How Genetic Traits Are Inherited
Genetic diseases (or defects) can be inherited in two main ways: simple and complex. The simple diseases are sometimes called “Mendelian” or “single-gene”, because they are often the result of a single genetic mutation (change) in one gene; for these, we can point a finger and say, “That change there!,” is the one causing the disease or defect. Once a genetic test is available for these types of diseases, breeders can use the results of such tests to help plan matings, effectively eliminate the disease from the breed, and guarantee an affected puppy is never produced.
For the more complex genetic conditions, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, or even personality, we know that multiple genes (sometimes very many) are contributing in combination to create the trait (disease condition, behavioral trait, etc.). There are no easy, single-gene genetic tests here. Rather, as much as possible, screening tests need to be performed in order to find and breed only the healthiest dogs possible. This might include annual eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist, screening radiographs (x-rays) of the hips and/or the elbows at a certain age, and even behavioral assessments, as appropriate. Ultimately, these types of screening tests are the scientific application of the old adage: “Breed the best to the best and hope for the best.”
Skull shape is one of the most interesting fixed differences among modern dog breeds and may be the result of only 1-2 genes (Wayne & vonHoldt, 2012).
Wayne, R.K. & vonHoldt, B.M. (2012). Evolutionary genomics of dog domestication. Mamm. Genome, 23, 3-18.
how genetic Traits Are inherited Library
Resources focused for the welfare needs of dogs living in breeding kennels, large or small scale.
Bare bones – If you only have a few minutes for the basics
SNACKS – If you want to learn more
Canine Inherited Disorders Database - How Are Defects Inherited
Canine Genetics for Dog Breeders: Part 1
Understanding Genetics - Stanford at the Tech Museum
Chapter 2: Dog Breeds and Their Behavior
Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog
Hereditary Diseases in Dogs
Gregorie Leroy's Blog (genetics)
Kibble – If you want to take a deep dive into the science
The Challenges of Pedigree Dog Health: Approaches to Combating Inherited Disease
Structural Variants in Genes Associated with Human Williams-Beuren Syndrome Underlie Stereotypical Hypersociability in Domestic Dogs
Trainability and Boldness Traits Differ Between Dog Breed Clusters Based on Conventional Breed Categories and Genetic Relatedness
“Boldness” in the Domestic Dog Differs Among Breeds and Breed Groups
Human-Directed Social Behaviour in Dogs Shows Significant Heritability
Breed-Dependent Differences in the Onset of Fear-Related Avoidance Behavior in Puppies
Dog Behavior Co-Varies With Height, Bodyweight and Skull Shape
Highly Heritable and Functionally Relevant Breed Differences in Dog Behaviour
The Relationship Between Functional Breed Selection and Attachment Pattern in Family Dogs (Canis familiaris)
Genomic Data Illuminates Demography, Genetic Structure and Selection of a Popular Dog Breed
Breed-Typical Behaviour in Dogs—Historical Remnants or Recent Constructs?
Genetic Characterization of Dog Personality Traits
Similar Recent Selection Criteria Associated with Different Behavioural Effects in Two Dog Breeds
Genome-wide Association Analysis Uncovers Variants for Reproductive Variation Across Dog Breeds and Links to Domestication
Genome Sequence, Comparative Analysis and Haplotype Structure of the Domestic Dog
Breed, Sex, and Litter Effects in 2-Month Old Puppies’ Behaviour in a Standardised Open-Field Test
Additional Resources to Support Dogs in Other Environments
SHELTER & RESCUE
Dogs living in shelter or rescue kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, including those caring for dogs in home-based foster systems or rescue networks, are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.
PET FAMILIES
Dogs living in homes as family pets face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, support the human-animal bond, keep pets in their homes, and improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.
Research & Teaching
Dogs living in research or teaching kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.
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