Answers to common DNA testing questions.

DNAOM focuses on selected health and pet DNA testing categories rather than trying to cover every type of genetic test. Available areas include genetic health testing, dog DNA testing, and cat DNA testing.

Begin with the question you want the test to help answer. A health-related genetic test, dog breed test, and feline disease test are designed for different purposes. Our guide to choosing the right DNA test can help you narrow the options.

Most testing involves collecting an appropriate biological sample, submitting it for laboratory analysis, and receiving a report based on the type of genetic analysis performed. Learn more in our guide to how DNA testing works.

No. Tests can differ in the genetic markers examined, laboratory method, sample requirements, intended purpose, and type of report provided. Tests should be compared within the relevant category rather than treated as interchangeable.

Accuracy depends on several factors, including the type of test, laboratory method, sample quality, and what is being measured. See are DNA tests accurate? for a more detailed explanation.

Collection depends on the selected test. Many at-home DNA testing options use a cheek or mouth swab where appropriate. Always follow the instructions supplied with the specific test you order.

Many DNA testing options are designed around convenient at-home collection. Visit at-home DNA test kits for more information about how home collection can work.

Some supported tests use simple collection methods such as oral swabs. Learn more on our non-invasive sample collection page.

Sample quality can affect laboratory processing. Follow the product-specific instructions carefully and avoid improvising collection methods that are not included in the testing directions.

Laboratory turnaround is generally associated with the point at which the sample has been received and accepted for processing rather than the day the kit was ordered or shipped. Review the specific product details for the most relevant timing information.

Processing time varies by test, sample, and laboratory workflow. DNAOM avoids applying a single turnaround promise to every test. See how long DNA test results take for additional guidance.

The report depends on the test. A dog breed report may present breed-related findings, while a health-focused test may organize genetic information around a specific health question. Explore breed identification reports and health insight reports for examples of these reporting categories.

Begin by reviewing what the test was designed to evaluate, then read each section of the report within that context. Our guide to how to read DNA results provides additional support.

DNAOM includes focused options such as the DNA methylation test, lactose intolerance DNA test, and celiac disease genetic test. Visit genetic health testing for the broader category.

Genetic testing and clinical diagnosis are not automatically the same thing. The meaning and intended use depend on the specific test. Health-related results should be interpreted according to the scope stated for that test and, where appropriate, discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

Methylation testing examines information related to DNA methylation or genetic pathways associated with methylation, depending on the specific test methodology. Learn more at what is methylation testing?

The answer depends on the test. DNAOM's dog-related options include dog breed DNA testing, dog disease testing, and dog DNA profiling.

Dog DNA testing generally involves collecting a suitable sample and analyzing genetic markers relevant to the selected test. See how dog DNA tests work for more detail.

Breed identification testing can provide ancestry context when a dog's background is unknown or incomplete. Learn more about how breed identification reports can help rescues.

DNAOM includes cat disease testing and the PKD cat test. The broader cat DNA testing page can help you explore available feline testing categories.

Result delivery depends on the selected product and associated workflow. Learn more about DNAOM's private results dashboard and review product-specific information before ordering.

Review DNAOM's privacy policy for information about how data and website-related information are handled.

This FAQ page does not use a public pricing table. Visit the DNA test pricing and product information page or shop to review available testing options and relevant product information.

Visit DNAOM support or contact DNAOM if you need help locating the testing category most relevant to your question.