The Canine Diversity Project is an attempt to acquaint breeders of domesticated Canidae (dogs) with the dangers of inbreeding and the overuse of popular sires. Both lead to the indiscriminate loss of genetic diversity and increase the frequency of genetic problems in the population. These abuses have not been restricted to dogs, but have also occurred in horses, cattle and many other domestic animals, largely as a consequence of outdated beliefs dating back to the early days of genetics. Even their wild cousins have been the unfortunate victims of genetic malpractice by zoos. Fortunately, zoo biologists have recognized the dangers to these and many other species, and Species Survival Plans have been developed for many.

Though, as a species, Canis familiaris is not endangered, a number of breeds are in as much danger of extinction as some of their wild cousins. If different varieties of wolves are worthy of preservation, are not the different breeds of domestic dogs equally worthy?

Starting with wolves, and perhaps other related canids, man shaped the dog to his own ends. For several thousand years they have been our companions, helpers and guardians. A dog, treated with a little kindness, will be your friend for life. How do we reward them? By condemning many to a life of pain or an early death due to various inherited diseases. Do we not owe them more than this?

Why do we need genetic diversity in a population? read The Poodle and the Chocolate Cake

Tribute to Dr John B Armstrong

How You Can Help

Become informed on basic genetic principles and good breeding practice on the major genetic diseases in your breed on the attitude of your Breed Club or Association Support genetic research Spread the word about this site Ask the Question - Do you need a "Breed Survival Plan"? Please do not ask about the treatment of specific diseases, genetic or otherwise. Such advice should come from a qualified veterinarian. Information may be available from other web sites such as Vetinfo.

If you are interested in participating in on-going discussion of canine genetics (C. familiaris or other) and breeding (as related to genetic health), with a strong emphasis on diversity, send a message to The list Owner asking to be added to the group. Please include both first and last name, the email address you will using to post to the list, and a brief statement of your interest in canine genetics (e.g. breeder of Alabama Waterdogs). You do not have to be a professional geneticist or breeder to join, having a love of dogs and a concern for their future is sufficient.

 

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Index of articles and links

The Canidae

Selected Breeds of Canis familiaris

Other Canids

General
Endangered species
Reintroduction projects
Additional information on endangered species

Genetics and Diversity

Genetics for Breeders  

        Dr. John Armstrong

Basic Concepts
Breeding Schemes
Significant Relationships
Population Genetics and Breeding
The Nature of Genetic Disease
Eliminating Mutation: the impossible dream
Diversity and the Purebred Dog
Inbreeding and Diversity
Glossary of Genetic Terms

by Dr. Bruce M Cattanach

Genetics Can Be Fun (7 parts)

The Dalmatian Dilemma

        by Dr. Leos Kral

Importance of Complete Pedigrees
Penetrance and Expressivity
Phenotypic vs Genotypic Heterogeneity
Multiple Gene Traits

        by C.A. Sharp

The Price of Popularity: Popular sires and population genetics.

The Downside of Inbreeding: It’s Time For a New Approach.

        by Dr. Catherine Marley

Breeding - Dogs or Pedigrees?

Closed registries and loss of diversity

Other reading

Dealing with Genetic Disease

Pedigree Analysis

Genetic Research Strategies: The Example of Canine Epilepsy

Test mating

Day Blindness in Alaskan Malamutes
The Bourns Test Litters for Dayblindness in Malamutes
CEA & I (Collie eye anomaly)

DNA tests

List of DNA tests

Genetic Testing: A Guide for Breeders

Standard Poodle Cancer Survey

Other Health Issues

Immunity

The Immune System and Disease Resistance

Fertility

Endocrine Disruptors
Hormone Disruptors
Stress, Infertility and Herpes Infection

Longevity

Doberman Pinscher Club Longevity Program
The Diversity Project's Longevity Study  
Mixed breed survey

Health Registries

Akita Health Registry  

If others would like to put forward Breed Specific Registries then please send an Email to; admin@canine-genetics.com

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