Using Estimated Breeding Values to Reduce the Incidence of Genetic Diseases in Dogs

Abstract

Estimated breeding values describe the relative genetic value of each member in a breeding population. They can also be used as a basis for objectively choosing which animals are the best candidates to select for breeding to produce the next generation of offspring. Livestock and plant breeders have used estimated breeding value techniques for decades to obtain genetic improvement in their breeding lines, but dog breeders have generally not embraced these techniques. This paper introduces techniques for computing estimated breeding values, using a familiar example from radiographic evaluation of elbow quality. A simple example is worked through to completion, and results from this example are used to illustrate how estimated breeding values can be used as the basis for making selection decisions that will genetically improve a population over several generations of selection. The techniques described herein can also adjust for or take into account the effects of non-genetic factors, such as age or sex, that often contribute to total variation observed in a population. Finally, issues related to computing estimated breeding values on a regular basis are discussed along with some comments about educating dog breeders about how to use them, and how to make them routinely available.