"From Wolves to Dogs: Uncovering the Genetic Journey of Domestication"
Introduction
Brain Function and Behavior: Nineteen genomic regions linked to brain function were identified, with eight involved in nervous system development—these may explain the behavioural adaptability of domestic dogs compared to their wild ancestors.
Dietary Adaptations: The study also found signals of selection in ten genes associated with starch digestion and fat metabolism, suggesting that early dogs evolved to digest starch more efficiently than wolves. This adaptation was crucial as it allowed dogs to thrive on a diet different from the strictly carnivorous one of their wolf ancestors.
By analyzing 3.8 million genetic variants, scientists identified 36 genomic regions that likely played a role in dog domestication. This detailed genetic investigation focused particularly on genes related to brain function and metabolism, aiming to understand the behavioural and physiological transformations from wolves to dogs.
Read full study here@nature.com
Jan 1, 2023
Why it matters to you?
1. Understanding Domestication's Impact on Canine Behavior
The findings provide insight into how genetic changes may have facilitated the unique behavioral traits seen in domestic dogs, offering explanations for their social and cognitive differences from wolves.
2. Exploring Dietary Evolution
Highlighting the genetic basis for dietary changes underscores the adaptability of dogs to diverse environments and food sources, which was essential for their integration into human societies.
3. Implications for Modern Dog Care
Knowledge of these genetic adaptations can influence current pet care practices and nutrition strategies, helping pet parents and veterinarians tailor diets and care routines that align with the natural predispositions of different dog breeds.
Other Studies
"Clinical and Nutritional Evaluation of Vegan Diets in Dogs and Cats"
General Health:
Both dogs and cats appeared generally healthy; no significant health issues directly related to the vegan diet were observed.
Blood Test Results:
No substantial differences in blood values were noted for most nutrients in dogs. However, vegan cats showed significantly lower levels of folic acid compared to those on conventional diets.
The study identified some vegan pet foods that did not meet recommended dietary standards, highlighting potential risks of inadequate nutrient intake.
Nutritional Adequacies and Concerns:
While most homemade and commercial vegan diets seemed to fulfill basic nutritional needs for dogs, certain essential nutrients like methionine, cysteine, vitamin B12, and sodium were underrepresented in some cases.
Cats, due to their specific metabolic and dietary requirements, might be less suited to a vegan diet. Essential nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A must be supplemented to prevent deficiencies.
Jan 12, 2014
"Comprehensive Review of Commercial Plant-Based Diets for Dogs"
Nutritional Standards and Testing:
Plant-based dog diets are typically formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient recommendations, similar to meat-based diets, although actual feeding trials are rare in the industry.
The critique often directed at plant-based dog food regarding untested nutritional claims is also applicable to many meat-based diets sold commercially, which frequently rely solely on nutrient profile formulations without feeding trial verification.
Additional tests such as dietary nutrient analysis and digestibility can further substantiate the nutritional claims of these diets, though such information is seldom disclosed on product packaging or promotional materials.
Jan 12, 2018
"Exploring Vegan Diets for Pets: A Systematic Review"
The review found no conclusive evidence of adverse effects from feeding pets a vegan diet, and there were indications of some health benefits. However, the overall evidence was rated as low to very low in certainty, highlighting the complexity and variability in study designs and outcomes. This suggests that while vegan diets can be safe, the decision to switch should be approached with careful consideration of the animal’s nutritional needs.
Jan 12, 2023