More Than a Label: Shelter Dog Genotyping Reveals Inaccuracy of Breed Assignments
Thursday, August 23, 2018 - 14:40
in Biology & Nature
Arizona State University scientists used genetic testing in over 900 shelter dogs to identify breed heritage in the largest study of its kind. The researchers found widespread genetic diversity: 125 breeds in the sample and an average of three breed matches per dog. The accuracy of shelter staff in identifying more than one breed in the dog's heritage based just on physical appearance was only 10%. How breed labels can impact shelter dogs is discussed.