The Importance of Mendelian Inheritance and Sex Ratios in Dog Breeding

To understand why maintaining a balanced ratio of males to females in a breeding population is desirable, in this entry we’ll explore Mendelian inheritance and its implications for genetic diversity. Mendelian inheritance refers to the principles of genetics discovered by Gregor Mendel. Mendel’s laws of inheritance explain how traits are passed from parents to offspring. … Read more

Practical Assortative Mating

A dog breed, or any animal breed, requires a delicate balance between genetic diversity and consistency of traits. Both of these aspects are essential for the breed’s long-term survival and health, as well as for maintaining the breed’s defining characteristics. Variability for Health: Variability in a breed’s gene pool is essential for maintaining the breed’s … Read more

Balancing Breed Identity and Genetic Health

The fascinating world of canine breeds is as diverse as it is complex. Each breed, distinct in its ancestry, purpose, and typology, carries a unique identity woven together by these three threads. However, the challenges of maintaining breed purity and breed-specific traits often push these breeds into a narrow genetic corner, leading to potential … Read more

Generation Time in English Shepherd Breeding Programs

The average generation time, also known as the mean interval between generations, can be calculated by breeders to understand and manage the genetic diversity of their breeding program. Here’s a general way to calculate it: Create a List of Breeding Dogs: First, list all the dogs that have been used for breeding in your program … Read more

Unraveling the Truth: Understanding Inaccuracies in Dog Pedigree Databases

For many dog enthusiasts, a pedigree is a crucial piece of information that outlines their beloved pets’ lineage, genetic background, and accomplishments. However, pedigree databases are not immune to inaccuracies and misinformation, sometimes stemming from dishonest or misinformed breeders. As a responsible dog owner or potential buyer, it is prudent to understand the reasons … Read more

Unintended Consequences: Disadvantages of Selective Breeding in Farm Dogs

This article examines some of the less successful evolutionary strategies in farm dogs, primarily resulting from human-driven selective breeding for specific traits. While these traits may have initially provided an advantage in agricultural settings, they have also led to unintended consequences or disadvantages for the dogs. The article explores issues related to overemphasis on … Read more