Which percentage of dogs have short hair dominance over long hair? - briefly
The exact percentage of dogs with short hair dominance over long hair is not universally defined due to the genetic complexity and diversity among different breeds. However, it is generally estimated that around 60-70% of dog breeds exhibit a stronger tendency towards short hair coats.
Which percentage of dogs have short hair dominance over long hair? - in detail
In the realm of canine genetics, coat length is determined by specific genes that control hair growth. One of the primary genes influencing hair length in dogs is the FGF5 gene, located on chromosome 17. This gene encodes for fibroblast growth factor 5, which plays a crucial role in regulating hair follicle development and cycling.
The dominant allele at this locus (F) is associated with short-haired breeds, while the recessive allele (f) leads to long-haired coats. In dogs with genotype FF or Ff, the short-hair trait is expressed due to the presence of at least one dominant F allele. Conversely, dogs homozygous for the recessive allele (ff) exhibit long hair.
Empirical data and breeding studies indicate that the majority of dog populations carry the dominant short-haired allele. In many cases, the frequency of the F allele can be as high as 70% or more in some breeds. However, this percentage varies significantly across different breeds due to selective breeding practices aimed at maintaining specific coat types.
For instance, in breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and the Beagle, which are typically short-haired, the frequency of the F allele is extremely high, often approaching 100%. Conversely, in long-haired breeds like the Afghan Hound or the Old English Sheepdog, the f allele predominates.
Overall, while the exact percentage varies by breed, it is clear that a substantial proportion of dogs possess short hair dominance over long hair due to the prevalence of the dominant F allele in their genetic makeup. This genetic trait has been shaped and maintained through centuries of selective breeding aimed at producing desirable coat characteristics in various canine lineages.