02228-MOU: Assessing the Genetic Diversity of North American Golden Retrievers
Grant Status: Closed
Abstract
"The Golden Retriever is a breed of extreme popularity and utility. However, the breed carries an increased risk for disease processes that are either believed or proven to have an inherited/genetic origin. These conditions are often discussed as being linked to a lack of genetic diversity. As the breed strives for type, the diversity may decrease in general, and genetic diseases may inadvertently increase in frequency. This important study will survey the genetic landscape in North American Golden Retrievers to assess the breed's genetic diversity in a sample size of at least 500 dogs. The dogs are from diverse geographic regions and functions, and results will be reported for the entire population as well as by geographic and functional subpopulation. This study will fill in much-needed data around internal relatedness, and develop a genetic test of internal relatedness that may serve as a breeding tool to preserve and maximize genetic diversity within the Golden Retriever breed moving forward in a concerted effort to improve canine health overall. Funding for the research is provided through the efforts and generosity of the Golden Retriever Foundation. The AKC Canine Health Foundation supports the funding of this effort and will oversee administration of funds and scientific progress reporting.
Publication(s)
Ontiveros, E. S., Hughes, S., Penedo, M. C. T., Grahn, R. A., & Stern, J. A. (2019). Genetic heterogeneity and diversity of North American golden retrievers using a low density STR marker panel. PLOS ONE, 14(2), e0212171. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0212171
Help Future Generations of Dogs
Participate in canine health research by providing samples or by enrolling in a clinical trial. Samples are needed from healthy dogs and dogs affected by specific diseases.
