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Best Dog DNA Test Kits: A Veterinarian's Review

If you've been curious about your pup's heritage, you may be surprised to learn about the existence of dog DNA test kits. Similar to the ones made for humans, these canine versions look at genetic markers that provide information about breed. Though there are multiple dog DNA test kit brands, quality can vary. In my opinion, as a veterinarian, the top two are clearly Embark and Wisdom Panel. Embark tests over 230,000 genetic markers, which they say is more than twice that of their top competitor, Wisdom Panel. Wisdom Panel says they're the most accurate for dog breed testing.

I've rounded up several kits by each of them and you can decide which you prefer based on your needs. If you have the means, it could be fun to run a test from each company for personal comparison.

What is a dog DNA test?

Dog DNA tests are a way for pet owners, dog breeders, and veterinarians to learn more about an animal's genetic makeup. An at-home DNA test kit collects cells from the inside of your dog's mouth, which are then used to analyze genetic material for information on breed identification, physical traits—like if your dog might experience heavy seasonal shedding—and genetic health risks. (However, positive results for a genetic risk isn't a diagnosis. More on this later.) You mail the sample to the company and in several weeks, they email you a report.

There are also DNA tests that can be run on blood, but if your veterinarian orders these, they will draw your pet's blood and submit the sample to a veterinary genetics laboratory.

What to look for in a dog DNA test What are the features of the test?

Look for a test whose capabilities and focus meet your needs:

Are you looking to identify what blend of breeds your rescue pup is?

If your primary purpose is breed identification, then you'll want to know how big the company's breed database is. For example, Basepaws' DNA test kit box says 200+ breeds (though the product description on their website says 300+).

Do you have a purebred dog and you want to see if they have genetic markers for certain medical issues?

Look for a test that offers either the most genetic disease markers or find a kit that is breed specific. Orivet offers breeds-specific kits, like a French bulldog kit, a Labrador kit, etc. But keep in mind, a positive result doesn't automatically mean your pet will get that disease. More on this later.

Do you want to learn about your dog's ancestry or do you want to locate your pup's siblings or other relatives?

Some kits offer ancestry information and the ability to find relatives in their database. Or maybe you're interested in testing for behavior traits (like hunting-related food motivation) and physical traits like the possible weight range your puppy might fall within as an adult.

Some companies only offer one dog DNA test kit. Some have several choices ranging from mainly breed identification, screening for breeds and genetic health risks, and screening for various physical traits.

How accurate is the test?

I'll go into more detail on accuracy later, but on Embark's website a percentage is readily provided on every single product page (99% accuracy). Others, like Wisdom Panel, have it in their FAQs section ("at least 99% accuracy"). On some companies' pages, you can search for accuracy information, click on multiple links, and still not find an actual number, e.G. Basepaws, Koko Genetics, and DNA My Dog.

How big is their breed database

Look for a website that clearly states how big their database is. If you have a mixed breed dog and one or more of their various breeds aren't in a company's database, they're not going to be able to provide you with that information. The database size is usually stated on the box itself but more information can be found on the company website. Some also include testing to determine if your dog is part coyote or wolf.

Our top picks for dog DNA tests Best overall dog DNA test: Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Embark's research partnership with Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine—which is consistently ranked in the top three veterinary colleges in the United States—is a key factor in what makes them a leader in dog DNA test kits. Whether you're curious about your dog's breed or you want an idea of how much they'll weigh as an adult, Embark has a lot to offer. Fun fact: Embark is also the official dog DNA test brand for Westminster Kennel Club.

Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 350+ breeds, tests for over 250 genetic health risks, tests for 35+ traits like size, coat, and grooming needs
  • Results ETA: 2 - 4 weeks
  • Price on publish: From $127.00
  • Pros:
  • Discount if you purchase two kits
  • For most dogs, the test can identify breed mix back to their great-grandparents
  • Easy to use
  • Test is processed in a human-grade lab
  • Find your pet's relatives in the Embark database
  • Includes MDR1 test to detect the potential for certain drug sensitivities
  • Can identify if a dog is part wolf, coyote, or dingo
  • If contaminant DNA is detected in your pet's sample, they'll send you a new swab
  • From your Embark account, you can email results to your veterinarian
  • You and your veterinarian can discuss your dog's results with one of their geneticists
  • Cons: The bottom line:

    With their multiple DNA test kits, transparency about accuracy, and research collaboration with a top-notch college of veterinary medicine, Embark is the overall winner in my book.

    Best overall dog DNA test

    Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test Best dog DNA health test: Wisdom Panel Premium

    This test offers extensive health insight and it's processed in a human-grade lab. Wisdom Panel is also a partner of the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA), which, among other things like funding research, gathers canine genetic information in voluntary databases.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 365+ breeds, test for over 265 genetic conditions, tests for 50+ physical traits
  • Results ETA: 2 - 3 weeks
  • Price on publish: $119.99
  • Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Includes MDR1 test
  • Determines ancestry back to three generations
  • Free phone consultation with a veterinarian for 'at risk' findings
  • Find your dog's relatives
  • Cons:
  • You can't share your dog's results electronically (from your account) with a third party, e.G. With your veterinarian, but you can print them out or screenshot them
  • The bottom line:

    With screening for over 265 genetic conditions and a phone consultation for 'at risk' findings, Wisdom Panel Premium is a great choice.

    Best dog DNA test for mixed breeds: Embark Breed ID Dog DNA Test

    Embark's website states, "Of the mixed breed dogs that Embark has tested, 80% had a breed contribution small enough that only Embark would detect it." This makes Embark's Breed Dog DNA Test the best choice for mixed breed dogs.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 350+ breeds
  • Results ETA: 2 - 4 weeks
  • Price on publish: $99
  • Pros:
  • Online account settings allow you to keep your dog's results private if you want
  • Find your dog's relatives in the database, with the option to connect with them
  • Easy to read report
  • For most dogs, determines ancestry back to three generations
  • Discount if you purchase two kits
  • Cons:
  • No health screening
  • No trait tests
  • The bottom line:

    Find out what breeds your dog is in this easy to read report and then compare notes if you opt to connect with relatives who are also in the database.

    Best dog DNA test for mixed breeds

    Embark Breed ID Dog DNA Test Best dog DNA test for purebreds: Embark Ancestry + Health Dog DNA Test for Purebred Pets

    As with the other Embark health test kits, their screening for purebred dogs can help identify genetic risk for conditions affecting various parts of the body, such as the eyes, heart, skin, and the musculoskeletal system. They also screen for the MDR1 drug sensitivity mutation. Keep in mind that having a genetic risk for a disease is not a clinical diagnosis. More on this later.

    If you're interested in a breed-specific option, e.G. You want a test that specifically is for the genetic risks of a French bulldog, consider Orivet's Purebred DNA test. However, I couldn't find information where they state a percentage for how accurate their tests are.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 350+ breeds, tests for over 250 genetic health risks, tests for 35+ traits like size, coat, and grooming needs
  • Results ETA: 2 - 4 weeks
  • Price on publish: $139
  • Pros:
  • Measures genetic diversity, which offers insight into long-term health
  • Discount if you purchase two kits
  • Easy to use
  • Find your pet's relatives in the Embark database
  • Includes MDR1 test
  • If contaminant DNA is detected in your pet's sample, they'll send you a new swab
  • From your Embark account, you can email results to your veterinarian
  • Cons:
  • Family tree feature (determining breeds back to great-grandparents) not included
  • Price
  • The bottom line:

    If you want a report on possible health risks for your purebred pup, this DNA test kit is a great choice.

    Best dog DNA test for purebreds

    Embark Ancestry + Health Dog DNA Test for Purebred Pets Best dog DNA test for breed identification: Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery

    Wisdom Panel states they have the world's largest breed database which covers all AKC registered breeds and some rare breeds as well. However, if your dog is a mixed breed, pick Embark's Breed Dog DNA Test, which is more accurate. For mixed breeds, Wisdom Panel's Breed Discovery is 93% accurate according to veterinary geneticist, Dr. Angela Hughes.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 365+ breeds
  • Results ETA: 2 - 3 weeks
  • Price on publish: $84.99
  • Pros:
  • Includes MDR1 test
  • Determines your dog's ancestry back to three generations
  • 99.9% of dogs match with a relative in the database
  • Easy to use
  • Price
  • Cons:
  • Other than MDR1, no health tests
  • Physical traits tests aren't included
  • Can't share your dog's results electronically through your account
  • The bottom line:

    Identify your dog's breeds and possibly find some of your pup's relatives with the Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery test kit.

    Best dog DNA test for breed identification

    Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery Best dog age DNA test: Embark Dog Age Test

    There are two DNA-based age test methodologies and Embark uses the most accurate, called methylation. In human medicine, methylation has been well established as being able to determine the biological age of any tissue. Methylation is also being researched to evaluate things like life expectancy. Biological age is different from chronological, or calendar, age, which I'll discuss in more detail later. Methylation, however, can also estimate calendar age and that is what Embark provides with this kit.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Estimates your dog's calendar age
  • Results ETA: 4 - 5 weeks
  • Price on publish: $159
  • Pros:
  • 90% of dogs have a true birthday within the provided 18 month age range estimate
  • Helpful information, such as on preventative care, based on your pet's life stage
  • Your dog's information can contribute to canine age research
  • Cons:
  • Price
  • Wait time to get results is longer than the alternate DNA aging methodology, which takes two to three weeks.
  • The bottom line:

    If you want to find out an age range estimate for your dog, Embark uses the most accurate methodology.

    Best budget dog DNA test: Wisdom Panel Essential

    With the world's largest breed database, Wisdom Panel Essential is reasonably priced. This DNA test kit is easy to use and gives you breed information and some limited health screening.

    Specifications:
  • Special features: Screens for 365+ breeds, tests for 25+ genetic health conditions, tests for 50+ physical traits
  • Results ETA: 2 - 3 weeks
  • Price on publish: $78.74
  • Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to understand results
  • Determines your dog's ancestry back to three generations
  • Cons:
  • Can't share your dog's results electronically through your account
  • The bottom line:

    For the price and quick turnaround time, this is a great breed DNA test with some health and trait tests as well.

    Why should I try a dog DNA test?

    Trying a dog DNA test is helpful if you want to learn more about your dog's breed makeup, ancestry, behavior, genetic risk factors, and physical traits. Knowing these things can help guide you in offering more informed care for your pet. (Breed and health info can even provide some data points for things like choosing the best dog food for puppies or the best senior dog food.) It's also a fun way to potentially find some of your dog's relatives.

    How did I select the best dog DNA tests?

    Both Embark and Wisdom Panel have a large database and multiple test kits options. Some of their competitors offer one or two options for kits (e.G. Basepaws and Ancestry offer one, Koko Genetics offers two). And on both Embark and Wisdom Panel's websites, it's easy to find their accuracy information with an actual percentage given.

    Both Embark and Wisdom Panel are also partnered with reputable research organizations: Embark with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, and Wisdom Panel with Morris Animal Foundation, OFA, and others. Both also use human-grade labs. (And I'm not saying that the other companies aren't partnered with reputable places and don't use human-grade labs.) Ultimately, the upfront transparency about accuracy—with a stated percentage—was a major factor in why I chose Embark and Wisdom Panel above their competitors.

    Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Are dog DNA tests really accurate?

    This is a debated topic because dog DNA test kits aren't regulated by the FDA and experts say there aren't peer-reviewed publications that evaluate test kit accuracy. So essentially, you have to trust what a company tells you. And some manufacturer's websites don't tell you in terms of a percentage how accurate their tests are.

    Other general things to keep in mind regarding accuracy is that a sufficient quantity of sample material is required, which means you need to swab your dog's mouth for a certain amount of time. For example, Embark specifically prefers 60 seconds and not 30 seconds. Wisdom Panel says 15 seconds. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions on how to swab your dog's cheek as well as how long to wait after your dog takes medication or eats—including nursing if a dog isn't weaned—before swabbing.

    Another important factor to consider is that for genetic health screening, a positive result means your dog is at increased risk for that medical issue but it doesn't tell you the actual probability that your dog will actually ever develop it. That's not a question that science can answer yet. Since it's not a diagnosis, discuss your results with a veterinarian or a geneticist at the DNA test kit company in addition to your personal veterinarian. Keep in mind that experience and knowledge about genetic testing varies among private practice veterinarians.

    If your pet doesn't have any positive results, that doesn't automatically mean they will never develop medical issues because there isn't a genetic test for every medical condition.

    Since you're taking a company's word for how accurate their test is, my recommendation is to pick a product where that information is openly shared. If you search through their website for 10 minutes and have to sift through scientific jargon and you still haven't found an answer…my personal preference would be to not buy from them.

    Why doesn't my dog look like the breeds on the report?

    Your dog's breed report tells you who they are at a DNA level, and that is not all about physical appearance. In fact, Embark's website notes that "Less than 1% of a dog's 20,000 genes impacts appearance."

    Other things to think about are how many breeds comprise both of your dog's parents—and their parents, etc? You can't rely on physical appearance to determine this. To complicate things, multiple genes can affect a single physical trait.

    And of the genes your dog inherited, which ones are actually being expressed? And are dominant genes being expressed or recessive genes? There are also random DNA mutations that can occur, which can affect a dog's physical appearance.

    What DNA test do vets use?

    They often use veterinary genetics laboratories for DNA testing, such as UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine or the University of Pennsylvania's PennGen Laboratories. Collecting a sample to submit to such a lab can sometimes involve a blood draw, which would be performed at your pet's veterinary clinic.

    Some veterinarians might also opt to use a cheek swab kit like Embark for Veterinarian DNA Test Kit. This kit provides veterinarians with more thorough information than a retail kit that pet owners can purchase online. Embark also has an online platform for veterinarians needing consultation services.

    Can dog DNA tell age?

    Depending on the testing method used, dog DNA can help estimate a dog's genetic age—which can vary from their chronological age—or it can be used to estimate both. Chronological, or calendar, age is based on when your dog was born. Genetic age—or biological age—is influenced by things like environment, nutrition, and disease. Such factors can cause a dog to be younger or older in terms of genetic age. As such, genetic age can be used to predict longevity. So if a dog (or person's) genetic age is younger than their calendar age, theoretically they'll live longer. If the genetic age is older, a dog's lifespan will likely be shorter.

    Some dog DNA test kits include genetic age (e.G. DNA My Dog) whereas Embark—who uses a different testing modality that's considered more accurate—offers a separate Dog Age Test Kit. The methodology that Embark uses is capable of determining both genetic age and calendar age, but the information they provide you with is an estimated range of your dog's chronological age.

    The two modalities used for estimating genetic age are telomere length and methylation, but the scope of these topics are beyond this article. More information can be found on Embark's website and DNA My Dog's 'Questions about the science' section. Interestingly, these genetic age methodologies have been researched in human medicine as a way to assess the quality of donor kidneys.


    How To Make Your Dog A Service Dog

    Service dogs are dogs that aid people with disabilities. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs help their owners perform tasks directly related to their disabilities. This is what distinguishes service dogs from emotional support dogs or other types of working dogs.

    Service dogs can be any breed or size, as long as they can assist their owners correctly. If you have a dog and want it to be your service dog, it's possible. But it's often best to adopt a dog that's already trained as a service dog. 

    Service dogs help people who have disabilities. There are dogs who are trained for this type of work. However, some people have their own dogs become a service dog. (Photo credit: iStock/Getty Images)

    The use of service dogs has rapidly grown in recent years, and that has created some confusion. Here are a few of the common questions and issues.

    Is a dog in a vest a service dog? Maybe. Some service dogs wear special vests, collars, or tags. But the ADA doesn't require any special identification on a service dog. And some dogs wearing ID vests and tags are not service dogs. 

    Emotional support dogs vs. Service dogs. Emotional support animals (ESAs) comfort a person simply with their presence. Dogs can be ESAs. But the ADA doesn't consider an ESA a service animal because it isn't trained to do a specific job or service for a person with a disability. However, some people with psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders have service dogs that are trained to sense a panic attack and take action to help. If the dog's role is only to comfort an anxious person, then it's an emotional support animal, not a service dog. 

    Other types of non-service dogs. Therapy dogs and their owners visit such places as hospitals, nursing homes, airports, and college dorms to give people a chance to interact with the animals. The petting and affection can help reduce stress. Therapy dogs also can help people who've have been through traumatic events such as natural disasters. Another type of non-service dog is the courthouse dog. They're are allowed, in some states, to be with a child or other vulnerable person during trials. Certain places – such as schools, courthouses, and medical buildings – might have a dog that stays there regularly to comfort anyone who needs it. These are called "facility dogs."

    Fake service dogs. Federal law allows service dogs into places where a pet might not otherwise be permitted. That has led some people to misrepresent their pets as service dogs when the animals don't have the training and don't perform specific tasks for their owners. These dogs can end up in situations they aren't trained to handle. That can be dangerous for them, people around them, and for trained service dogs. "Fake" service dogs can also undercut the public's understanding of what service dogs do and hurt acceptance for them. State and local governments are working on laws to address this problem.

    Service dogs are trained to work with people with disabilities. Those conditions can affect your physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or mental well-being. Dogs can be trained to pull wheelchairs, get medicine, remind you to take medicine, help keep you stable while walking, and alert you to important sounds or dangerous things in your way. 

    Types of service dogs include:

  • Hearing or signal dogs that alert people with hearing problems to sounds in the room or area
  • Dogs that help people who have physical disabilities or use wheelchairs to open doors or carry items
  • Guide dogs that help people with vision issues get around
  • Which disabilities qualify for a service dog? Some of the more common conditions are: 

  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease
  • Arthritis
  • Heart problems
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Paralysis
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Stroke
  • Vertigo
  • Blindness or low vision 
  • Deafness 
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Schizophrenia 
  • Autism
  • Psychiatric service dogs. These animals do a specific task or service for a person with a mental health condition. Service dogs for anxiety disorders, for instance, can sense changes in their owners and alert them to symptoms, such as an anxiety attack. If you have a dissociative disorder, a dog could help keep you from wandering into danger.

    Service dogs for autism. A service dog can help a keep person with autism safe. The dog might be trained to stop you from running or alert others if you're in a dangerous situation. Dogs can also interrupt harmful behaviors. A dog can ease transitions for those who have trouble reading social cues. For people who are especially young or non-verbal, their dogs can carry important information, such as emergency contacts. 

    Service dogs for veterans. If you're a veteran with PTSD, a dog can maintain your personal space in addition to alerting to symptoms of panic attacks or flashbacks.  A dog can make you more comfortable at home by searching a room and turning on lights.

    Service dogs for seizures. A dog can aid you during a seizure by moving you to a safe place, fetching medicine, using pressure to shorten the episode, or helping you regain consciousness. Dogs can also go for help or even make calls using special alert phones. Can dogs be trained to detect seizures before they happen? The research is unclear, though some believe dogs may be able to intuit changes in their owners naturally.

    Diabetic service dogs. These dogs are trained to detect dangerously high or low blood sugar. You can then test your blood and take the right medicine. A dog also can be trained to set off an alarm or alert someone else if you're having a medical emergency. Some can call for help using special phones. Dogs can also carry important information that will help first responders.

    People started training service dogs in the early 1900s. German shepherds used to be the most popular, but there are many different breeds of service dogs now. Among the most common: 

  • Golden retrievers
  • Labradors
  • Australian shepherds
  • Boxers
  • Collies
  • Standard poodles
  • Border collies
  • Airedales
  • Dobermans
  • Great Danes
  • Pomeranians
  • Bernese mountain dogs
  • Portuguese water dogs 
  • Some dogs excel as service animals because they're intelligent and easy to train, such as border collies and poodles. Pomeranians work well if you don't have a lot of space. Great Danes, because of their size, are sturdy companions if you have balance and mobility issues. Golden retrievers are bred to fetch objects. Labradors and Portuguese water dogs are especially friendly breeds. German shepherds and boxers are very protective.

    The cost of training a service dog can be as much as $25,000, which can include sessions to educate the owner and follow-up work. 

    Some groups that provide service dogs are nonprofits, and others are money-making businesses. There are organizations that provide service dogs for free or offer financial help. 

    Insurance doesn't usually cover the cost of a service dog. Veterans may be able to get a service dog covered through their VA benefits.

    You also can consider training your own dog as a service animal.

    There aren't any laws against training one yourself. But it's recommended to have your service dog trained by professional instructors.

    Training. No matter how you get a service dog, they usually go through a tough training program with an experienced trainer. In the last month of training, the service dog spends time together with you and the instructor. The instructor teaches the dog to help you specifically and tells you how to command, handle, and care for the dog.

    Organizations. Some training organizations are nonprofits that give you a free service dog or a grant to pay for one. Some might charge a fee. It's important to work with an experienced organization. Ask for recommendations and carefully check them out before choosing a dog. 

    You can find nonprofit groups, businesses, and individuals who train service dogs almost anywhere in the U.S.

    It's important, though, to work with an experienced and reputable source to get your service dog. Assistance Dogs International is a coalition of nonprofit organizations whose website lets you search for providers by region.

    Service dogs need obedience skills as well as other very specific skills. When you think about how to get a service dog, consider finding one with relevant traits.

    A service dog should:

  • Be calm
  • Be able to learn and hold onto information
  • Be alert, but not reactive
  • Be ready and willing to please
  • Be capable of handling lots of different situations and areas
  • Be trained to work with you directly for your disability
  • To train a service dog, you should start with basic obedience skills. These include:

  • House training, including pooping on command in some places
  • Focusing on you
  • Ignoring distractions
  • Being able to stay on task in new places with new people, smells, and animals
  • If you have a service dog, some laws apply. Generally, a service dog is allowed to go with you anywhere you go, even if regular dogs are not allowed.

    Local laws. Service dogs must meet local laws to be licensed, registered, and vaccinated and must obey public health laws. This means they can't swim in a public pool, but they have to be allowed on the pool deck. You can't be forced to register your dog as a service dog. Service dogs can't be refused because of their breed.

    Controlled. Service dogs must be under the control of their handler at all times. This means they can't be left alone in hotel rooms or in public spaces. They must be leashed and obedient unless they're working off-leash. For example, the dog could be off-leash to fetch or check an area out.

    Privacy. An employee in a public area can only ask you if the dog is a service dog required for a disability and what work the dog is trained to do. Staff members can't ask you to show your service dog doing the tasks. Also, an employee can't ask you for documentation or ask about your disability.

    Vests. Your service dog doesn't have to wear a vest in public. Some people with service dogs like to use vests so that other people in public don't touch the dog without permission.

    Where can service dogs go? Places service dogs include: 

  • Shops
  • Restaurants
  • Hospitals
  • Schools
  • Hotels
  • Housing at public and private universities
  • Public housing run by state, city, or county governments
  • Emergency shelters
  • Salad bars and self-serve food lines
  • In the plane's cabin with you when you fly, with certain exceptions
  • Know the law. Many programs offer service-dog certification programs. But these certifications don't prove that the dog is a service animal. In fact, the ADA doesn't require any sort of certificate or proof that your service dog is trained.

    Research whatever program you chose. If you decide to put your dog into a training program, do extensive research to make sure it's reputable. Training programs can cost thousands of dollars, so make sure you get your money's worth. Things like referrals and reviews can go a long way to ensure the best experience for you and your dog.

    Make sure you can answer two questions. The ADA says that you're only required to answer two questions if it is not apparent that your dog is a service dog: "Is the dog a service animal needed because of a disability?" and "What work or task has the dog been trained to do?" You must be able to accurately answer both questions for the dog to be seen as a service dog.

    Service dog registration. Mandatory registration of service animals is illegal, according to the ADA. Any municipality that says so violates the ADA. But regional registration and vaccination rules for pets also apply to service animals.

    Remember that the ADA leaves the training up to the dog owner entirely. As long as your service animal can fulfill your needs, it is a service animal. While this may require additional training to accomplish, it doesn't have to. 

    It's important to keep your dog healthy so that they can best help you. Give your dog access to plenty of fresh water and a balanced diet, and keep their vaccinations updated. Your dog also needs yearly visits to the vet to make sure you catch any changes in their health.


    Is Broccoli Good For Dogs?

    Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

    Broccoli is a health food powerhouse that's rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. And yes, dogs can eat broccoli.

    Whether your dog snuck a piece of broccoli behind your back or you're looking for a healthy snack for your pooch, you can rest assured that this green cruciferous vegetable is harmless and even healthy for most dogs to eat.

    However, there are a few exceptions. Here's what you should know before feeding broccoli to your dog.

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    Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?

    Yes they can. "Broccoli is a great healthy snack for dogs," says Dr. Danielle Rutherford, V.M.D., associate veterinarian with Westside Veterinary Center in Manhattan. "It can be fed raw or cooked, and it's a healthy addition to meals, which can add bulk as a low calorie topper to make dogs feel more full."

    However, your dog can eat too much broccoli, leading to stomach upset. Broccoli florets contain a compound called isothiocyanates that can cause gastric distress in dogs. Because of this, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends giving broccoli to dogs in small amounts.

    Potential Hazards of Broccoli for Dogs

    Along with the isothiocyanates, the high fiber content in broccoli can cause gas and bloating in dogs, as well as an upset stomach. It's best to start feeding your dog broccoli with a very small amount to see how your pooch handles it.

    Another potential hazard comes from feeding broccoli stalks, or stems, to dogs. These can be a potential choking hazard, the AKC warns. When giving broccoli stems to your dog, cut them up into small pieces and monitor your dog's intake to make sure they don't become lodged in the esophagus.

    Broccoli that's been prepared for humans may contain salt, fats and other seasonings that are potentially harmful to dogs. Only feed raw or cooked broccoli to dogs that's plain with no added seasoning or flavoring.

    When Dogs Shouldn't Eat Broccoli

    Broccoli also contains glucosinolates, which are compounds that can inhibit thyroid function. If your dog has a thyroid condition, ask your vet if it's safe to feed it broccoli.

    In light of the potential to cause gastric distress, exercise caution about giving your dog broccoli if it has a sensitive stomach or is prone to gas. And if your dog is on a prescription diet for a health condition, you should always consult your vet before feeding it anything other than its prescribed food.

    Can Puppies Have Broccoli?

    Growing puppies have very specific nutritional needs, and they also don't have fully developed digestive systems. Fiber-rich broccoli could cause more pronounced digestive issues in puppies than in adult dogs. It's generally not a good idea to give broccoli to puppies.

    How Much Broccoli Can a Dog eat?

    "I would recommend limiting the broccoli to no more than 10% of your pet's normal daily meal intake," Rutherford says.

    Keep in mind that 10% of a diet will look different depending on the size of the dog. For a tiny Yorkie, that's only one or two pieces, whereas a Saint Bernard can handle a large handful of florets.

    How To Safely Feed Broccoli to Dogs

    Follow these tips to safely feed broccoli to your dog:

  • Thoroughly wash fresh broccoli to remove pesticides, bacteria and other contaminants.
  • Cut raw broccoli into bite-size pieces before serving.
  • If cooking, steam or lightly boil the broccoli to retain the nutrients.
  • Let cooked broccoli cool before giving it to your dog.
  • Serve broccoli for dogs plain, with no added fats or seasoning.
  • Feed it in small amounts and discontinue if your dog shows signs of gastric distress.
  • Is Broccoli Good for Dogs?

    When fed correctly, broccoli is a highly nutritious and healthy snack for dogs. With its high fiber and plant protein content, it's a filling, low-calorie, low-carb treat option for dogs that need to limit their calorie intake.

    Health Benefits of Broccoli for Dogs

    While dogs should get most of their daily calories and nutrients from a well-balanced, high-quality dog food, broccoli has a number of health benefits that can enhance your dog's diet when given in moderation.

    Antioxidants

    Antioxidants are chemicals in fruits and vegetables that neutralize free radicals that can cause inflammation and cell damage. Broccoli contains the antioxidants lutein and sulforaphane.

    Fiber

    Dogs need both soluble fiber and insoluble fiber to promote gut health and good digestion, and broccoli is a good source of both.

    Soluble fiber ferments in the gut and feeds good bacteria, which promotes a healthy colon and may help prevent cancer and diabetes in dogs, according to the AKC. Insoluble fiber, which doesn't dissolve, helps dogs feel full and also helps to keep their digestive system regular.

    Vitamins and Minerals

    Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins C and K, as well as folic acid. It also contains minerals and electrolytes, including:

  • Magnesium
  • Sodium
  • Potassium
  • Chromium
  • Other Vegetables Dogs Can Eat

    Broccoli isn't the only vegetable that's safe and healthy for dogs to eat. Here are more safe vegetables to feed your dog:

  • Beets
  • Bell peppers
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Corn
  • Green beans
  • Peas
  • Spinach
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Find The Best Pet Insurance Companies Of 2024 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Can dogs eat raw broccoli?

    Dogs can eat raw broccoli. Be sure to wash it first to remove pesticides and other contaminants and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.

    Can dogs eat broccoli stems?

    Broccoli stems, or stalks, can be a choking hazard. You can feed broccoli stems to your dog if you cut them into small pieces first.

    Can dogs eat cooked broccoli?

    Yes, dogs can eat cooked broccoli that doesn't have any added fats or seasonings.

    Can dogs eat broccoli and cauliflower?

    Broccoli and cauliflower are both cruciferous vegetables, along with brussels sprouts and cabbage, all of which are safe for dogs to eat in moderation.

    Can dogs eat steamed broccoli?

    Yes. Steaming is a good way to cook broccoli for your dog without depleting it of nutrients.

    Can dogs eat broccoli and cheese?

    Some dogs can safely eat cheese in moderation, but some dogs can't tolerate dairy products and become sick from eating them. Also, cheese is high in fat that can cause dogs to gain weight if fed too much. If your dog can tolerate cheese, they can eat small amounts of broccoli with it as long as it doesn't contain any added fats or seasonings, like butter or salt.

    Can dogs eat broccoli sprouts?

    Yes, dogs can eat broccoli sprouts, which are just baby broccoli plants. They contain a higher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants than mature broccoli plants, including 100 times the amount of the antioxidant sulforaphane, which may be effective at reducing inflammation and helping to prevent cancer.

    Can dogs eat frozen broccoli?

    Frozen broccoli could pose a choking hazard to dogs. It's best to let it thaw and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces before feeding it to your dog.






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