Analysis of the Cytogenetic Status, Genome Instability, and Adaptive Potential of the Kazakh Tobet Dog

Abstract

In recent years, interest in indigenous dog breeds has increased. The Tobet is a unique breed of Kazakh livestock guardian dogs adapted to nomadic pastoralism that developed over thousands of years across Central Asia and Turkestan. Currently, the Tobet breed faces critical endangerment. Its conservation and sustainable breeding require thorough analysis of hereditary characteristics, genome stability, and adaptive potential. In this study, 43 Tobet dogs were examined for karyotype, genomic instability, and adaptive potential through chromosomal aberration analysis. Comparative analysis included outbred dogs (n = 15) and Central Asian Shepherd Dogs (n = 15). Novel chromosomal features and heteromorphisms were identified in Tobet karyotypes that were absent in comparison groups and unreported in the literature. Tobets demonstrated significantly greater genomic instability compared to outbred dogs. The elevated genome instability, Robertsonian translocations, and sex chromosome leukocyte chimerism observed in some individuals raise concerns regarding their suitability for breeding programs. Data indicate enhanced adaptive potential and lower genome sensitivity to extreme temperatures in Tobets compared to outbred dogs, consistent with their evolutionary history in harsh continental climates. Early-stage cytogenetic analysis enables rapid assessment of breeding value and health status, emphasizing the importance of continuous genetic monitoring for effective conservation and selection strategies. These findings provide a foundation for evidence-based breed conservation programs and inform breeding decisions to maintain genetic diversity while minimizing deleterious chromosomal abnormalities.