Last Updated on October 27, 2025 by Dogs Vets
How Much Does a Dog Dna Test Cost At a Vet?
You can expect the average cost of a DNA test to be between $100 and $300. This charge applies if you choose to have a blood-based DNA test performed by a veterinarian.
However, you can also choose to purchase a DNA test kit that will cost you between $30 and $70 along with additional shipping costs.
This procedure is quite simple and can be done by the pet owner or a veterinarian. Some veterinarians prefer to submit a blood sample where they can be sure that large amounts of DNA are present.
While the needle blood collection may upset your pet for a moment, overall the procedure will not harm your pet.
Dog DNA Testing
Dog DNA tests have gained popularity in recent years as they provide insights into a dog’s breed, ancestry, and potential health concerns.
Here are ten things you should know about dog DNA tests, including the cost of having one done at a veterinarian’s office.
- Cost of a dog DNA test at a vet: The cost of a dog DNA test at a veterinarian’s office can range from $150 to $300 or more, depending on the complexity of the test and any additional services provided by the vet.
- Test accuracy: Most dog DNA tests have an accuracy rate of 95% or higher, providing reliable results regarding your dog’s breed, ancestry, and potential health concerns.
- Breed identification: A dog DNA test can help identify the breeds in your dog’s lineage, giving you a better understanding of their physical traits, temperament, and potential health issues.
- Health screening: Some dog DNA tests also screen for genetic markers associated with certain health conditions, helping you stay proactive about your dog’s health.
- At-home DNA test kits: In addition to having a DNA test done at a veterinarian’s office, you can also purchase at-home dog DNA test kits. These kits typically cost between $70 and $200 and require a simple cheek swab to collect a DNA sample.
- Turnaround time: The turnaround time for dog DNA test results varies depending on the test and laboratory. Generally, you can expect to receive results within 2 to 4 weeks.
- Ancestry tracking: Some dog DNA tests can trace your dog’s ancestry back several generations, providing you with a detailed family tree.
- Exercise and nutrition recommendations: Based on your dog’s breed and genetic makeup, some DNA tests offer personalized recommendations for exercise and nutrition to help optimize their health and well-being.
- Genetic age: Some dog DNA tests can estimate your dog’s genetic age, which may differ from their chronological age. This information can be helpful in understanding your dog’s overall health and potential longevity.
- Consult with your veterinarian: Before deciding on a dog DNA test, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can help guide you in choosing the best test for your dog and assist in interpreting the results to ensure you’re making the most informed decisions about your dog’s care.
Dog DNA Testing Overview
Home DNA testing is becoming increasingly popular and it’s easy to see why. Who hasn’t wanted to learn more about their family’s ancestral past or uncover hidden aspects of their personal heritage?
Services like 23 and me and Ancestry.org touch something Intimate, If you think otherwise, As it turns out, there are plenty of services out there that provide additional features of DNA testing for dogs.
If you’re the proud owner of a mixed-breed puppy, you probably spent some time wondering what exactly went into your dog’s genetic makeup. DNA testing for dogs is your chance to find out – as well as learn critical health details, devise a better nutrition plan, and track down all kinds of pertinent information.
How much does dog DNA testing cost?
When ordering an analysis for your pet or litter, of course, you want to get the best possible price, but the cost is not the only issue. You should also ask the following:
- Are the test results accurate?
- Are the results accurate?
- Are the results published quickly?
- Do you provide customer service?
- Would your clients recommend you to their friends and family?
Detailed Testing Options at DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC) Pets & Vets
When you’re looking into genetic testing for dogs—whether you’re a pet owner, a breeder, or a veterinarian—getting clear information about what each test covers and how much it costs is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the main tests offered by DDC Pets & Vets, along with their pricing and how they’re best used.
1. Hereditary Disease Screening
This test is designed to detect genetic predisposition to diseases that are more common in certain breeds—examples include degenerative myelopathy, exercise-induced collapse, and von Willebrand’s Disease Type 1. According to DDC’s site, this test is listed at USD $58 each, and they offer a 20% discount when two or more tests are ordered together. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)+1
Using this test makes sense when you’re planning breedings, want to understand health risks for a puppy or adult dog, or want vet-informed insights into long-term care.
2. Hereditary Trait Testing
These are tests that look at inherited physical or visible traits—things like coat color, coat curl or texture, long vs. short coat genes, and so on. It follows the same pricing model: $58 each with a 20% discount for two or more tests. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)
This test is helpful if you are breeding for certain physical attributes or simply curious about what traits your dog may pass on.
3. Lineage & Parentage Verification
This service verifies parent-offspring relationships, confirms lineage and supports registration when parentage must be documented. DDC’s listed price is USD $38 per test, again with the 20% discount for two or more. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)
This is most useful in formal breeding scenarios, registries or when loss/theft of pedigree documentation is a concern.
4. Parent/DNA Profiling
Focused on verifying that the offspring are correctly registered to the dam (and potentially sire). The price here is USD $58 each, with the same discount structure for ordering multiple tests. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)
It’s a tighter application of genetic profiling—best used when parentage is in question or where formal certification is required.
5. Breed DNA Testing
This is a broader test that looks at ancestry and breed mix for dogs of unknown background. The DDC site reports USD $89 per dog for this service. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)+1
If you’ve ever wondered “What breed is that dog?” or you adopted a pet without a known lineage, this test can provide a multi-generation view of breed makeup.
Additional Considerations
DDC emphasizes that they are an accredited laboratory with high reliability, fast turnaround times and offer professional consultations. DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)+1
Also, broader market data shows that typical dog DNA tests in 2025 range from roughly USD $40 to over USD $200 depending on depth, brand and whether health screens are included. MetLife Pet Insurance+2Vetster Online Vets+2
So the pricing above from DDC is very competitive compared to the market.
More on Dogs DNA Testing…
Despite the growing popularity of DNA testing for dogs, there are relatively few companies offering these services.
The most well-known is Embark and Wisdom Panel, which promises to not only reveal your dog’s breed mix but also their family tree back to their grandparents. Some other well-known companies include DNA My Dog and Orivet.
What are the differences between these companies? With a DNA test for dogs, two things matter most: the number of breeds in their database and the accuracy of their results.
Here’s a breakdown of the top four choices and what they are best known for.
#1: Embark Vet DNA testing
Start testing for 350 breeds including dingoes, village dogs, and wolves. Who doesn’t want to know if their dog is a part wolf?
Researcher Ryan Boyko founded Embark Dog after conducting dog DNA research around the world
The test is produced in collaboration with Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and has been highly rated online, including by The New York Times, which recently tested major dog DNA test brands.
Quality comes with a price tag: the two Embark kits (one is the health version, which we’ll discuss a bit later) retail at $129 and $199 respectively.
#2: Wisdom Panel
The Wisdom Panel, from Mars Petcare, also tests for more than 350 breeds.
NPR spoke with Angela Hughes of Mars Petcare, who conducts the Wisdom Panel testing, and Hughes said they can’t disclose their exact methods for proprietary reasons. She added, however, that internal testing has shown that their breed results are 93 percent accurate in mixed breeds.
Like Embark, Wisdom Panel offers two different products, a “premium” version that includes health testing. Their two packages will cost you either $99.99 or $159.99, so they’re a bit more affordable than Embark.
#3 DNAmyDog
This option is less expensive than Embark and Wisdom Panel and has a smaller breed database. This means that if your dog is of a rare origin or an unregistered breed, DnaMyDog is not the best choice.
However, its database represents the majority of common dog breeds in the United States. You have your German Shepherds, your Bulldogs, your Yorkies, and even your Affenpinschers. If you are concerned about budget, take a look at DNAmyDog.
#4. Orivet DNA Testing
Orivet primarily markets to breeders and veterinarians. For scientists or pet parents looking for highly specific health tests, Orivet offers a wide variety of specific tests for genetic conditions. They have a commercially available “mixed breed kit” available for $84 at Chewy.
How do dog DNA tests work?
The DNA testing process is simple for dog owners. You can order a dog DNA testing kit from Amazon, Chewy, and other online retailers. Subsequently, your breed identification test comprises a cheek swab.
The DNA testing itself was simple for us, although we had to bribe Scout with bacon before we molted it.
Pro tip: don’t let them eat the treat, as it will dilute their saliva and lose their results. Use it to get their attention and cooperation and then reward them when you’ve gathered enough saliva.
After you send it in the mail, your dog’s sample is compared to an extensive database of breeds of other DNA samples.
Within a few weeks, you receive your dog’s results via email. This will either be in a PDF attachment or online. Embark and Wisdom Panel offer customized web portals to view your dog’s mystery makeup. This means analysis of breed heritage by percentage.
Are these tests regulated? The short answer is no. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor the quality or promises of dog DNA tests, unlike regulating human DNA tests like Ancestry and 23andMe.
The companies themselves promise high levels of internal quality control. Wisdom Panel notes that its laboratory is USDA accredited.
Dog DNA Testing and Your Dog’s Lifestyle
Getting a DNA test for your dog isn’t just about satisfying curiosity—it can be a useful tool for tailoring their care. Knowing the breed mix gives you insight into their natural tendencies, exercise needs, and how best to support them. For example, herding-type mixes may thrive with more movement and mental stimulation, while brachycephalic breeds (those with short noses, like French and Boston terriers) can be prone to overheating and benefit from shorter walks or shaded play. According to veterinary sources, breed composition can help owners develop more accurate nutrition, wellness and prevention plans. Ask A Vet+1
When you find out that your dog has a hound gene, a working-breed gene, or something unexpected like a sighthound, you can adjust daily routines: more chasing games, puzzle toys, or endurance walks, or conversely, calmer indoor enrichment if the dog is more of a lap-type. Understanding what drives your dog helps deepen your bond and makes care more proactive.
Dog DNA Testing and Your Dog’s Health
On the health side, DNA testing has grown more robust. Advanced kits in 2025 can screen for hundreds of genetic markers: risk of eye disease, drug sensitivities, immune disorders, and more. For example, one lab partnering with university researchers finds more than 270 genetic health risks and covers over 350 breeds. Cornell Chronicle+1 Also, genetics experts point out that while these tests offer helpful information, they do not replace a vet exam or guarantee outcomes. Cornell Vet School+1
It’s important to understand what results mean. A “carrier” status doesn’t always mean the dog will develop the condition. It means the dog carries a variant associated with risk. Environmental factors and genes beyond the test may influence whether the condition appears. For example, a gene linked to a spinal disease might raise risk, but it doesn’t guarantee the dog will be affected. Cornell Vet School+1
Also, there are other considerations: some independent reviews found that a few direct-to-consumer dog DNA test companies had discrepancies—for example, results that didn’t align with known breed registry status. medschool.cuanschutz.edu So, while DNA testing has improved, users should remain cautious and combine it with good veterinary-led care.
Putting It All Together
When you get your dog’s DNA results, use them as one tool among many. Use the breed history to refine exercise, enrichment and nutrition. Use the health-risk information to discuss with your vet: plan screenings, avoid problematic drugs, adjust lifestyle if necessary. But continue regular checkups, maintain healthy weight, and ensure good quality of life—that’s still the foundation.
And on the fun side: seeing unexpected breeds in the mix can be a joyful revelation—another way the test helps you understand your dog and strengthen your relationship.
The Tail End
Keep in mind that ordering a DNA test through your vet will likely have added cost to the price, so it makes sense to test directly through the lab whenever possible.
Take Note: Be wary of prices from laboratories that appear “too low“.
Sometimes this unrealistically discounted price comes at the expense of the other important parts of the testing listed at the top of this article. Remember, the cost is important, but it is not the only consideration when choosing a provider you can trust.
You can order your DNA test now with DNA Diagnostics Center
Final Conclusion
In conclusion, dog DNA tests provide valuable insights into your dog’s breed, ancestry, and potential health concerns.
While the cost of having a test done at a veterinarian’s office may be higher than home DNA test kits, the additional support and expertise provided by your vet can be beneficial in understanding and managing your dog’s health.
The best overall DNA test for dogs is the Embark Breed & Health Kit, which provides you with a breed analysis and information about ancestors going back to great-grandparents.
It also tests for different genetic diseases! If you’re looking for something that costs a little less, the DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test Kit (view at Chewy) is a solid option that still provides reliable and fast results.
FAQ’S 10 most frequently asked questions (and clear answers) about dog DNA testing in 2025 — based on current veterinary sources, testing companies, and user reviews:
1. How accurate are dog DNA tests today?
Modern tests like Embark and Wisdom Panel report accuracy rates above 95–99% for breed identification, thanks to larger databases and improved genetic markers.
However, accuracy varies for health-related predictions, which depend on ongoing research. Always confirm medical findings with your vet.
2. What’s the difference between breed tests and health tests?
Breed tests identify ancestry and breed composition, often tracing back several generations.
Health tests screen for inherited diseases, carrier status, and drug sensitivities.
Some kits combine both (e.g., Embark Breed + Health, Wisdom Panel Premium).
3. Can a DNA test tell me if my dog will get sick?
Not exactly. DNA tests can show genetic risk or carrier status, but they don’t predict whether your dog will actually develop a disease.
Environmental factors, diet, and lifestyle all play major roles.
4. How long do results take?
After mailing the cheek-swab sample, results typically arrive in 2–4 weeks.
Embark averages 2 weeks; Wisdom Panel about 3 weeks. Some delays can occur due to sample quality or postal issues.
5. Which dog DNA test is best in 2025?
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Embark Breed + Health Kit — most comprehensive (350+ breeds, 250+ health risks).
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Wisdom Panel Premium — reliable and slightly faster turnaround.
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AKC DNA Kit — best for official registration or parentage verification.
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Ancestry Pet DNA — affordable breed-only option.
6. How do I collect my dog’s DNA sample?
Most kits use a cheek swab. You rub the provided brush inside your dog’s mouth for about 30 seconds, seal it in the tube, and mail it in a prepaid envelope. No needles or blood are required.
7. Can DNA tests identify mixed-breed dogs accurately?
Yes—modern kits can detect tiny breed percentages (as low as 1–2%) and show family-tree visuals of ancestors up to great-grandparents.
Accuracy improves with the company’s database size, and Embark currently has one of the largest.
8. Are dog DNA tests worth the money?
For most owners, yes. They help you understand your dog’s behavior, exercise needs, and potential health risks.
If you’re breeding, rescuing, or dealing with behavioral issues, the insights are often invaluable.
9. Can DNA tests confirm parentage or registration for AKC?
Only AKC-approved tests can officially verify lineage for registration purposes.
Embark and Wisdom Panel provide parentage data, but the AKC DNA Program uses its own kit (US $55) for official records.
10. What happens if results seem wrong or surprising?
Occasionally, mixed breeds can show unexpected results due to shared genetic overlap between breeds or limited sample data.
If results seem off, contact the lab for clarification. Many offer free re-analysis if you provide additional info about your dog’s known lineage.
Fact Check
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Reference: Thesprucepets.com
