Genetic selection of athletic success in sport-hunting dogs.

Modern dogs are distinguished among domesticated species by the vast breadth of phenotypic variation produced by strong and consistent human-driven selective pressure. The resulting breeds reflect the development of closed populations with well-defined physical and behavioral attributes. The sport-hunting dog group has long been employed in assistance to hunters, reflecting strong behavioral pressures to locate and pursue quarry over great distances and variable terrain. Comparison of whole-genome sequence data between sport-hunting and terrier breeds, groups at the ends of a continuum in both form and function, reveals that genes underlying cardiovascular, muscular, and neuronal functions are under strong selection in sport-hunting breeds, including , , , , , and We also identified an allele of that was significantly associated with increased racing speed in Whippets, accounting for 11.6% of the total variance in racing performance. Finally, we observed a significant association of with breed-specific accomplishments in competitive obstacle course events. These results provide strong evidence that sport-hunting breeds have been adapted to their occupations by improved endurance, cardiac function, blood flow, and cognitive performance, demonstrating how strong behavioral selection alters physiology to create breeds with distinct capabilities.