Best Dog DNA Tests of 2024

DNA testing can help identifying risk of certain medical conditions, as well as offer some insight into ancestry. We shared the best companies to consider if you are interested in gaining more insight into your dog’s DNA.

Our Choice

DNA testing can help you identify your risk of certain medical conditions, as well as offer some insight into your ancestry. We shared the best companies to consider if you are interested in gaining more insight into your own DNA.

Best Dog DNA Tests of 2024

Best DNA Tests for Dogs

Our Choice

4.2
4.2/5
10% OFF Coupon Code: SAVE10 Copied!

Our Choice

4.9
4.9/5
10% OFF Coupon Code: ITOLOFF10 Copied!
Very Good!

Also Great

4.8
4.8/5
Up to 40 USD Cheaper Copied!
Very Good!

Also Great

4.9
4.9/5
Save up to $40 with code BESTDOG Copied!
Outstanding!
4.9
4.9/5
10% OFF Coupon Code: MEMDAY Copied!
Outstanding!
4.8
4.8/5
Very Good!
4.8/5

ProsperK9 specializes in genetic and epigenetic DNA testing for dogs, offering insights into a pet’s breed, age, health, and personality traits through simple saliva swabs.

our rating:

4.8

Popular Choice

4.9/5

EasyDNA specializes in providing accurate DNA testing services globally, offering a variety of tests including paternity, health screening, and ancestry analysis.

our rating:

4.8

4.7/5

Wisdom Panel offers tests that can identify over 350 breeds, traits, and possible health conditions by examining genetic markers. 

our rating:

4.7

4.7/5
Embark Veterinary is a company that provides DNA testing services for dogs, designed to identify over 350 breeds and 200 genetic health risks, as well as physical traits.
our rating:

4.7

Picking The Best DNA Test in 2024

Most Advanced

4.9/5

ProsperK9 specializes in genetic and epigenetic DNA testing for dogs, offering insights into a pet’s breed, age, health, and personality traits through simple saliva swabs.

our rating:

4.9

4.7/5

Basepaws is a petcare genetics company that provides innovative DNA testing services, primarily for cats, and more recently for dogs.

our rating:

4.7

4.8/5
Vitagene is a unique DNA testing service that digs much deeper than just your ancestry and family tree, providing customized plans to help you improve your health.
our rating:

4.8

4.7/5

Has been 17 years on the market, has more than 99 million users throughout the world.

our rating:

4.7

What to focus on when choosing a DNA testing kit

The power of a DNA testing kit always boils down to the size and accuracy of the manufacturer’s database.

After all, let’s say you absolutely want to know how often Irish people have red hair. Would you trust a sample of 5 Irishmen more—or a massive analysis of 5 million Irish folks? The same principle works for DNA testing. It’s far more accurate to analyze a certain gene in a pool of millions instead of a few hundreds. That’s why all DNA testing brands are constantly expanding their pool of data—and that’s why the veterans in the niche often give superior results.

Another important factor is the types of analysis the testing kit provides. For example, some kits can give you insights into your ancestry—but nothing on your risk of developing certain health conditions. Check the features of every DNA testing kit to make sure you’ll get exactly what you want.

Last but not least, many DNA testing kits come with added features that don’t necessarily affect your experience with using the product, but are the icing on the cake that makes it stand out from the crowd. This could be a specific test, technology, or maybe the company’s involvement in leading research.

Now, let’s help you choose the best DNA testing kit using the most popular products right now as an example.

Think of your genes as if they were an alphabet. You have a limited amount of letters to use—but they can be used in a whole lot of ways to make unique words and sentences. In different tissues, different genes are activated (expressed), starting the production of specific compounds the body needs.

Basically, DNA testing kits can decipher your ”genetic alphabet” to find out how much of its letters are English or Arabic (what’s your genetic ethnicity). Or if you have an increased risk of writing a particular word the wrong way (developing a specific disease). Or if you’ve inherited your mom’s cursive A instead of your father’s version of the same letter (eye color, hair type).

In a nutshell, DNA testing kits use your saliva and/or a swab of the inner lining of your cheek to gather your DNA. This sample is sent to a special lab where your DNA is deciphered to the last gene and analyzed for similarities throughout the lab’s database.

And that’s why the lab’s database is probably THE most important factor to consider when choosing a DNA testing kit. 

Picking the best dog DNA testing kit in 2024

About 20 years ago, there were just 2 or 3 direct-to-customer DNA testing companies worldwide. Now there are dozens of them! With each brand offering a fabulous bundle of features, how do you pick the right one?

In 2024 our favourite options for dog dna test go like this:
ProsperK9
– EasyDNA
Embark
– Wisdom Panel

All of them have their own pros and cons, so keep reading to learn the important details.

ProsperK9 is a company dedicated to enhancing pet care through genetic and epigenetic testing. They offer DNA testing kits to help dog owners learn about their pet’s breed, age, health, and personality traits. By analyzing DNA from a simple saliva swab, 

ProsperK9 provides insights into a dog’s biological age and key behavioral traits, empowering owners to better understand and care for their pets. The company aims to make the science of genetics accessible to all dog owners, focusing on improving pet wellness through detailed, science-based insights.

  • Type of Test: Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) which provides a comprehensive genetic analysis of your dog’s entire genome.
  • Level of Detail: Offers 10,000 times more data than standard DNA tests, which enables highly accurate detection of breed composition and health concerns.
  • Number of Breeds Tested: Compares your dog’s DNA against over 300 reference breeds to accurately determine their breed mix.
  • Genetic Health Analysis:
    • Identifies potential genetic markers for conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and cancer.
    • Evaluates the coefficient of inbreeding, which helps assess the genetic diversity of your dog and potential health impacts.
  • Advantages Over Other DNA Tests:
    • Provides a complete map of the dog’s DNA rather than just snapshots, allowing for a deeper understanding of genetic health and ancestry.
    • Capable of detecting rare or newly discovered genetic traits that older tests might miss.
    • Offers the ability to reanalyze the same DNA data as new genetic discoveries are made, without needing a new test.
  • Sample Collection: Utilizes an easy-to-use at-home swab kit to collect saliva samples from your dog. Instructions and support are provided, often with visual aids like a video.
  • Results Reporting: Results are delivered within 4-6 weeks and include detailed reports that can be continually updated as new genetic data becomes available.
  • Data Access: Customers can request the complete genome sequence data for their dog by contacting Prosper K9 directly, allowing for further personal or professional analysis.
  • Basepaws is a petcare genetics company that provides innovative DNA testing services, primarily for cats, and more recently for dogs. Their tests help pet owners understand their pets’ breed compositions, genetic health risks, and traits through easy-to-use at-home testing kits. Basepaws focuses on early detection of health issues through genetic and microbiome data, enabling proactive care and potentially extending the health and wellness of pets.

  • Number of Breeds Tested: The test uncovers your dog’s breed mix from an extensive database of over 300 breeds, helping you understand their unique breed composition.
  • Number of Genetic Markers Tested: Detects genetic markers linked to more than 280 health risks, offering extensive health insights to manage your dog’s well-being proactively.
  • Testing Method: Utilizes a simple at-home cheek swab collection, which is designed to be easy, safe, and quick.
  • Results Delivery: You can expect to receive your dog’s DNA test results within 4-6 weeks after the lab receives the sample.
  • Health Insights:
    • Empowered Decisions: Access to groundbreaking science and data allows you to make informed decisions about your dog’s health, wellness, and longevity.
    • Genetic Health Risks: Helps detect and manage potential genetic health risks to improve your dog’s quality of life.
  • Breed Insights: Provides detailed insights into your dog’s breed identity and breed similarity score, enhancing your understanding of their genetic background.
  • Unique Traits: Discover over 30 physical and behavioral traits related to your dog, such as coat color, size, and other unique characteristics, revealing what makes them truly unique.
  • User Experience: The test kit includes free two-way shipping within the U.S. and promises an easy-to-use experience with fast shipping of the test kits (1-2 business days).
  • ProsperK9 is a company dedicated to enhancing pet care through genetic and epigenetic testing. They offer DNA testing kits to help dog owners learn about their pet’s breed, age, health, and personality traits. By analyzing DNA from a simple saliva swab, ProsperK9 provides insights into a dog’s biological age and key behavioral traits, empowering owners to better understand and care for their pets. The company aims to make the science of genetics accessible to all dog owners, focusing on improving pet wellness through detailed, science-based insights.

    • Type of Test: Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) which provides a comprehensive genetic analysis of your dog’s entire genome.
    • Level of Detail: Offers 10,000 times more data than standard DNA tests, which enables highly accurate detection of breed composition and health concerns.
    • Number of Breeds Tested: Compares your dog’s DNA against over 300 reference breeds to accurately determine their breed mix.
    • Genetic Health Analysis:
      • Identifies potential genetic markers for conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and cancer.
      • Evaluates the coefficient of inbreeding, which helps assess the genetic diversity of your dog and potential health impacts.
    • Advantages Over Other DNA Tests:
      • Provides a complete map of the dog’s DNA rather than just snapshots, allowing for a deeper understanding of genetic health and ancestry.
      • Capable of detecting rare or newly discovered genetic traits that older tests might miss.
      • Offers the ability to reanalyze the same DNA data as new genetic discoveries are made, without needing a new test.
    • Sample Collection: Utilizes an easy-to-use at-home swab kit to collect saliva samples from your dog. Instructions and support are provided, often with visual aids like a video.
    • Results Reporting: Results are delivered within 4-6 weeks and include detailed reports that can be continually updated as new genetic data becomes available.
    • Data Access: Customers can request the complete genome sequence data for their dog by contacting Prosper K9 directly, allowing for further personal or professional analysis.

    Wisdom Panel Premium

    Wisdom Panel helps dog owners understand their pet’s genetic background, manage health risks, and learn about unique traits.
  • Type of Test:
    • Breed Identification Test: Focuses on identifying the breed composition of your dog.
    • Breed + Health Test: Combines breed identification with a comprehensive health screening.
  • Number of Breeds Tested: Wisdom Panel tests typically cover up to 350 dog breeds, making it one of the most extensive breed databases available.
  • Health Screening (Breed + Health Test only):
    • Screens for 150 to 200 genetic health conditions, depending on the specific kit.
    • Provides insights into drug sensitivities and other genetic traits that could impact your dog’s health.
  • Traits Analysis (Breed + Health Test only):
    • Analyzes over 30 traits, including information on coat color, coat type, and more, which helps in understanding and caring for your dog’s physical and aesthetic characteristics.
  • Genetic Ancestry:
    • Delivers detailed breed breakdown and ancestry information.
    • Allows pet owners to understand the genetic lineage of their dog, potentially tracing back to the great-grandparents.
  • Additional Features:
    • Some kits include a relative finder to connect with other dogs that share DNA with your pet.
    • Customizable reports that can be shared with your veterinarian to help manage your dog’s health more effectively.
  • Pricing:
    • Breed Identification Test and Breed + Health Test pricing may vary, often seen around $84.99 to $159.99, sometimes with discounts or promotional offers.
  • User Experience:
    • Tests usually involve an easy-to-use cheek swab.
    • Results are typically delivered within 2-3 weeks after the sample is received by the lab.
  • Specialized Tests Available:
    • Wisdom Panel also offers specific tests targeted at breeders, which might include additional genetic markers and breeding-specific information.
  • Reliability and Accreditation:
    • Developed with a focus on high accuracy and reliability in breed determination and health screening, often validated through partnerships with veterinary schools or genetic research centers.
  • Embark Veterinary is a company that provides DNA testing services for dogs, designed to identify over 350 breeds and 200 genetic health risks, as well as physical traits. Founded in 2015, Embark aims to enhance the health and lifespan of dogs by leveraging genetic insights to inform personalized care plans for pets. The company’s tests analyze a comprehensive range of genetic markers, making it a leader in canine genetic testing

  • Type of Test
    • Breed ID Test: Focuses on identifying the breed composition of your dog.
    • Breed + Health Test: Includes breed identification plus a health screening.
  • Number of Breeds Tested: Tests for over 350 breeds, types, and varieties, which is more than any other DNA test on the market.
  • Health Screening (Breed + Health Test only):
    • Screens for over 250 genetic health risks.
    • Can identify drug sensitivities that may cause adverse reactions to common medications, such as anesthetics, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, or even coma.
    • Screens for other potential health issues including degenerative diseases, bleeding tendencies, and more.
  • Traits Analysis (Breed + Health Test only):
    • Tests for over 35 traits, including size, coat characteristics, and grooming needs, helping you understand and manage your dog’s physical requirements.
  • Genetic Ancestry:
    • Provides a breed breakdown and confirmation.
    • Reveals your dog’s ancestry and geographical origins, potentially going back to the great-grandparents.
    • Includes the world’s first canine relative finder, enabling you to connect with other dogs that share DNA with yours (94% of tested dogs have at least one relative as genetically close as first cousins in the database).
  • Additional Features:
    • Customization options for the test kit (Mixed breed, Purebred).
    • Genetic diversity measurement and predicted adult weight (included in the health tests).
    • Ability to send results directly to your veterinarian for better integrated care.
  • Pricing:
    • Breed ID Test: Regular price $129, discounted to $99.
    • Breed + Health Test: Regular price $199, discounted to $139 with code DNASALE.
    • Breed + Health Test 2-pack: Regular price $398, discounted to $258.
  • Specialized Tests Available:
    • Embark offers specific tests for veterinarians and breeders as well.
  • Partnerships and Accreditation:
    • Research partners with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
    • Developed by veterinarians, ensuring a high standard of reliability and accuracy (99% breed ancestry accuracy).
  • Shipping and Handling:
    • Free US shipping included.
    • Offers payment plans through installments or monthly payments as low as $17.96.
  • Easy DNA

    Easy DNA USA has been 18 years on the market, is a leading provider of DNA testing and genetic testing.
  • Number of Breeds Tested: Can test for up to 350 different dog breeds.
  • Waiting Time for Results: The results typically take 2 to 3 weeks to be processed and delivered after the sample has been received by the lab.
  • Number of Genetic Markers Tested: Tests can analyze several hundred to over a thousand genetic markers, depending on the thoroughness of the specific test.
  • Testing Method: Usually involves collecting DNA samples from your dog using a cheek swab, then sending this sample to a lab where it is analyzed using advanced genetic testing techniques.
  • The Bottom Line

    DNA testing kits can give you valuable information about your ethnicity, health risks, and even tips on what to eat and how to exercise better. The best part is that you don’t have to visit a lab, run blood tests, or waste a fortune to get in-depth results. Modern DNA testing kits allow you to do everything at the comfort of your own home, using a saliva or cheek swab test!

    Here’s a quick rundown to help you choose the best DNA testing kit in 2023:

    – If this is your first DNA testing kit, try MyHeritageDNA
    – If your primary goal is ancestry tracing worldwide, go for a DNA testing kit by MyHeritageDNA
    – For ancestry tracing within the UK, your absolute best pick is a test from LivingDNA
    – To trace your male or female ancestors specifically, VITAGENE is the best option
    – For advanced insights and health risk estimates, try a Nebula Genomics testing kit