Euro Puppy BLOG

Have you ever thought that dogs have a lot in common with humans? Well, if you answered yes to that question, you may not be too far off. We may be more like dogs than we think! Why are some dogs great at chasing balls while others are predisposed to lying on your lap? The answer to dog differences is hidden in specific sequences of DNA.

Molecular biologists have now completely and successfully sequenced the first dog genome. A genome is the complete blueprint of an organism’s DNA molecule sequence. By having a complete map of dog genes we are able to explain what gives dogs their unique set of traits, behaviors, and diseases, and strangely enough it may also help identify human diseases as well! How, you ask?? Well, by understanding how genetics play a role in canine diseases, it could help us humans to devise new treatments for diseases shared by humans. Diseases shared by dogs and humans include Cancer, Diabetes and Epilepsy.

A standard poodle, named Shadow, was the first dog to have its genes mapped, but it was only about 80-percent complete. For the first time, molecular biologists have now completely mapped out the genes of a Boxer. "The Boxer genome will help us find the genes responsible for diseases and traits in dogs, and also understand human Cancer, Epilepsy and Diabetes as well. In dogs, only one gene mutation can cause a disease, and that same mutated gene causes an identical disease in humans.” says Ewen Kirkness, a molecular biologist at The Institute for Genomic Research in Rockville, Md.

Soon, top quality breeders may also be able to check the purity of pedigrees, while limiting the entry of mutations into future generations. Having a genetic map may also mean owners of pure-bred dogs and mutts may soon be able to document which breeds their dogs come from by simply sending a cheek swab or blood sample to a genetics lab!