To a man or woman who is starting out to breed a few dogs, this may all seem very complicated and unnecessary, but let me assure you that a knowledge of linkage groups and the laws of heredity has great practical value. If you will give it a little thought, you will see that an understanding of the crossing-over mechanism is tremendously important. To the inexperienced breeder, if it does nothing else, it should emphasize the necessity of an exhaustive study of the pedigrees and all obtainable facts concerning a proposed mating. To the experienced breeder, this knowledge will give a foundation on which to plan new experiments in mating. The point may even be reached where man can control the human race eugenically. When this day arrives, authorities can start thinking of closing the penitentiaries for lack of prospective customers!

  Eight now, however, the big problem before investigators in genetics is the question of what the gene actually is, and how it acts. Practically nothing is known about it with the exception that a single gene has been measured by means of X-rays, and has been found to be something like thirty-two billionths of an inch long. About 1932 Dr. Belling, of the Carnegie Institute, stated that he had been able to photograph the positions of the genes. His method was to immerse the chromosomes in some thick, viscid material.

  But the question of what the gene really is remains unsolved. Investigators are faced with the possibility that the gene may be essentially a chemical molecule, which raises the problem of the difference between organic and inorganic material. Whether the gene, which has such a tremendous influence on the reproduction of all living things, is an example of extremely complicated chemistry or whether the investigators will be forced to come to some new conception of its nature, is something still to be determined.

  As may be seen from this brief resume of the work done in genetics, it is not a subject which can be taught in the space of a few pages. It is a life study in itself, and I hope that those who are thinking of breeding dogs will feel the urge to pursue the subject further. My object in introducing a complicated science such as this will be better understood when we consider pedigrees and the importance of obtaining all available information before carrying out a proposed mating. If a good working knowledge of the laws of heredity can be grasped, it will give the foundation on which to build your knowledge of breeding dogs. Successful breeders are not just lucky. They understand these principles and apply them in the daily conduct of their kennels.

<< Previous    1...   4  5  [6]  7  8  ...12    Next >>