Expert insights into canine genetics, from MDR1 mutations to coat color inheritance. Science-based information for breeders and dog owners.
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.
Understanding your dog’s genetic makeup goes far beyond curiosity. Genetic testing and knowledge can:
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.
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.
Copy number variants are large-scale genetic duplications and deletions that contribute substantially to canine disease and trait variation. Here is what they are, how they are detected, and where they matter in herding breed populations.
Most canine genetic diseases are not single-gene problems. Polygenic risk scoring is changing how breeders and veterinarians approach inherited disease — here is what it is, what it is not, and what to ask your testing provider.
Understanding COI calculations, their impact on health and genetic diversity in herding breeds, and how modern genomics helps breeders make better pairing decisions
Exploring the genetic basis of herding behavior, from the 'eye' of Border Collies to the loose-eyed style of Australian Shepherds, and what genomics reveals about canine behavioral traits
A thorough look at the multiple genetic forms of progressive retinal atrophy affecting herding dogs, how DNA testing identifies carriers, and what breeders can do to eliminate these blinding diseases
How the SINE insertion that creates merle coat patterns also affects eye development and hearing, why double merle breeding causes serious health problems, and what genomics reveals about merle variants
Understanding the three types of von Willebrand disease in dogs, their genetic basis, which herding breeds are affected, and how DNA testing has changed the landscape for breeders
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.
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