If you are into the Wolfdog or Wolfalike scene, you have probably heard of Embark. But what exactly is it? In this blog post, I’ll explain what Embark is, what it can do, and how to order an Embark test for your dog.
What is Embark?
Embark is an American company specialising in DNA analysis for dogs. It was founded in 2015 by scientists and veterinarians who are passionate about canine health and genetics. Their goal: to test dogs for genetic diseases and thus improve the lives of our four-legged friends.
The founders, Ryan and Adam Boyko, have even spent years travelling to the most remote places on earth to research dog genetics. They collected saliva samples from dogs and analysed their DNA to find out more about the animals‘ health, ancestry and peculiarities.
What can Embark offer you?
Embark offers DNA tests for dogs that are carried out using a cheek swab. The test can provide information on many different aspects of your dog, including:
- Genetic health: Embark tests for genetic diseases that your dog may have and can be tested for.
- Breed composition: If your dog is a mixed breed, Embark can show which breeds are in it. It can also detect whether there are wolf percentages through wolfdog hybrids. For purebred dogs, Embark will 100% indicate the breed – provided that the dog is actually purebred and Embark has analysed enough comparative samples of that breed.
- Traits: These include coat colour, structure, length or special physical characteristics such as wolf claws.
- Genetic inbreeding coefficient (COI): The genetic inbreeding coefficient is the most accurate way to measure inbreeding. Unlike calculations based on a dog’s pedigree, the genetic COI looks directly at your dog’s DNA. This makes it possible to determine the degree of homozygosity.
- Parentage verification: If both parents are also registered with Embark, your dog’s parentage can also be confirmed.
By the way: You can learn how to read an Embark profile here!
What different tests are available on embark?
The Embark range is diverse. Here are the main tests:
1. Breed & Genetic Health Test: This comprehensive test includes everything from breed composition to genetic diseases, fur colours and COI. It is the best choice if you want to get as much information as possible about your dog. This test is what we mean when we talk about an Embark profile.
2. Breed ID Test: This test only determines the breed composition of your dog. Ideal if you are only interested in your dog’s origin.
3. Age Test: This test estimates the age of your dog based on their DNA methylation. This way, you can find out how old your dog really is.
4. Gut Health Test: This test examines your dog’s digestive system for bacterial imbalances. However, it is only shipped within the United States.
5. Oral Health Test: It analyses your dog’s oral health by examining bacteria in the mouth. This test is also only shipped within the United States.
How do I order?
Once you’ve decided on an Embark test, it’s best to order it directly from the Embark website. The ‘Breed & Genetic Health Test’ is the most popular choice and provides you with the most information. How long shipping from the US to your country takes depends on a variety of factors. However, it usually takes about 10 to 12 days.
And then?
After you receive the test, follow these steps:
1. Create an account with Embark for you and your dog.
2. Activate the swab code, which starts with ‘EM-XXXX’.
3. Take your dog’s saliva sample according to the instructions. Make sure that your dog has not eaten at least 30 minutes before. For puppies, it is recommended to take the sample immediately after sleeping before the little creatures have intense contact with their mother and siblings again.
4. Pack the sample carefully and send it back to the USA. Important: Remember to attach a customs declaration clearly visible.
Even with free shipments, such as samples or advertising material, you must fill out a customs declaration CN22 or CN23. You can get these from your national postal service, in Germany, for example, from Deutsche Post – either online or at a branch office.
- Always fill out the declaration completely.
- For cheap samples, set the goods value at €0.10, not ‘0’.
- Always indicate the country of origin of the goods.
- Describe the sample exactly, e.g. ‘Sample XY’.
Note the customs regulations of the destination country.
How long does it take?
Now it’s time to be patient! It’s impossible to say exactly how long the return shipment to the US will take, as it depends on the shipping method and costs. I chose UPS with tracking, and the samples arrived at the Embark laboratory within 3 business days. Be aware of Deutsche Post, where express shipping is no longer offered for private individuals.
It usually takes about 4-6 weeks from there for the results to be analysed at the laboratory and for you to be able to view them online.
Embark can provide valuable information about your dog that will help you better understand its health and well-being. Whether you want to learn more about its heritage or detect genetic diseases early, Embark gives you the tools to do just that.
