If you’ve ever been curious about what breeds contributed to your mixed breed, there is a way of knowing the precise origins of your new furry best friend. The Embark Breed and Health Dog DNA test features 200,000 plus genetic markers and offers 100 times more genetic information than its competitors.
Apart from checking over 170 genetic health conditions in your pup, you’ll be able to check 20 traits and communicate with customer service representatives to answer your questions. By joining with other Embarkers, you’ll be able to share insights about your pup with other Embarkers via Facebook and get health updates with new features for the best life of their dog.
Embark dog DNA testing kits allow for accurate genetic discovery by linking large databases of genomic data with phenotype information that has been voluntarily submitted through web-based surveys. In this blog, we’ll discuss why understanding your dog’s genetic history can help you avoid genetic health conditions and stay clear of medications that your pup may be sensitive to.
2 Embrace Genetic Testing Kit Options
There are two genetic testing kits available. One is the Breed ID kit, and the other is the Breed & Health kit. These genetic testing kits are explicitly crafted to give you a full breakdown of your dog’s breed mix, as well as the dog’s ancestry, so you get to see your dog’s family tree as far back as their grandparents.
Veterinarians developed Embark’s DNA test in partnership with Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine. It can identify breeds that contribute to as little as 5% of your dog’s overall DNA breed mix. Being the only dog DNA testing company to utilize a research-grade platform, Embark has been proven to show as much as twice the genetic data than other providers.
Today, thanks to veterinarians like those from Embark that developed an accurate and reputable best dog DNA kit 2021, we may soon have the option of a new therapy to correct genetic defects with gene prime editing, which soon should apply to heritable animal traits.
As of today, the genome editing method that directly rewrites new genetic information into a specified DNA site is just available for humans. As for the best dog DNA testing kits, Embark’s results can also be applied when breeding to see which mating pairs have the least genetic risk factors.
Dog Chromosomes
Dogs have 40 pairs of chromosomes, with pet parents having 23 pairs. The total number of DNA in the 40 canine chromosomes is called the dog genome and features around 2.5 billion letters of the DNA alphabet.
This delivers all the instructions needed to make all the molecules, cells, tissues, and organs that dogs need to grow from puppyhood to adulthood and survive.
As with their pet parents, dogs each receive 50% of their genetic material from their mother (dam) and 50% from their father (sire). These very accurate genetic tests can identify specific patterns of DNA shared among close family members.
In pet parents and dogs, these patterns may be suitable for applications such as paternity testing. Some patterns of DNA are shared among dogs of the same breed, but not in dogs of different breeds. A specific dog breed is similar to a large family with two dogs from the same breed being closely related.
7 Facts from Our Embark Canine DNA Test Kit Review
Thanks to our ever-expanding understanding of canine genetics, combined with tech advances, genetic testing for dogs can be done accurately and in a short amount of time. Today, you can use dog breed test kits as a way to identify your furry best friend’s breed makeup, and most importantly, determine what health conditions your dog may be at risk for. Some of these genetic diseases tested for will include the following:
. MDR1 drug sensitivity
. Glaucoma
. Degenerative myelopathy
. Dilated cardiomyopathy
What Do Embark’s Testing Kit’s Offer?
By testing your dog’s DNA, you’ll not only be able to plan for a healthy and longer lifespan because you’ll know what hereditary conditions to look out for, but you’ll also get a complete picture as to your pup’s training, diet, and health requirements. Here’s the take with Embark:
. Embark Dog DNA testing kits are the only 100% accurate genetic testing kits that enable pet parents to search for their dog’s siblings and relatives.
. Embark is unique in that it compares your dog’s DNA to 350 plus breeds, including wolves, street dogs, dingo, and coyotes.
. They utilize custom canine microarrays that were developed by Cornell’s top geneticist and professor.
. Embark features testing for your dog’s health for over 190 health conditions.
. Best of all, there’s a package discount for multi-pet households and breeders.
. You have the option of sharing your dog’s genetic testing results to help with genetic research.
. Embark’s may be slightly pricier than other dog DNA testing kits, but they give you many more results than other dog DNA testing kits. They’re also more accurate, and the most comprehensive for dog genetic testing on the market.
Embark Reviews
Embark allows you to find out more about your dog’s ancestry and what health issues he may be predisposed to. Depending on your pup’s breed, he may be prone to an array of health conditions during his lifetime.
By testing genetically, you’ll be able to work together with your veterinarian to help prevent or slow down the progression of one of these health conditions.
An Amazon review added, “Embark is superior to Mars in the amount and depth of analysis provided, especially the health analysis.” While another review added,” I eventually came across Embark on YouTube, and bought a DNA + Health Report, and was not disappointed. It finally told me what she was suffering with. She not only had hypothyroidism and liver damage, but also inherited 2 variants for Degenerative Melopathy. A disease of the nervous system that starts in the low spine, and slowly paralyzes the limbs. I knew then, it was time to end her suffering.”
What we liked most about Embark’s DNA test are the two testing options, which are both reasonably priced. The test also looks at whether your dog has coyote, wolf, or village dog ancestry. You’ll also get information about your dog’s natural energy levels, grooming requirements, dog training needs, and dietary requirements.
Here are the main features and pros and cons of this test.
Features
. 2 Testing kits available (Embark dog DNA test or Breed and Health kit.)
. Tests for over 190 genetic diseases
. The highest-ranked testing kit
. Captures over 200,000 genetic markers
. Explores your dog’s ancestry
. Features over 20 trait tests
. The ability to speak to a veterinary geneticist
. Features the most comprehensive and highest rated DNA dog testing kit.
. Allows you to understand your dog’s personality and unique quirks.
Pros
. Simple cheek swab needed.
. Research-grade DNA genotype platform
. Explores over 350 dog breeds
. Canine relative finder benefits
. Crafted by a canine genomics and biotechnology company
. Good discounts available
. Delivers more DNA data than other competitors
. Offers more than 160 tests for canine health issues ( other kits test for a few only)
. Their testing methods are the most scientifically accurate.
. Features app integration, ongoing updates, and a unique reporting style
. Crafted to deliver a most comprehensive all-in-one approach
. Uses scientific research for optimal test accuracy
. New packaging
. Relays top-notch ancestral family tree by distinguishing between maternal and paternal haplotypes. (a few other tests do)
. The advanced technology behind Embark’s DNA test uses proprietary 220,000 DNA marker microarray technology in its tests.
Cons
. It may be pricey, but worth it.
Dog DNA Test
Knowing your dog’s genetic heritage is beneficial not only for curiosity’s sake but to help explore any potential hereditary genetic health risks that your furry best friend may be prone to. It can also help you to avoid certain pet meds that your dog could be allergic to, as well as anesthesia risks that some breeds are susceptible to.
With over 4164 positive Amazon ratings, Embark ranks first when it comes to dog DNA test reviews. Embark captures over 200,000 genetic markers to give you a comprehensive test result. As the highest-rated dog DNA test available, Embark relays easily digestible information that you can easily share with your veterinarian in a downloadable report.
The Way Dog DNA Test Kits Work
Order the dog ancestry test online, activate it, swab your dog’s cheek for 30 seconds, place the swab in an Embark dog DNA testing tube, and mail the sample back to the Embark lab in a prepaid envelope. You’ll need to activate your account on Embark.com to get the results and your dog report. Embark is the best dog breed DNA test because tests are validated against samples from known carriers and at-risk dogs.
If your furry best friend is prone to developing certain health conditions, you can purchase a dog DNA test kit to help you find out more about your dog’s specific health conditions that have been linked to canine genetics.
Dog DNA Research
A 2019 study by the Morris Animal Foundation Golden Retriever Lifetime Study show that inbreeding depression reduces the litter size in Golden Retrievers. The research was done in partnership with Embark Veterinary Inc. It was one of the first studies that examined genetic measures of inbreeding in domestic dogs instead of using pedigree-based estimates.
The dog DNA study explains that “The team discovered that the degree to which a dog was inbred influenced the number of puppies it birthed. They found that, on average, a dam that is 10% more inbred than another will produce one less puppy per litter.
Dr. Chu said this work sets the stage for more extensive analyses to investigate genomic regions associated with fecundity and other measures of fitness, such as negative behavior, mortality, and longevity,” via Science Daily.
Canine Genetic Testing
All-in-all, this is one of the best dog breed tests because you can learn so much about your dog. When you figure out his genetics, you’ll be able to take excellent care of him and doing all you can to prevent any hereditary health issues by working with your veterinarian.
Multi-Pet Households & Breeders
If you’re a multi-pet household, it’s super easy to add additional dogs to the “my dogs” section at Embark. You’ll also get packaged discounts if you’re a breeder and want to test your entire litter of pups.
This is a proven, trusted DNA test for your dog, with no other dog DNA genetic testing kit a worthy rival. Before purchasing a dog DNA testing kit, read the Embark dog DNA test reviews to understand why this is the best dog DNA kit of 2021.
Compared with other dog DNA testing kits, the most talked about feature is the microarray feature that can retrieve more than 200,000 genetic markers for your dog. Although you know your dog down to the smallest detail, it’s important to consider genetic health factors so that your dog can live a long and healthy life.
The Embark canine genetic testing kit allows for 190 plus genetic mutation testing linked to diseases and includes genetic risk factors that may apply to your breed.
Ancestry for Dogs
Your furry best friend may be susceptible to health conditions that have not shown up yet. But how do you know which health conditions if you’re not sure as to your dog’s ancestry? Perhaps he’s a mixed breed? Today with over 400 domestic dog breeds around, all of whom have unique histories and genetic profiles, it’s essential to understand that most dog breeds don’t share genetic determinants.
Breed Prototypes for Canine DNA
You’ll see that breed prototypes have been around since ancient times, depending on the jobs that these breeds performed. A study of 161 dog breeds demonstrated that most dog breeds did not share large haplotypes (DNA signature sets of genetic determinants located on one chromosome) outside of their group of evolutionary descendants from one common ancestor.
The study noted that at most, they would share them with just one remote dog breed. The study data showed the existence of 23 clades of species, which represent breed types that existed before The American Kennel Club (AKC) and The United Kennel Club (UKC), as well as other breed clubs and registries.
Animal DNA Test
The health screening DNA test from Embark identifiers genetic health conditions from 16 areas. This would include the following:
. Immune
. Eyes
. Blood
. Heart
. Kidney
. Bladder
. Brain
. Spinal cord and more
Embark also shows you the level of inbreeding and allows for a complete genetic diversity profile so that you can get some answers and slow the progression of any possible health issues that your furry best friend may be prone to.
Embark Report Review
If you’re keen to see a sample of Embark’s Chief Executive Dog, Harley, posted on their website, this will give you an idea of how detailed yet easy-to-understand this genetic report is.
If you’re the pet parent of a purebred that’s more prone to recessive diseases, a DNA dog testing kit will help you see some of the conditions through genetic testing that is most associated with certain breeds. Embark also features 100% genetic decodes for designer crosses, purebreds, and mixed breeds.
Family Tree
There’s nothing more fascinating than getting information about your dog’s family tree as far back as his great grandparents. Embark does this accurately by using an algorithm to make this prediction, yet this may not be your furry best friend’s specific family tree but will show who shares your dog breed’s ancestry, which is pretty impressive.
Embark Health
The health section at Embark includes all problematic health variances that show up in your dog’s DNA. Because Embark is the best dog DNA testing test with the most accurate genetic results, you’ll want to be able to understand the report when you read it.
The Embark test result is accepted at the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and is accepted for all the conditions that the OFA has an established DNA registry.
Genetics and epigenetic markers will show the predisposition and susceptibility of a disease. The epigenome then gets studies, which entails the tissue and stage of life dependent, varying a lot between individuals and species.
Humans and animals have around 22,000 genes, with 2% making up the genome. The rest (98%) will encapsulate the most extensive genetic information about gene programming and gene expression.
Embark Traits
The traits section displays the genetic variants that affect how your dog looks physically. This section is broken down into a few categories, which are as follows:
. Basecoat color
. Coat color modifiers
. Coat traits (color, length, shedding)
. Body features
. Body size
. Performance
Linkage Test
Embark adds that “DNA sequences that are close together on a chromosome tend to be inherited together. Because of this, we can use genetic variation surrounding a specific variant (i.e. “linked” to it) to infer the presence or absence of a variant that is linked to a health condition or trait. Linkage tests are not as predictive of your dog’s true genotype as direct assays, that we use on most other genetic conditions we test for”, via Embark.
Embark Maternal and Paternal Haplotype
Haplotypes are genetic signatures in that a group of genes creates a signature that tells you more about your dog’s ancestry. The maternal haplotype is from mitochondrial DNA since all mitochondria are passed from the dam’s side.
On the other hand, the paternal haplotype is the sire’s Y chromosome. You’ll see that males can trace both the sire and the dam’s haplotypes because they have both the mitochondrial DNA as well as the Y chromosome.
Review of Embark DNA Dog Testing Kit
Embark features two dog DNA testing kits, including the Breed ID kit and the Breed & Health Kit. Both of these canine testing kits offer a genetic breakdown and show you the percentage of your dog’s breed makeup.
The Health Kit’s most accurate dog DNA test allows for additional results from 190 dog health conditions, with an inbreeding score, as well as genetic traits.
By using the Embark canine DNA test kit, you’ll get breed relevant genetic health information like the following:
. Disease screening for purebred dogs
. Results for genetic mutation tests
. Traits testing (Body size, coat color, coat characteristics, and more)
. DLA diversity testing
. Genetic Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) score
Dog Breed Test Kit Results
Embark’s test results are provided within a short window of time. It usually takes 2-3 weeks, but COVID-19 may take a little longer. The complete list of health conditions that Embark tests include the following:
. Blood
. Muscular
. Multisystem
. Skin & Connective tissues
. Brain & Spinal cord
. Metabolic
. Eyes
. Heart
. Skeletal
. Gastrointestinal
. Immune
. Kidney & bladder
. Hormones
. Clinical & other systems
. Neuromuscular
The most common disease categories with a high prevalence include skin and urinary tract disorders, which account for 12%, then there are digestive tract issues at 11%, ocular and musculoskeletal at 10%.
Inherited Diseases in Dogs
Statistics on dog cancers add that hereditary risk factors play a role in cancer in certain dog breeds like the Golden Retriever, Boxer, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. Today we know that there are genetic characteristics that contribute to higher cancer rates among certain dog breeds. This may stem from a combination of genes or by a single gene.
More research is needed in understanding which genetic factors are involved. According to the DNA Diagnostics Center, DNA testing kits can test for the following:
. Centronuclear Myopathy in Labrador Retrievers
CNM is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder characterized by weight loss, awkward gait, and exercise intolerance.
. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Chorodial Hypoplasia
In affected dogs, the choroid does not develop properly and is thinner than usual, resulting in vision loss and retinal detachment.
. Copper Toxicosis (Copper Storage Hepatopathy)
Copper Toxicosis (CT) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder. A dog’s system accumulates excess copper instead of excreting it naturally, resulting in severe liver damage.
. Cystinuria in Newfoundlands and Labradors
Cystinuria is a metabolic disorder that can cause stones in the urinary tract. This test is exclusively for Labrador Retrievers and Newfoundlands.
. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in Canine Breeds
DM is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord characterized by muscle weakness in the hind limbs. This disease can eventually lead to paraplegia.
. Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)
Dogs clinically affected by Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) often begin to exhibit leg weakness followed by a complete collapse after just 5 to 15 minutes of strenuous activity.
. Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK) in Labrador Retrievers
HNPK-affected dogs develop dry, rough crusts on the tip of the nose. In extreme cases, the dog’s nose cracks, causing severe discomfort. This test is exclusively for Labrador Retrievers.
. Multidrug Resistance 1 (MDR1)
MDR1-affected dogs are at risk of developing neurologic symptoms from several common drugs. Find out if your dog is affected.
. Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd)
PRA-prcd is inherited as an autosomal recessive disease. Degeneration of both rod and cone photoreceptor cells of the retina of PRA-prcd affected dogs usually occurs at 3 to 5 years of age or later.
. Uric Acid DNA Test (Hyperuricosuria)
Hyperuricosuria, or elevated uric acid level in the urine, is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder and is characterized by the formation of bladder stones and occasional kidney stones.
. von Willebrand’s Disease Type 1
vWD is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in canines. Type I vWD is characterized by abnormally-low production of blood-clotting protein.
Dog DNA testing kits should be crafted by veterinary experts allowing for precise results and offering high-quality genetic screens to help breeders and pet parents. The considerable take with dog DNA testing kits is that results widely vary, with the more expensive dog DNA testing kits like Embark’s offering results that everyone to understand.
Final Thoughts
Embark is one of the most comprehensive and accurate dog DNA testing kits around. With the easy links that you can share or print-report with your veterinarian, Embark shows you the predisposition and epigenetic markers that define your pup’s susceptibility to a particular disease.
If you’re just curious about your pup’s ancestry, then a simple DNA kit will work for you. On the other hand, if you want a more detailed playbook about your dog’s health and wellness, Embark will tell you more about your dog’s breed history than any other dog DNA test will do.
If you’ve recently adopted a pup, you’ll be able to see what his ancestral makeup is. By using genetic testing, you’ll be able to prevent or slow down a specific health condition and allow for your pup to live a longer and healthier life. It seems like a worthwhile investment that will enable you to work together with your veterinarian and allow optimal veterinary care targeted toward specified predisposed genetic diseases.
Questions & Answers
What Breeds Does Embark Test for?
Embark has a database of over 150 dog breeds, including coyote, wolf, and village dogs. This database covers 98% of dogs in the U.S. With Embark; you’ll get to see your pup’s exact breed composition and get breed information.
Who Owns Embark DNA?
Ryan Boyko and his brother Adam are both co-founders of Embark. They work together with other veterinarians and geneticists at Cornell University of Veterinary Science in Boston.
Does Embark Test for Wolf?
Yes, not only does Embark test for wolves but coyotes and village dogs too.
Does Embark Test for Age?
Embark estimates a dog’s genetic age and may try to help you with your pup’s calendar age as well.
What Does Embark Health Test for?
Embark tests for over 190 plus genetic risk alleles. They select the conditions of which the variants have been published and demonstrated to have a causal effect.
How Long Does It Take to Get Embark Results?
It may be as soon as two weeks, with some results taking as long as four weeks.
How Accurate Are Embark DNA Tests?
Embark canine DNA test kits embraces the most advanced genetic analyses compared to other animal DNA tests.
Resources