Comparing Wisdom Panel vs Embark: Which Can Help You Better Identify Your Dog’s Breed?
If you’ve ever rescued a dog from a shelter or found a stray on the street, you might be curious about their breed. While most breeds have unique physical characteristics, mixed-breed dogs can be hard to identify just by looking at them. This is where DNA tests come in.
Two of the most popular dog DNA tests on the market today are Wisdom Panel and Embark. Both companies offer comprehensive DNA testing kits that can help pet owners identify their dog’s breed or breeds. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll compare the two to help you make an informed decision.
Wisdom Panel
Wisdom Panel was one of the first companies to offer dog DNA tests. Their tests can identify over 350 breeds, types, and varieties, making it one of the most comprehensive tests available. In addition to breed identification, Wisdom Panel can also identify potential health risks based on your dog’s genetic makeup.
The Wisdom Panel DNA test works by collecting a sample from your dog’s cheek using a swab. You then mail the swab to the Wisdom Panel laboratory, where it is analyzed. Results typically take around two to three weeks to come back.
One of the downsides of Wisdom Panel is that it doesn’t test for wolf or coyote DNA. This means that if your dog is a mix of a domestic dog and a wild canine, their breed might not be accurately identified.
Embark
Embark is another popular dog DNA testing company. Their tests can identify over 350 breeds, and they also test for wolf and coyote DNA. In addition to breed identification, Embark can also test for genetic health risks and traits like coat color and shedding.
The Embark DNA test works by collecting a sample from your dog’s cheek using a swab. You then mail the swab to the Embark laboratory, where it is analyzed. Results typically take around two to four weeks to come back.
One of the downsides of Embark is that their tests are slightly pricier than Wisdom Panel’s. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive test that includes wolf and coyote DNA, Embark might be worth the extra cost.
Comparison
When it comes to comparing Wisdom Panel and Embark, both companies offer comprehensive DNA testing kits that can help pet owners identify their dog’s breed or breeds. However, there are some key differences to consider.
Wisdom Panel is slightly more affordable than Embark, but it doesn’t test for wolf or coyote DNA. Embark, on the other hand, is more expensive but offers a more comprehensive test that includes wolf and coyote DNA. Both companies offer health and trait testing, which can be helpful for pet owners looking to get a better understanding of their dog’s health and behavior.
Conclusion
Overall, both Wisdom Panel and Embark offer high-quality DNA testing kits for pet owners looking to identify their dog’s breed or breeds. While Wisdom Panel is more affordable, Embark offers a more comprehensive test that includes wolf and coyote DNA. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and your specific needs as a pet owner. Regardless of which test you choose, both companies offer insightful and informative results that can help you better understand your furry friend.
