The Dog Genome Project at the National Human Genome Research Institute analyzed DNA samples from over 200 dog breeds along with nearly 50,000 pet-owner surveys to pinpoint the genes that shape behavior.

As a result the team identified 10 major genetic lineages among hundreds of dog breeds, solely based on DNA data.

They were particularly interested in livestock-herding dogs, who display one of the most easily defined breed-typical behaviors, characterized by an instinctive herding drive coupled with unique motor patterns that move herds in complex ways. They were able to identify sheep-dog-associated gene EPHA5 which has also been associated with human attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety-like behaviors in other mammals.

The study and methodology allowed the team to capture the different histories of dog breeding across the world, in one approach, one experiment, and without prior assumptions.

Journal Reference:

Emily V. Dutrow, James A. Serpell, Elaine A. Ostrander. Domestic dog lineages reveal genetic drivers of behavioral diversification. Cell, 2022; 185 (25): 4737 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.11.003

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Cell Press. “Your dog’s behavior is a product of their genes.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 8 December 2022. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/12/221208114727.htm>.