Many pet owners wonder about dog DNA test ratings and what to look for in a reputable company. The truth is that there are many factors to consider when choosing a DNA test for your dog. For example, you can’t trust the results if they are inaccurate or don’t include all the breed information. You can only hope that you’ll get a positive result, but there are many different factors to consider.
Some companies offer extra information with their DNA tests, but you need to be aware of the limitations of such information. Embark’s breed-specific genetic tests give more information than any other company, and their geneticists will even speak with you before the results are available. This approach is helpful because it helps prevent emotional reactions and ensures that you know exactly what your dog’s DNA test results mean. Lastly, many of these companies also offer networking options for dog owners. For example, Embark has a networking feature, similar to that of human DNA tests.
Not all companies publish their accuracy ratings, and most brands do not publish them. Embark, for example, offers up to 99 percent accuracy. Although accuracy is important, not all companies publish it, so you may have to rely on reputation to determine if a DNA test is accurate. Regardless, it is important to research the accuracy of the test before you buy one. And remember, the higher the accuracy, the better.
For mixed-breed dogs, the Wisdom Panel Premium kit is the best choice. With more than 350 breeds to choose from, it’s an excellent option. Like Embark, Wisdom Panel tests less than a third of the DNA markers found in saliva than Embark does. Fortunately, the company has been refining its accuracy claims over the past few years. In 2019, Wisdom Panel claimed a 93% accuracy rate, but stopped disclosing this figure. By 2022, it claimed a 98% accuracy rate.
Embark DNA kit has been one of the highest rated dog DNA tests available. It is affiliated with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and uses research-grade data to determine accuracy. Customers have reported satisfaction with Embark’s results, and the company offers excellent customer support. And the test results take just two weeks, which is more than satisfactory for many pet owners. But, if you’re looking for a faster way to determine if your dog is affected by genetic health conditions, Embark might be the best choice.
The best dog DNA test will show you the mix of breeds your dog has. It may also reveal some genetically linked health conditions. Aside from this, many of the top tests are fun to use. Some calculate ideal weight ranges and alert owners to predisposed conditions. The test itself should be conducted by a company with years of experience and expertise in dog DNA testing. It should not be used as a medical diagnostic tool, though, so it is important to choose a company with a proven track record and a large database.
Sawyer