A Tale of 2 Species: What Do Canine Chromosomes Reveal about Humans?
They say dogs look like their owners. Now scientists are uncovering the genes that give dogs--and humans--their traits
By Katie Moisse
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
With more than 400 genetically distinct breeds worldwide, the domestic dog is the most diverse land mammal. After 14,000 years of artificial selection for traits such as size, shape and color, the 40-chromosome canine genome holds the secrets to man's best friend's most defining features. And as scientists begin to understand what gives dogs their spots, they're learning a little something about humans, too.
View a slideshow of dogs, their genes and their human connections
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.
