data, such as diet and exercise suggestions tailored to your pet’s unique needs.
Most dog DNA tests are designed for at-home use and involve collecting a saliva sample using a cheek swab. Choosing a test with clear instructions can make the process smoother. While at-home kits typically rely on saliva samples, some veterinary clinics, like Dr. Chambers’, offer blood-based DNA testing, which may yield more concentrated results. “Both can be accurate, but a blood sample is just more concentrated with your pet’s DNA,” she explains.
The processing speed of DNA tests varies by brand. Some companies provide results in as little as two weeks, while others may take up to a month. If you’re eager to get answers quickly, check the estimated turnaround time before purchasing. Additionally, many tests offer digital access to results, making it easy to review findings on your phone or computer.
A reliable DNA testing company should offer strong customer support, including assistance with interpreting results. Some brands even provide access to veterinary consultations. “If you have concerns about genetic health risks, consult your veterinarian to understand what the results mean for your dog’s well-being,” Dr. Chambers advises.
Beyond breed identification and health screening, some dog DNA tests include bonus features like a relative finder, which can help you connect with dogs that share DNA with your pet. Others offer behavioral insights, predicting temperament traits based on genetic markers. While these extras may not be essential, they can add value to your testing experience.
Before purchasing, check the company’s return policy and satisfaction guarantee. Some brands offer money-back guarantees if results are inconclusive or fail to meet expectations. Additionally, certain tests provide ongoing updates, allowing you to receive new findings as the company’s database expands.
A dog DNA test can provide valuable insights into your pet’s breed, ancestry, and potential health risks. To make the most of your purchase, choose a reputable brand with a strong track record for accuracy and customer support. As Dr. Chambers advises, “It’s best to pay a little extra for a more reliable test if you’re looking to screen for genetic disorders. Even the higher-quality tests can be purchased for at-home use.” By considering these factors, you can ensure you’re making an informed decision that benefits both you and your furry friend.
This article was written by Elizabeth Heath, a travel, lifestyle, and home improvement writer based in rural Umbria, Italy. Elizabeth’s work has been featured in The Washington Post, Travel + Leisure, Reader’s Digest, TripSavvy and more. Elizabeth regularly covers pet-related topics for Family Handyman and brings a keen eye for detail and research to her work.
To ensure accuracy and expert-backed advice, this guide includes insights from Dr. Amanda Chambers, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. Dr. Chambers is a small animal general practitioner with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Missouri. She provided expert commentary on the accuracy, health screening capabilities and potential limitations of dog DNA tests.
Additionally, Paul Rankin, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this article. Paul also writes for Reader’s Digest, Bob Vila and Taste of Home, and has been writing shopping guides since 2021.,
With a combination of hands-on expertise, thorough research and professional insights, this guide provides trustworthy recommendations to help you choose the best dog DNA test for your furry friend.
To identify the best dog DNA test kits, we evaluated top options based on accuracy, breed identification, genetic health screening, ease of use and additional features. We prioritized tests with large breed databases, a high number of genetic markers and reliable scientific validation to ensure precise results.
We also considered user experience, including sample collection methods, turnaround times, result clarity and customer support. Kits that offered comprehensive health insights, ancestry breakdowns and extra features like relative matching stood out among the competition. Our recommendations reflect a balance of accuracy, value and ease of use to help pet owners make informed decisions.
Wisdom Panel and Embark are widely regarded as the most accurate dog DNA test kits, with reported accuracy rates of 98-99%. They both use extensive breed databases and analyze thousands of genetic markers to provide detailed ancestry and health insights.
Both Wisdom Panel and Embark offer highly accurate results, but Embark tests for more genetic markers (over 200,000 compared to Wisdom Panel’s 100,000+), making it slightly more comprehensive. However, both are excellent choices, and the best option depends on your needs. Embark excels in health screening, while Wisdom Panel is often faster and more affordable.
Dog DNA test kits claim a degree of accuracy as high as 98%. But some experts contend that because the tests and testing process is not regulated or peer-reviewed, the results are not necessarily reliable. Results related to genetic mutations and potential diseases and disorders may be accurate and helpful but are best interpreted by a veterinarian.
For identifying a mixed dog’s breed makeup, DNA tests will either confirm what a dog owner already suspects or upend their ideas of their dog’s genetic makeup—which is why a lot of people question the accuracy of the results.
Our final take? The best dog DNA tests can provide fun breed information for the curious dog owner and can alert you to potential health issues with your pet. But they don’t replace veterinary care, and of course, the results won’t affect how much you love your pooch!
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