Tuesday, December 7, 2021 (Health Day News)-The unique characteristics of certain dog breeds-the distinctive spots of the Dalmatian or the short legs of the Dachshund-are usually achieved through inbreeding.

But a new study confirms that most breeds are now highly inbred, which increases the risk of health problems in dogs.

"The importance of inbreeding to health is surprising," said study leader Danika Bannasch.

Her genetic analysis of 227 breeds found that the average inbreeding rate was 25%. This is equivalent to sharing the same genetic material with a complete sibling.

This level is much higher than the level of safety for wild animals or humans. For example, according to the research team, the high level of human inbreeding (3% to 6%) is associated with an increase in the incidence of complex diseases and other health conditions.

Bennersch, a veterinary geneticist at the University of California, Davis, said at the school: “Data from other species, coupled with a strong breed tendency towards complex diseases such as cancer and autoimmune diseases, highlights the high degree of inbreeding and Health relevance." Press release.

"Although previous studies have shown that small dogs live longer than large dogs, no one has reported morbidity or disease before. This study shows that if dogs are smaller and are not inbred, they are healthier than large dogs. Has a high degree of inbreeding," Bannasch points out.

Bannasch explained that the reason why some dog breeds are more inbreed than others is usually the combination of a small number of primitive populations, followed by the breeding of specific characteristics that are usually based on appearance rather than purpose.

Although she is not sure if there is a way to get rid of inbred breeds, there are ways to protect the genetic diversity and health of the breeds. This includes careful management, through breeder education and inbreeding level monitoring to avoid the loss of existing genetic diversity.

Bannersch emphasized that every effort needs to be made to maintain the genetic diversity of a few breeds with low levels of inbreeding.

The results of the study were published online on December 2 in the journal Canine Medicine and Genetics.

The American Kennel Club provides guidelines for responsible dog keeping.

Source: University of California, Davis, press release, December 2, 2021

© 2005-2019 WebMD LLC. all rights reserved.

WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.