Embark Announces Contest To Find The World’s Weirdest Dog

PR Newswire

BOSTON, Oct. 15, 2026

Submit your dog’s weirdest quirks now through November 15th for a chance to win a Times Square billboard feature and additional prizes.

BOSTON, Oct. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Starting today, Embark Veterinary, Inc., the global leader in dog health & genetics, is searching for the world’s weirdest dog. With 3+ million dogs tested, Embark knows no two dogs are alike and that DNA can shape mannerisms that leave owners scratching their heads. Following the recent launch of Embark’s new Behavior Insights & Training feature, which reveals how a dog’s DNA can shape their everyday quirks, this contest celebrates the strangely unique habits that make our dogs who they are.

Embark Photo Contest

Every dog owner has a “my dog does this weird thing” story. Some quirks may trace back to DNA, some are learned, and some remain a total mystery. Whatever the cause, understanding them helps owners care for their dogs better. That’s why Embark is celebrating these weird dogs!

To enter, owners simply upload a photo or video of their pup’s strangest habit for a shot at grand prizes, including a featured spot on a Times Square billboard, gift cards, and free Embark DNA kits. Public voting is open to everyone, so entrants can share their entry link to rally support. More of the contest details can be found below.

Contest Tip: Not sure what counts as “weird”? A few ideas to get you thinking:
- Sleeps upside down in the bathtub
- Refuses to walk past a certain house, every single time
- Carries a sock around the house but never chews it
- Stares at the wall for no clear reason
- Won’t eat dinner unless you “prepare it”

Contest Dates: October 15, 2026 – November 15, 2026
How to Enter: Upload a photo or video of your dog’s quirk along with an optional short story at https://embarkvet.com/worlds-weirdest-dog-contest.
Voting: Public voting is open to everyone, dog owners and non-owners alike, until November 15th at https://embarkvet.com/worlds-weirdest-dog-contest-voting.
Prizes:
- 1st Place: Crowned the “World’s Weirdest Dog,” featured on a Times Square billboard, a $200 gift card, and a free Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test with the Behavior Insights & Training upgrade
- 2nd–5th Place: A $150 gift card each and a free Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test with the Behavior Insights & Training upgrade
- 6th–15th Place: A free Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test with the Behavior Insights & Training upgrade.

For more information or to enter, please visit https://embarkvet.com/worlds-weirdest-dog-contest.

About Embark
Embark Veterinary, Inc. was launched in 2015 by brothers Adam and Ryan Boyko, who share a passion for scientific research and a lifelong love for dogs. Starting with its best-in-class canine DNA test, Embark has built a platform for scientific discovery that helps accelerate advancements in personalized dog care. Embark has analyzed data from over 3 million dogs, powering the world’s largest canine DNA database and research platform. Its dog DNA tests that help dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians learn about their dog’s breed, health, and ancestry, and its tests fuel ongoing research to help dogs lead longer, healthier lives. Embark is an official research partner of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. For more information, visit www.embarkvet.com, and follow on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.