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Breeds

From wolves to Chihuahuas: the science behind dog size

Humans have bred increasingly smaller dogs for utility (pest hunting), companionship, and ancient legal restrictions.

This miniature size is due to selective breeding and variants in genes such as IGF1 which regulate growth.

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Breeds

From wolves to Chihuahuas: the science behind dog size

The relationship between humans and dogs is one of the greatest examples of symbiosis between two different species. It is a mutually beneficial relationship, taken to the extreme, to the point that humans have bred dogs to enhance the traits that interested them. A greater sense of smell in tracking dogs such as the Bloodhound, […]

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Breeds Curiosities

Coat Genetics in Dogs: Why Do Some Breeds Have Long Hair and Others Are Hairless?

Different dog breeds present an immense variety of coats. From very long hair to being hairless, it all depends on their genetics.

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Breeds Health

How long does a Sphynx cat live?

Sphynx cats live on average fewer years than other cats. They require special care to maintain their health at times, not only due to the lack of fur.

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Breeds

The 6 Most Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

Pet allergy is one of the most common, due to their proteins, and not all breeds produce it in the same way.

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Breeds

The (Almost) Impossible Mission of Discovering the Breeds of a Mixed-Breed Dog

Knowing the breed of a mixed breed dog from its traits and behavior is an almost impossible task. Even modern genetics faces a challenge in this field.

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Breeds

Understanding the DNA of Breeds: Pedigree

A pedigree is an official document that records an animal’s genealogy. It certifies the lineage and purity of an animal and demonstrates its breed. It requires knowledge of the animal’s past or a genetic test to verify its genealogy.

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Breeds

How to Identify Your Dog’s Breed

A dog breed is a group of dogs that come from common ancestors and have been selectively bred. They have very similar characteristics in behavior and appearance, and a closed and shared genetic heritage.