Is the future of dog health in a DNA test?
The new study found that a duplication in a stretch of DNA on the dog chromosome 18 was associated with the husky's icy stare. This stretch of DNA is close to a gene called ALX4, involved with eye development in humans. This is a good indication the region is involved in the same function for dogs. The study was led by American company Embark, which makes DNA tests for dogs. These tests aim to uncover potentially preventable diseases in our furry friends. They're also used to confirm the breed or breed mix of your dog or just about any other trait of the animal.