IW Foundation Health Library:
Genetics
Genetics is of interest not only to breeders but to other IW owners, as research is ongoing to find genes responsible for various medical conditions. Right now we test breeding dogs for inherited conditions to see who's affected, but if we had tests at the genetic level we would be better able to avoid doubling-up on negative traits like a susceptibility to certain diseases.
The Irish Wolfhound gene pool is rather shallow, due in part to its reconsitution in the 1800s and in part to various genetic bottlenecks when breeding was difficult (during WWII, for example). Genetic diversity is one of the many factors breeders take into account when planning litters.
And genetics can be kind of fun, trying to understand coat colors and patterns and other observable traits.
Further Reading
- Shallow Gene Pool
- Talking Glossary of Genetic Terms
- Animal Genetics
- Canine Longevity and Dog Breeding
- Basic Population Genetics for Dog Breeders
- Pedigree Analysis, Genetic Diversity, and Genetic Disease Control
- Coat Color
- Coat Color Genetics
- Canine DNA Testing Service
- Early Canid Domestication: The Farm-Fox Experiment (relationship between behavioral genetics and development)
- NYTimes Article: Scientists Find a Shared Gene in Dogs With Compulsive Behavior
- The Canine Diversity Project
Links provided here provide Irish Wolfhound-specific, sighthound, and/or general canine information relevant to Irish Wolfhounds.
Disclaimer: The Irish Wolfhound Foundation provides the information on this website for the education of its readers. No information on this website should be used for veterinary medical purposes, diagnostically, therapeutically, or otherwise. Consult a veterinarian before attempting to medically treat your dog or changing your dog's medical treatment.
Note: Links to content outside iwfoundation.org may become inactive over time.