Inbreeding in Domesticated Dogs
Chapter 11 of Dr. Tatiana's book begins with the rather taboo idea of inbreeding. Instead of immediately condemning the idea, Dr. Tatiana claims that it is not always a surefire way of a species becoming incapable of carrying on. For many creatures, it is not harmful to subsequent generations. Pinworms and mites are examples of species that can safely interbreed. We learn that inbreeding can be costly when harmful recessive genes are present in family members who then reproduce. The likelihood of two close family members carrying the same harmful genes is much higher than it is between two completely unrelated strangers. Sick offspring do not reproduce the way that healthy offspring can. From this, we know that it is usually not ideal for mammals to mate if they do not have to mate. 'Body size, inbreeding, and lifespan in domestic dogs' further adds information of how inbreeding can negatively affect populations where inbreeding does not aid in reproductive success. Domes