Page 25 - Aussie Magazine - 2024 Issue 3
P. 25
as it results in offspring related individuals equivalent
who are predictably similar to uncles/aunts and nephews/
because of the fact that their nieces).
genetic similarity maintains
specific traits from a common LINEBREEDING
ancestor. is a form of inbreeding.
Linebreeding is where
However, the effects of breeders frequently choose
inbreeding accumulate within to mate parents who have a
closed populations (e.g., common ancestor, but who
within purebred breeds) and are not as closely related as in
negative consequences can close inbreeding (e.g., not first-
result from breeding parents degree and second-degree
who are too genetically relatives). The aim is generally
similar. Inbred animals are to improve or maintain specific
more likely to have genetic traits within the breed.
defects and inherited diseases,
which can be extremely
detrimental to their health
and welfare. Examples include
Polycystic Kidney Disease
in Persian cats (leading to
kidney failure), hypertrophic
cardiomyopathy in Maine Coon
cats and Mitral Valve Disease
in Cavalier King Charles
Spaniels (both diseases
leading to heart failure), and
Types Of Breeding spinal abnormalities in British
According Pedigree and French Bulldogs, Boston
Terriers and Pugs.
INBREEDING
is the mating of related In addition, close inbreeding
individuals who have one or has other negative effects on
more ancestors in common. the animals’ health (called
Inbreeding reduces the genetic inbreeding depression)
variation within that breed including fertility problems,
or population. Inbreeding reduced survival and fitness
has been a common practice of offspring, and weakened
in companion animals (and immune systems.
other domesticated species)
as it increases the likelihood Close inbreeding is the
that animals will share intentional mating of close
desired traits, such as their relatives. This includes mating
physical characteristics first-degree relatives (e.g.,
because they are genetically full siblings and between
similar [1, 2]. Inbreeding parents and offspring) and
has been the foundation second-degree relatives (e.g.,
for the development of grandparents and grand-
pedigree (purebred) breeds offspring, half-siblings, and
A Worldwide Magazine for the Aussie • Issue 3/2024 | 25
