Describe the use of genetics in selective breeding.

Description should include

• the impact of chromosomal abnormalities on animal health
• how a pedigree chart identifies potential recessive allele carriers
• the importance of keeping breeding records (expected progeny differences [EPDs] and pedigree charts)
• the benefits of genome research for breeding programs. 

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why would one avoid breeding an animal that phenotypically demonstrates a disease condition?
• Why do the offspring of an individual animal demonstrating an extraordinary characteristic, sometimes fail to meet the expectations of the breeder?
• What are some important genetic traits of canines and the breeds in which they are commonly found?