A Breeder Selection Scheme Designed to Genetically Improve Guide Dog Mobility

Abstract

In six generations of selection, The Seeing Eye has successfully reduced the incidence of canine hip dysplasia from 47% to 8% among German Shepherds and from 31% to 6% in Labrador Retrievers. While genetically improving hip quality in these two breeds, dogs were simultaneously selected for improved ability to be trained as guides. Over 21 years, The Seeing Eye has successfully pursued both goals, thus proving that it is possible to breed healthy dogs that also have innate ability to work as dog guides.