Breeding Away From a Recessive Disease Without Wrecking Genetic Diversity
You don't have to cull every carrier to eliminate a recessive disease. Here is the math that lets you breed it out gradually while protecting your breed's gene pool.
The Herding Gene - Canine Genetics Decoded
Expert insights into canine genetics, from MDR1 mutations to coat color inheritance. Science-based information for breeders and dog owners.
Understanding the Genetics Behind Your Dog
Welcome to The Herding Gene, your trusted resource for science-based canine genetics information. Our mission is to bridge the gap between complex genetic research and practical knowledge that breeders and dog owners can use every day.
Why Genetics Matter
Understanding your dog’s genetic makeup goes far beyond curiosity. Genetic testing and knowledge can:
- Prevent serious health issues by identifying carrier status for hereditary conditions
- Help breeders make informed decisions to produce healthier puppies
- Explain behavioral traits and physical characteristics
- Guide veterinarians in medication choices, especially for breeds with drug sensitivities
Our Focus Areas
Drug Sensitivity Mutations The MDR1 gene mutation affects how certain breeds metabolize medications. Knowing your dog’s MDR1 status can literally save their life when it comes to common treatments like ivermectin.
Coat Color Genetics From the dilute gene to merle patterns, we explore how genetic combinations create the beautiful variety of coat colors and patterns in dogs.
Hereditary Health Conditions Many health issues in purebred dogs have genetic origins. We provide clear explanations of how these conditions are inherited and what testing options exist.
Breed-Specific Research Herding breeds carry unique genetic signatures that affect their health, behavior, and appearance. Our research focuses particularly on these intelligent working dogs.
Featured Articles
Explore our latest research and educational content to deepen your understanding of canine genetics. Whether you are a breeder selecting for health, a veterinarian advising clients, or a dog owner wanting to understand your pet better, you will find valuable information here. Our newest pieces cover polygenic risk scores in canine genetics and the increasingly important role of copy number variants in herding breeds.
Selected breeder resources
Additional breeder resources from our wider canine network.
- Spitz Allemand moyen breeder - A breed-focused French site to compare how genetic and health information is presented to owners.
Latest Articles
Coat Length and Furnishings Genetics in Herding Breeds: FGF5, RSPO2 and the Rough/Smooth Question
Three genes — FGF5, RSPO2 and KRT71 — explain rough vs smooth Collies and Border Collie coat variation, and let you predict coat type in a litter before the puppies are born.
Incomplete Penetrance and Variable Expressivity: Why DNA Tests Don't Always Predict Disease
Two dogs with identical at-risk DNA results can end up worlds apart. Here is why genotype is not destiny, and how to read a panel report honestly.
Goniodysgenesis and Primary Glaucoma in Herding Breeds: The Hidden Threat to Vision
A malformed drainage angle in the eye can trigger sudden, painful blindness — and a 'low-risk' DNA result is not enough to rule it out. Here's why screening still matters.
Imerslund-Gräsbeck Syndrome: Inherited B12 Malabsorption in Border Collies
A faulty CUBN gene stops young Border Collies absorbing vitamin B12 — but unlike most inherited diseases, this one is testable and fully treatable.
Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs): A Smarter Way to Select Against Polygenic Disease
Why a dog's own hip or elbow score is a weak predictor of what it will pass on — and how EBVs use the whole family to make better breeding decisions.
The Natural Bobtail Gene (TBXT) in Herding Breeds: Genetics, Lethality, and Breeding Ethics
The C189G mutation in TBXT gives herding dogs their natural bobtail — but it's semi-lethal. Here's the real genetics, the breeding rule it forces, and the welfare debate.
Expert Research You Can Trust
The Herding Gene is authored by Dr. Emily Watson, PhD Molecular Genetics, UC Davis. With 18 years of research experience and over 40 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Emily Watson brings academic rigor to accessible canine genetics education.
Learn More About Our Research