Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Dog Dna Tests

Basepaws Dog DNA Test vs Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 3.0). Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test is best for: owners managing hereditary conditions or verifying purebred lineage who plan to review findings with a veterinarian. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Basepaws Dog DNA Test
Ranked #5 in Best Dog Dna Tests
Basepaws Dog DNA Test
1 sourceall derived$74.99as of Oct 11

The Basepaws Dog DNA Test combines a breed breakdown and a genetic health screen from a single cheek swab. CNET's reviewer ran it side by side with Wisdom Panel Premium on her rescue dog: the swab was easier on the dog, but the first sample had to be redone, results took four to six weeks, and the breed breakdown was broader, lumping the smallest share into "scent hound lineage". CNET concluded Wisdom Panel was the more thorough test.

Strengths
  • — Single sponge-style swab that CNET's dog tolerated better than Wisdom Panel's swabs
  • — Breed percentages and a genetic health screen in one kit; CNET's report covered 211 health markers
  • — Basepaws sent a free replacement kit right away when CNET's first sample failed
Watch-outs
  • — Results take four to six weeks, against about two weeks for Wisdom Panel in CNET's test
  • — CNET's first sample had to be redone, which it learned nearly a month after mailing it
  • — Broader breed calls than Wisdom Panel, such as "scent hound lineage", and no behavioral traits, per CNET
$74.99 · Buy at basepaws.comFull review →
Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Dog Dna Tests
Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test
2 sources$139as of Oct 16

The Embark Breed+Health kit analyzes over 200,000 genetic markers to identify ancestry from more than 350 breeds and screen for over 250 health conditions. TotalVet found that this extensive dataset allows the test to compare DNA against village dogs globally, providing granular breed breakdowns even for complex mixes. knowyourdna noted that while the comprehensive list includes critical screenings like MDR1 sensitivity, these results are data points rather than clinical diagnoses requiring veterinary follow-up. Its $159 regular price ($139 on sale at Embark's store when checked) is nearly double that of budget competitors, making it best suited for owners managing hereditary conditions or verifying purebred lineage who plan to review findings with a veterinarian.

Strengths
  • — Screens for over 250 genetic health conditions and drug sensitivities in the Breed+Health kit
  • — Analyzes more than 200,000 genetic markers using a research-grade platform developed with Cornell University
  • — Identifies breed composition from a database of over 350 breeds including village dogs
Watch-outs
  • — The Breed+Health kit is priced at $159, which is nearly double the cost of some budget competitors
  • — Some genetic tests included in the report are breed-specific and may not be relevant to all dogs
$139 · Buy at embarkvet.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Basepaws Dog DNA Test

Basepaws screens for over 280 genetic health markers, which is more than any other pet DNA test according to the manufacturer, whereas Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test analyzes over 200,000 genetic markers. The Wisdom Panel Premium DNA Kit lists a turnaround of about 3 weeks, while Basepaws takes 4 to 6 weeks to process.

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

The Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test analyzes more than 200,000 genetic markers and includes a relative finder feature to connect owners with other tested dogs.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBasepaws Dog DNA TestEmbark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test
Breeds Identified300+ breeds analyzed350+ breeds
Genetic MarkersOver 280 genetic markers200,000+
Turnaround Time4-6 weeks2-4 weeks
Sample Collectionat-home cheek swabCheek swab
ShippingU.S. Shipping is FREE both waysFree within the United States
Health Conditions—250+ screened
Dimensions—1.2 x 3.5 x 5.8 inches; 4 ounces
← See the full ranking of best dog dna tests