The Genetics Behind Shedding in Doodles

Curious about what your future Doodle’s coat will be like? You’re not alone! Many families are drawn to Doodles for their lovable personalities and coats that promise minimal shedding. But did you know that not all Doodles have the same shedding or coat characteristics? At Stokeshire, we’re here to help you understand how genetics play a role in coat type, shedding, and other traits, so you can make the best choice for your family before bringing home your new puppy. Let’s dive into what you can expect from our litters and how we use careful breeding to create wonderful companions with the qualities you’re looking for.

Introduction to Doodle Breeds

Doodles like Australian Mountain Doodles, Golden Mountain Doodles, Goldendoodles, and Bernedoodles have quickly gained popularity, and it’s easy to see why! These breeds are loved for their affectionate personalities, hypoallergenic potential, and beautiful coats. However, what does it really mean for a Doodle to be "low-shedding"? At Stokeshire, we aim to help you understand the genetics behind coat types and shedding levels, so you’ll know what to expect when welcoming one of these wonderful companions into your life.

Understanding Shedding

Shedding is a natural process where dogs lose old or damaged hair. This process varies greatly across different breeds and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Some dogs shed heavily during specific seasons, while others may shed consistently throughout the year. Understanding this can help you manage your Doodle's coat more effectively.

The Genetics of Doodles

The genetic makeup of Doodles plays a crucial role in their coat types and shedding patterns. Shedding in dogs is primarily controlled by two genes, MC5R and RSPO2.

• MC5R Gene impacts the shedding process. A "TT" result at this gene locus suggests light shedding, while "CC" or "CT" indicates heavier shedding.

• RSPO2 Gene influences the coat texture, where:

The KRT71 gene (Keratin 71) plays a significant role in determining coat texture in dogs, particularly affecting traits like curliness and waviness. Here's what the genetic results for KRT71 can mean for Doodles:

1. KRT71 Gene Results:

   • CC (Straight Coat): Dogs with two copies of the "C" allele usually have straight coats with little to no curl.

   • CT (Wavy Coat): Dogs with one "C" and one "T" allele tend to have a wavy or slightly curly coat, often considered the ideal "Doodle look" with moderate shedding potential.

   • TT (Curly Coat): Dogs with two copies of the "T" allele generally have a tightly curled coat, similar to that of a Poodle, which typically sheds less and is often preferred for families with allergy concerns.

Understanding your puppy's KRT71 genetic result can give you a better idea of their expected coat type and maintenance needs.

The MC5R gene, also known as the Melanocortin 5 Receptor gene, plays an essential role in determining shedding levels in dogs. Here’s how it works and why it's important in Doodle and other hypoallergenic breed genetics:

Key Information about MC5R and Shedding

• Function: The MC5R gene affects the production of oils by the sebaceous glands in a dog’s skin, which influences hair shedding. Dogs with certain variations in this gene tend to shed less, while others with the "normal" version may shed more.

• Alleles:

  • SD (Low-Shedding Variant): This allele is associated with lower shedding. Dogs with one or two copies of the SD variant are more likely to have reduced shedding.

  • N (Normal Shedding): The "N" allele is associated with normal shedding levels, often found in breeds that are not considered low-shedding.

Inheritance and Shedding Outcomes

The inheritance pattern for the MC5R gene is complex, meaning it doesn’t follow straightforward dominant or recessive rules and may be influenced by other genetic factors.

• SD/SD (Homozygous for Low Shedding): Dogs with two copies of the low-shedding SD allele are predicted to have minimal shedding. When paired with other low-shedding genes, such as those for "furnishings," these dogs typically have the least shedding.

• SD/N (Heterozygous): Dogs with one SD allele and one N allele often shed less than average, but they may not be as low-shedding as SD/SD dogs. These dogs usually fall between minimal and low shedding.

• N/N (Homozygous for Normal Shedding): Dogs with two copies of the normal-shedding N allele tend to have average or higher shedding levels, as the genetic factors for low shedding are absent.

Why MC5R Testing Is Useful

MC5R testing is valuable for breeders and families looking for dogs with minimal shedding. Combined with other genetic markers, like those affecting furnishings (such as the RSPO2 gene), MC5R results can provide a more accurate prediction of a dog’s coat type and shedding tendencies.

Different companies use varying notations and interpretations when presenting results for the MC5R gene related to shedding in dogs. This can make it confusing for pet owners and breeders when comparing genetic testing services, as different labeling methods may seem to reflect different findings, though they may actually be based on similar genetic principles. Here’s how some companies label the MC5R shedding gene results compared to EmbarkVet:

Common Notations Used by Genetic Testing Companies

1. SD/N Notation:

   • Many genetic testing companies label the alleles of the MC5R gene as SD (low-shedding variant) and N (normal shedding).

   • SD/SD: Dogs with two copies of the SD allele are predicted to be low shedders, especially if paired with furnishings (indicated by the RSPO2 gene).

   • SD/N: Dogs with one low-shedding variant and one normal allele tend to shed less than average but may still have some shedding.

   • N/N: Dogs with two copies of the normal allele are predicted to shed at average or higher levels, depending on the breed.

2. EmbarkVet Notation (C/T):

   • EmbarkVet uses C and T to describe the shedding variants for the MC5R gene:

     • C (Ancestral Shedding Allele): The C allele is linked with higher shedding and is commonly found in breeds that shed seasonally or more heavily, such as Labradors and German Shepherds.

     • T (Low-Shedding Allele): The T allele is associated with lighter shedding and is more common in breeds like Boxers, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas.

   • CT Result: Dogs with one copy of each allele (C and T) may have moderate shedding, often lighter than the C/C (high shedding) genotype but more than T/T.

   • TT Result: Dogs with two T alleles typically shed less and are generally lighter shedders.

Role of Furnishings (RSPO2)

EmbarkVet and many other companies also note that the RSPO2 gene, which controls “furnishings” (the presence of facial hair and wiry coats), can influence shedding. Dogs with furnishings, regardless of their MC5R genotype, tend to shed less due to the texture and growth pattern of the wiry or curly coat.

Why These Differences Matter

These varied notations can cause some confusion but are based on similar genetic findings. The C/T notation by EmbarkVet and the SD/N notation used by others both reflect the shedding potential of the dog. However, knowing these notations allows breeders and owners to make informed comparisons across testing platforms and better understand how to interpret genetic shedding results based on each company's terminology.

The RSPO2 gene, also known as the “furnishing” gene, is crucial in determining whether a dog has furnishings—facial hair such as a mustache, beard, and eyebrows. This gene significantly impacts shedding and coat texture, which is why it’s an important factor for breeders and owners of low-shedding breeds like Doodles.

How Furnishings Affect Shedding and Coat Appearance

1. Furnishings (F Allele):

   • Dogs with one or two copies of the F allele (FF or F/I) will have furnishings, which creates the classic "Doodle look" with facial hair and often a wiry or curly coat.

   • Furnished coats are generally associated with lower shedding, as the texture and structure of the coat help to trap shedding hair, making it less likely to end up around the home. This trait is particularly desirable in hypoallergenic or low-shedding breeds.

2. Improper Coat (I Allele):

   • Dogs with two I alleles (I/I) lack furnishings. This is referred to as an “improper coat” in breeds where furnishings are expected, such as Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, and other Doodles.

   • An improper coat typically sheds more because it lacks the wiry, dense structure that traps loose hair. These coats are often closer in texture to straight-haired, shedding breeds.

3. Interaction with MC5R (Shedding Gene)

   • The RSPO2 gene and the MC5R gene (related to shedding) work together to influence overall coat characteristics.

   • Dogs with low-shedding MC5R genotypes (such as SD/SD or TT) and furnishings (F allele) are likely to have a very low-shedding coat. These coats are typically curly or wavy, which reduces shedding further.

   • However, even dogs with MC5R alleles associated with higher shedding (like SD/N or CT) can still shed minimally if they carry the F allele, as the presence of furnishings reduces the amount of loose hair that falls out.

4. Genetic Testing for RSPO2

   • Genetic testing for RSPO2 can help predict coat type, shedding, and grooming needs. For example, a dog with an FF genotype will almost certainly have the desirable furnished coat and shed less, while an I/I result would indicate an improper coat, likely with increased shedding and less curl.

Genetic Impact

For Doodle and other designer breed owners seeking hypoallergenic pets, the RSPO2 furnishings gene is a key factor to look for, as it reduces shedding and contributes to the characteristic Doodle look. When paired with other low-shedding genetics like those in the MC5R gene, furnishings can produce a low-maintenance, allergy-friendly coat that appeals to families looking for minimal shedding.

Ideal Lowest Shedding Possible Genetic Outcome

If you’re looking for a dog with the most low-shedding coat possible, the ideal genetic combination will focus on the MC5R (shedding) and RSPO2 (furnishings) genes. Here’s the optimal genetic profile:

Ideal Low-Shedding Genetic Combination

1. MC5R Gene (Shedding):

   • TT or SD/SD: Both of these genotypes are associated with minimal shedding.

     • TT (Embark notation): Two copies of the "T" allele, often seen in low-shedding breeds.

     • SD/SD (Alternative notation): Two copies of the "low-shedding" SD allele, linked to minimal shedding.

2. RSPO2 Gene (Furnishings):

   • FF: Two copies of the "F" (furnishings) allele create the furnished coat associated with the least shedding. Dogs with furnishings (FF) typically have a curly or wavy coat, which captures loose hair and dander, reducing shedding further.

Summary of the Optimal Genotype

• MC5R: TT or SD/SD

• RSPO2: FF

This combination of TT/FF or SD/SD and FF would yield the lowest possible shedding, especially in breeds known for “hypoallergenic coats”, like Doodles. The curly or wavy furnished coat (FF) traps shedding hair, while the shedding gene (TT or SD/SD) minimizes how much hair is naturally shed.

Breeders and owners often prioritize this combination to maximize coat manageability, reduce dander, and make the dog “hypoallergenic”.

Factors Affecting Shedding

Several factors can influence your Doodle's shedding pattern, including:

• Environment: Seasonal changes and indoor air quality can impact shedding.

• Diet and Health: Poor nutrition or health issues can lead to increased shedding.

• Stress and Anxiety: Stressful situations can cause temporary increases in shedding.

Coat Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your Doodle's coat requires regular grooming to minimize shedding and keep your pet comfortable. Here are some practical tips:

• Regular Brushing: Use a slicker brush to remove loose hairs and prevent matting.

• Bathing Routine: Bathe your Doodle every 4-6 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo to keep the coat clean and healthy.

• Professional Grooming: Schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer to manage the length and health of the coat.

Conclusion

Understanding the genetics and factors influencing shedding can help you better manage your Doodle's unique coat. By following practical grooming tips and recognizing the impact of genetics, you can ensure your furry friend remains comfortable and stylish. Consider scheduling a consultation with a pet geneticist to explore your Doodle's specific genetic makeup and tailor your care routine accordingly.

References:

“Shedding+ | Veterinary Genetics Laboratory.” Ucdavis.edu, 2016, vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/shedding. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

“Paw Print Genetics - SD Locus (Shedding).” Pawprintgenetics.com, 2016, www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/tests/details/194/. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

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