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Genetic Analysis Of Hunting Traits In Norwegian Elkhounds
Genetic analyses of hunting traits in Norwegian Elkhounds reveal heritabilities of 3-12 %. These low heritabilities highlight the need of introducing breeding values in the selection for improved hunting skills in this breed. The effects of owner on the performance of the dogs are high. Analyses of the pedigree resulted in an average level of inbreeding of 3.7 % for dogs registered in 2012, indicating a healthy breed.
These analyses are part of a larger project which aims at establishing a sustainable breeding program for the Norwegian Elkhound breed. This project will develop systems to estimate breeding values, tools for the control of inbreeding as well as systems for use and storage of biological materials. Methods and structure from Norwegian breeding programs for production animals will be adapted to dogs for establishment of permanent systems for sustainable dog breeding.
Keywords:
Dog
Heritability
Hunting
