Researchers in Hokkaido have developed a way to test slight differences in the DNA of young dogs to screen their aptitude to become guides for blind people.
“The potential to be trained into guide dogs depends largely on genetic factors, although postnatal environments do play a role,” said Hiroshi Suzuki, a professor of domestic animal science at the Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine. “Efficient breeding of guide dogs would help to meet the demands of blind people.”
The requirements of a guide dog are that it excels in concentration, has a robust memory and a temperate character that does not allow it to become distracted. Retrievers are typically used.
Read the full, original story: Finding the right guide dogs all down to genetics
