American Kennel Club Introduces Enhanced DNA Test Kits

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest dog registry and leading industry authority and advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce that an enhanced DNA test kit is now available. This new product utilizes an improved method of submitting canine DNA samples to the American Kennel Club.

The updated AKC DNA kits contain a barcode and an activation code, which customers will enter via an online portal along with their contact and dog information. Paper forms are no longer required, and customers will now be directed to mail their DNA samples directly to the lab.

“DNA testing is a powerful tool in ensuring reliable registration records,” said Mark Dunn, Executive Vice President of the American Kennel Club. “The AKC is proud to offer highly accurate and informative services through its DNA Profile Program. These new, updated DNA kits will greatly reduce turnaround time, streamlining the entire process for our customers.”

The new DNA kits will automatically send status updates and notifications via email, eliminating guesswork and keeping customers informed throughout the entire process. Results and DNA certificates will still be mailed directly to the customer when the processing of the sample is complete.

The current non-barcoded AKC DNA test kits (both prepaid and regular $50 kits) are being phased out. Any AKC DNA kits purchased prior to the barcoded kit update will still be accepted for processing. The original procedure of mailing the sample, payment and completed forms directly to AKC DNA Operations will still be required for processing these formerly non-barcoded kits.

Tests are routinely used for individual identification, parentage testing and certification of pedigree records. The AKC currently has a canine DNA database of nearly one million DNA profiles, the oldest and largest of its kind in the world. For more information contact dna@akc.org or call 919-816-3508.