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Mimi Padmabandu
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Patterns of Inbreeding and Overlap with Recessive Disease Genotypes in Dogs
In 2019, Embark scientists Adam Boyko, PhD and Aaron Sams, PhD published a study in the scientific journal G3 Genes|Genomes|Genetics investigating the genetic effects of inbreeding in domestic dogs. They found that runs of homozygosity (especially longer ones) are associated with higher levels of known recessive disease alleles. Genetic hallmarks of inbreeding “Inbreeding is the...
Embark vs Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Tests
When comparing dog DNA tests, we know the choice can be overwhelming. Here, we explore some of the differences between Embark vs Wisdom Panel dog DNA tests, and explain why Embark is the best choice for your dog. Embark vs Wisdom Panel: Which one is better? Comparing Embark vs Wisdom Panel dog DNA tests means...
How Dog DNA Testing Helps Willie Nelson Prevent Kidney Stones
When Julana and her husband adopted Willie Nelson, they suspected he was 100% German Shepherd Dog, due to his black and tan coat pattern. But as he got older, they noticed that his size was smaller than they expected for a German Shepherd. They decided to use an Embark dog DNA test to find out...
Top 10 Most Common Breeds in Embark-Tested Dogs
Can you guess the top 10 most common breeds in mixed-breed dogs? If you’ve tested your dog with Embark, you may know that breed ancestry doesn’t always dictate appearance, leading to some surprises. We often receive questions from customers about the breeds in their dog’s genetic ancestry—especially the unexpected ones. We analyzed genetic data from...
Complex Disease and Phenotype Mapping in Dogs
Dogs aren’t only humankind’s best friend; they’re also a valuable model species for medical genetics research. Led by Adam Boyko, PhD, Chief Science Officer at Embark, a team of researchers from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, China Agricultural University, and La Sierra University conducted a genetic study of over 4,200 dogs....
Inbreeding Depression and Reduced Fecundity in Golden Retrievers
Known for their sunny coat and disposition, Golden Retrievers are widely recognized as one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are also overrepresented for certain diseases, with more documented mortalities due to cancer than nearly any other breed (Kent et al. 2018; Dobson 2013). The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study by...
10 Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian About Senior Dog Care
We know it’s never easy to think about your dog getting older. You might have recently learned that your dog is older than you thought. Perhaps you adopted a senior dog, and you’re wondering what type of senior dog care is appropriate for them. Whatever the case may be, having an accurate idea of your dog’s age...
Dogs May Have Originated in Central Asia
Though it is well accepted that dogs were the first domesticated animals, the question of where dogs came from is still a heated debate among scientists. Over the past decade, various studies pointed to Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia as the likely origin for dogs, depending on what samples the researchers had and...
The Science Behind the Embark Dog Age Test
The Embark Age Test uses a dog’s DNA to estimate their calendar age. Specifically, it uses a type of epigenetic marker called DNA methylation. There are several physical clues that veterinarians use to estimate dog age, including body shape and lens clarity. Teeth can also indicate a dog’s age, although not all dogs follow the...
Alaskan Sled Dogs: Genetics of Canine Athletes
When we think of Alaskan sled dogs, breeds like the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, or even the Samoyed usually come to mind. These are the types of dogs popularized by movies like Snow Dogs, White Fang, Balto, and Togo. But according to Dr. Heather Huson, many other types of dogs can be modern sled dogs,...
Humans and Dogs Share More Than Just DNA
Humans and dogs have shared a lot of history. Our relationship with dogs started before the agricultural revolution, and it continues well into today. For many of us, dogs are not just pets; they are family members. The science behind why we love our dogs is extensive. Researchers are constantly uncovering new findings that help...
How to Care for Your Dog at Every Life Stage
There are several ways veterinarians estimate dog age and puppy age. Knowing a dog’s life stage can help inform what kind of lifestyle and preventive care plan are right for them. As dogs age, their social, behavioral, and health needs change. Read on to learn more about the different dog life stages and find tips...