STUDY OF THE GENETIC DIVERSITY OF THE KAZAKH TAZY DOG BREED USING WHOLE-GENOME SNP DATA

Abstract

The Kazakh Tazy is a unique breed of dog characterized by its special morphological features and behavior. In addition to its biological characteristics, the Tazy occupies a special place in the cultural and historical heritage of the Kazakh people and has been officially recognized as part of the national heritage. Historically, it played an important role in the nomadic lifestyle of life of the Kazakhs and was an indispensable companion in traditional hunting. Within the traditional Kazakh value system known as the “Seven Treasures”, the inclusion of the Tazy emphasizes its high socio-cultural status. Previous studies have examined the genetic relationships between the Kazakh Tazy and other sight hound breeds. In this study, analysis was extended to examine the genetic relationship of the Tazy with a wider range of hunting dog breeds. The dataset included whole-genome SNP genotyping results from 39 Kazakh Tazy dogs, 471 dogs representing 16 different hunting dog breeds, and 18 gray wolves (Canis lupus) that served as an outgroup. The results confirmed earlier findings indicating a close genetic relationship between the Kazakh Tazy and the eastern sighthounds, the Arabian Saluki and the Afghan Hound, while also confirming the breed’s genetic distinction from other breeds. In addition, phylogenetic analysis revealed a remarkable genetic relationship between the Tazy and the Basenji, suggesting an ancient origin of this lineage. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the phylogenetic history of hunting dog breeds and demonstrate once again the importance of the Tazy as a unique cultural and genetic heritage.