This Is How Much the Best Dog DNA Tests Cost

DNA testing has taken the world by storm! At-home DNA testing can determine your family tree or the part of the world you came from. With how popular DNA testing has become, it makes since that there are now dog DNA testing options as well!

DNA testing for dogs works in a different way than human DNA testing. With canines, we are often searching for breed information rather than our pet’s relatives. There is a lot to learn about dog DNA tests, so let’s break down everything you need to know below!

What Is a Dog DNA Test?

Dog DNA tests were designed to help us better understand our dog’s genetics. They are used to determine everything from breed to specific disease traits, helping you get to know your little one on a deeper level.

These tests can be helpful for any canine friend. However, they are used most often with mixed breed dogs, rescue dogs, or dogs with unknown histories. Because dogs are just as genetically unique as humans, DNA testing is a wonderful way to solve the mystery of your dog’s past and future!

How Do Dog DNA Tests Work?

There are multiple dog DNA testing options on the market, but many of them follow the same basics. You typically start with purchasing a dog DNA kit and registering the kit to your name and address. The company then sends you a DNA testing kit by mail. Each kit includes instructions on how to proceed.

Most at-home DNA tests for dogs include a cotton swab for sample collection. They also come with a tube to secure your pet’s sample for transport. The instructions detail how to collect a saliva sample from the inside of your dog’s mouth. You place the prepared sample in the transport method of choice. Next, you simply mail it back to the company to be tested in the lab. (Your initial payment covers shipping).

Most labs deliver your dog’s results to your email address within 7-21 days of your sample’s arrival to the lab. These results display the information based on the DNA testing package you chose. However, they may offer an upgrade to other DNA testing options as well.

What Can a Dog DNA Test Tell You?

As we mentioned above, dog DNA tests work differently from human DNA tests. While you aren’t likely interested in your dog’s family tree, there are many unique genetic traits these tests can reveal. We break down what your dog’s DNA test can tell you below!

Breed

The most common reason people use dog DNA tests is to determine the breed of their beloved companion. A test can help you discover which breeds make up your treasured rescue dog. They can also confirm that your pup is truly the breed you think he is.

These tests will display any of the breeds that are present in your dog, broken down by percentage. Most companies have a database of 300 or more breeds to refer to. They screen your little one’s sample for each breed.

Health Dispositions

By determining the breeds present in your dog, you can become aware of certain health complications that your pup is predisposed to. This can include issues ranging from hip dysplasia to urinary conditions, many of which can be managed if diagnosed early. Once you are aware of the possibly of these issues developing, you can better spot them down the line.

Genetic Mutations

Some tests search for genetic mutations in your dog’s DNA. This can include mutations that make your dog sensitive to certain medications, those that increase the risk of bladder stones, and even genes that cause overeating.

It’s important to keep in mind that these tests cannot screen for health conditions that develop due to environmental factors. For example, these tests cannot predict canine diabetes as a result of chronic obesity.

Physical Traits

Some tests can break down physical traits that are unique to your pup. These include distinguishing traits like eye color, coat color, coat texture, body shape, and even ideal weight range.

Close & Distant Relatives

Have you ever wondered if your dog has any relatives in your area? Dog DNA tests can answer this question! If your dog’s relatives have ever submitted their DNA to the company’s database, then these tests can match your pup with any relatives in the region. If the other pet parent has uploaded a photo of the relative, you can see what your dog’s relative looks like. Some companies even allow you to connect with the other pet parents.

What To Look for When Buying a Dog DNA Test

We want you to find the best test kit for your dog, so let’s break down what you should look for when you are shopping for a dog DNA test.

Accuracy: If you are going to invest in a dog DNA test for your little one, then you will want it to be as accurate as possible. In order for a test to be accurate, the company needs a large DNA database to pull from. Be sure to look at how many breeds the company has in their system, as the more breeds they have, the more accurate your pet’s test results will be.

Delivery time: While some basic tests have a turnaround time of 7-14 days, other more advanced tests can take up to six weeks to complete. Be sure to determine the standard delivery and turnaround time for your test of choice so there is no confusion.

Unique offerings: Not all test kits are the same! While some offer a basic breakdown of your dog’s breed, others offer you a deep dive into their potential health risks. Many companies have multiple kits to choose from, so be sure to browse and find a test that offers exactly what you’re looking for.

How Much Does a Dog DNA Test Cost?

It’s time to discuss the average cost of these test kits. While the price of a test will vary based on what the test searches for, we break down some averages below:

Standard Breed DNA Test Kits: $75-$120

Breed & Health DNA Test Kits: $100-$160

There may even be options for additional testing once you get your dog’s results, so if you choose to further test your dog’s sample, this will be an additional cost. In most cases, it’s more cost effective to purchase a kit up front that tests for breed and health risks, as adding it on later can be more expensive.

Final Thoughts

Most dog DNA tests will cost anywhere from $75 to $160 based on which traits you choose to test for. Be sure to review the information we discussed above, and you can better understand what these tests have to offer!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock.com