Embark Vet – Breed & Health Condition Identification DNA Tests for Dogs
The most scientifically advanced dog DNA test.
What if we could end preventable diseases in dogs?
Who says dogs can’t talk? Their DNA has a lot to say. From health, to happiness, to what makes them tick. Learn his inner secrets with the highest-rated dog DNA test.
What is Embark?
Embark Veterinary, Inc. was launched in 2015. Their mission is to end preventable disease in dogs. Every Embark dog’s genetic data contributes to helping achieve this goal. “There’s no cost too great for more time with a best friend.”
Embark is a dog DNA Test that enables pet owners to learn about their dog’s breed, ancestry, health, nutrition, and what diseases a dog may be at risk for in the future – with a simple cheek swab!
How Does Embark Work? What is the testing process?
With a simple cheek swap, we can analyze more genetic information than any other test available, providing the most accurate results on the market. A cheek swab and instructions will be mailed to you. By swabbing your dog’s cheek, you can easily take a sample in just under a minute at home, no blood tests or veterinary appointment required. Then all you have to do is mail in the sample in a provided pre-paid return envelope and your results will be available in a few weeks.
The sampling kit works under a wide variety of conditions, so you don’t have to worry about making a mistake.
How Long Does it Take?
Typical turnaround time from when Embark gets your test kit returned to them is 2-4 weeks.
The Science: The most scientifically advanced dog DNA test
Highest rated dog DNA test on the market
Embark was started by two brothers, Adam and Ryan Boyko, who have a passion for scientific research and a lifelong love of dogs.
Embark is a research partner of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine with a permanent Scientific Advisory Board. Embark is committed to working with the best veterinarians and dog researchers in the world.
The swab is analyzed at Embark’s state-of-the-art, CLIA-certified, dog-approved lab facility. At the lab they extract the DNA and run it on the custom-built genetics “chip”, which is a proprietary DNA microarray with over 230,000 markers. This produces an incredibly detailed view of dog’s genome which is run through their bioinformatics pipeline. This was created and is run by the top dog DNA scientists in the world. Your dog’s results go through several steps of verification and quality control. Whenever Embark sees a questionable result, it is hand-checked by their scientific experts, so you know you can trust their findings.
Embark uses several proprietary algorithms to build the story of your dog and his DNA one chromosomal segment at a time. They test about 256 quadrillion (that’s 500 million times 500 million) different possible genetic ancestry combinations for your dog using the “latest and greatest” science.
The DNA processing steps typically take about 2-4 weeks and while your dog’s sample is in the lab, email updates are sent along the way. You can track your order online and receive updates and alerts as thesample is processed.
Read Embark’s many discoveries already and ongoing research.
Which Dog Breeds do Embark Identify?
Embark tests for over 350 dog breeds – and even wolf, coyote, dingo, and village dog ancestry. Together, these breeds cover over 98% of dogs in America. This is the only test that can test for village dogs, and can distinguish where village dogs come from. Full list of breeds that Embark test for.
Which Health Conditions and Disorders does Embark Test for?
Embark tests for over 210 genetic health risks, and that number continues to increase over time as more research is done. These tests are designed for genetic testing in dogs to improve the health of dogs.
For more information see the current complete list of conditions included with the test. If you’d like to learn more generally about Embark’s health tests see the Health page. Remember our goal is to end preventable diseases, you can help and your pet deserves the best!
The Benefit’s of Embark:
The costs of veterinary expenses that the pet owner spends on their pets due to health issues can be avoided as Embark DNA test results helps you prepare in advance for numerous possible genetic health conditions. Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health care rather than reactive in allowing you to take these preventative steps to avoid costly treatments later on, and reducing the likelihood you’ll face expensive bills for avoidable clinical or genetic tests afterwards if symptoms of these conditions develop in your dog. Embark’s testing has increased the awareness of inherited diseases, creating an opportunity for greater research of more complex diseases.
Your genetic support provides scientists across the world with the data necessary to make the next breakthroughs for better canine health and wellness. Embark is also looking to expand their shelter partnerships to give back to animals in need.
For those just wanting a simpler approach, Embark is a tool that helps pet owners discover their dog’s ancestry if you’re curious about your dog’s breed makeup. Extending your dog’s life is just a bonus. Embark analyses your dog’s traits and predicts coat colour, shedding, body size, and specific traits of your dog. This is useful if you’ve purchased a dog from a rescue organization or mixed breed dog.
Embark does not provide medical diagnoses and pet owners should talk to their veterinarian if they’re concerned about a medical condition.
How is Embark different from other dog DNA tests?
- Embark was created by the world leaders in dog genetics
- The Embark Breed + Health test is the most comprehensive on the market, providing results for over 210 genetic health risks
- This is the most accurate breed identification scientifically possible with over 350 breeds, types, and varieties tested
- The platform is built and run by the world’s top dog geneticists. This means you and your dog get the absolute best information while contributing to research for the betterment of dogs and humans into the future.
- Uses over twice as much genetic information to accurately determine your dog’s breeds
- The world’s only canine relative finder
- Developed by Dr. Adam Boyko, leading dog geneticist and professor at Cornell University
- Contribute to scientific discovery to help end preventable disease in dogs
- Updates to results whenever possible
- Highest rated test on the market
- Highly specialized veterinarians and canine geneticists on-staff to answer questions
How will my Results be Given to Me?
Your dog’s results will be delivered online in easily understandable, interactive ways. The results guide you to understanding your dog and caring for them better. In addition, Embark provides a Print Report, which is a PDF that can be downloaded or printed to share with others. You can also facilitate conversations with your veterinarian by printing your dog’s Embark Veterinary Report. It is encouraged to discuss your dog’s results with your vet and should not take any action based on the tests until you have discussed the results with your vet.
Synergistically Yours, Danielle & Sheepdog Riggs
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