Physical Traits
Canine body size is influenced by genetics, breed standards, nutrition, and overall health, varies widely among breeds and individuals due to the development of breeds for specific roles and functions.Learn More
Curly tails aid dogs in balance and stability, facilitate movement in working breeds like Basenjis and Akitas, provide warmth in colder climates, and convey emotions and intentions through their position and movement, such as indicating confidence or fear.Learn More
Dogs have floppy ears because neural crest cells, which differentiate into various body parts during development, are repressed in domesticated dogs, affecting their ears, skull, brain, and facial and chest fur.Learn More
Dog breeds vary significantly in head shape, from long-headed (dolichocephalic) breeds like Afghan Hounds and Greyhounds to broad, wide-skulled (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs.Learn More
Hairlessness is a genetic condition in dogs, particularly affecting the American Hairless Terrier, caused by mutations in the SGK3 or FOXI3 gene, leading to the absence of hair.Learn More
A dog's leg length correlates with its breed's functional role and is influenced by factors including diet, exercise, environment, and genetic predispositions promoting leg growth.Learn More
The gene MIPEP is part of the group of genes that can predict whether a dog has short or long hairLearn More
The T Locus determines the natural bobtail trait in dogs, leading to a shortened tail or complete absence of a tail.Learn More
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The ST Locus (ST) (Screw Tail) trait causes a dog's tail to be shortened and kinked, commonly seen in Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. Learn More
The SD Locus (SD) influences shedding levels in dogs through genetic variations in the MC5R and RSPO2 genes.Learn More
The T Locus determines the natural bobtail trait in dogs, leading to a shortened tail or complete absence of a tail.Learn More