RCT QUARTLY
OUTCROSS
LINE BREEDING
IN BREEDING
CONTINUED..........
In fact, close breeding within some lines is often much safer than outcrossing. If the lines being In-Bred are relatively free of undesired traits, then this method of breeding keeps them that way. Whenever an outcross mating is done, potentially many undesirable recessive traits can be unknowingly introduced to the line, and will subsequently surface in this or future generations when the like genes combine. It has been said that 1 in 17 human births are with defect and this is in the most outcrossed population possible! Because the human population is so outbred, the recessive undesired traits have become randomly and universally distributed!
The benefits and indeed the downside of In-Breeding is that there is a less chance of introducing something new. It is such a double edged sword as if you are seeking to introduce a quality, then it is unlikely to happen in an In-Breeding if the trait is not a feature of the line. Outcrossing IS necessary not only to introduce new, desired qualities, but also for vitality. Continued In-Breeding over many generations can result in loss of size and vitality. Outcrossing results in "hybrid vigour", but also, somewhat of a pot-pourri in type.
There are advantages and disadvantages of both methods of breeding and times when it is approriate to use one method and not another. Obviously, knowledge of the lines you are breeding is essential. This is one of the advantages of buying a puppy from an experienced and knowledgable breeder. This breeder can help guide you in what to expect and in making informed breeding decisions.
Well I hope the above has given some food for thought. It is worth noting that the discussion on genetics and recessive traits is much simplified. Many qualities are inherited in a much more complex fashion than simple Mendelian genetics.
LOUISE RUSSELL
UBERSEIN ROTTWEILERS