# The Crucial Role of Breeder and Dog Owners Associations in Safeguarding Genetic Heritage of Endangered Balearic Dog Breeds: Gender Preference and Registry Adscription

## TL;DR

This study explores how breeders and owners influence the preservation of genetic diversity in endangered Balearic dog breeds through registration patterns and gender preferences.

## Contribution

The study reveals how registration patterns and gender preferences affect the documentation and preservation of Balearic dog breeds' genetic heritage.

## Key findings

- More female dogs in auxiliary registries correlate with fewer foundational registrations.
- Breeders significantly influence initial registrations and overall breed numbers.
- Gender preferences in registrations shift from females to males over time.

## Abstract

This study unravels the intricate dance between indigenous dog breeds in the Balearic Isles and their human companions, focusing on breeders and owners. Using a tool called Canonical Correlation Analysis, the researchers explored various factors like breed registries and the number of breeders/owners, revealing interesting patterns. For example, when more female dogs were added to auxiliary registries, there was a drop in foundational registrations, indicating changes in how breeds are documented. A similar pattern emerged with definitive female registrations, hinting at a growing awareness of pedigrees over time. Beyond these records, the study shows that an increase in breeders significantly influences initial registrations, total definitive counts, and overall numbers, showcasing their pivotal role in the early stages of a breed. The study also touches on gender preferences in registrations, noting a historical preference for female entries during foundational stages that shifts towards males in definitive registrations. In essence, the research stresses the collaborative efforts of breeders, owners, and comprehensive registries in preserving the genetic diversity of Balearic dog breeds. The need for ongoing efforts to fill gaps in genealogical data is highlighted for a more accurate understanding of breed dynamics.

This study delves into the complex relationships between indigenous dog breeds in the Balearic Isles and their human counterparts, specifically breeders and owners. Using Canonical Correlation Analysis, the research examines variables such as breed registries and the number of breeders/owners, uncovering significant correlations within registries. For example, an increase in female auxiliary registrations corresponds to a decline in foundational registrations, indicating shifts in breed documentation dynamics. Similarly, a rise in definitive female registrations coincides with a decrease in foundational female registrations, suggesting increased pedigree awareness across generations. Beyond registries, the study explores the correlation between breeders/owners and various initial records, highlighting that a notable increase in breeders positively influences initial registrations, definitive totals, and overall counts, underscoring their crucial role in early breed stages. Gender preferences in registrations are noted, with a historical bias towards female entries during foundational stages gradually shifting in favor of males in definitive registrations. In conclusion, the research underscores the interconnected roles of breeders, owners, and comprehensive registries in preserving genetic diversity among Balearic dog breeds, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to address gaps in genealogical data for a more accurate understanding of breed dynamics.