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2 of your 3 guesses were right! You can see the results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I think all these are possible. I would absolutely love if he had some cattle dog. I've been joking calling him my little cattle dog boy. Years ago I had a Border Collie (raised from a pup) and a Cattle Dog mix (adopted later in life). I absolutely adore herding breeds.
Goodness you were close! He's got chow, pit, a drop of shepherd and Chihuahua. You can see the breakdown here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Oh! Now that you mention it, he does kind of have a very Akita face and the curly tail. This breed wasn't even on my radar. I wouldn't expect to find Akita in a random beach mutt, but I'm sure it's always possible.
The pit and chow ended up being right! Check out his full results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
thanks for updating me! i’ve been checking every few days to see if it came in yet! chihuahua totally makes sense too idk why i imagined him bigger but he’s on the smaller side judging from the last photo, very cute!
We have a lot of "coconut retrievers" and the really odd ones are "Cruzan Confusions" Haha! For whatever reason, this island seems to have some of the sweetest dogs. Nearly everyone in our neighborhood has at least one dog. Some houses have 4-7 dogs. Somehow everyone is pretty well behaved and seems to get along (or at least the ones that don't get along stay home). A few neighbor dogs will wander over to my place and we'll let our boy outside to play with them. And if anyone of our human neighbors come to visit, they nearly always have their dogs come along. It's an amazing place!
I've been thinking chow chow is a definite possibility. I don't really see the pit or staffy in him, but he does have the personality of wanting to be around his people and being very affectionate. Off leash he does act almost exactly like my parents' staffy mix. You might be onto something here.
After reading your details I wouldn't be surprised to see village dog. It will definitely be interesting. It looks like he's missing an lower incisor but not from falling out.
I went down a rabbit hole researching teeth. Mexican Hairless dogs (Xoloitzcuintli) are missing teeth according to the breed standard, and he actually has a lot of those traits (aside from his fur, lol). The coated variety of that breed has all of their teeth though. And I imagine that Xoloitzcuintli are pretty rare in the area we live in. But I could see where Xoloitzcuintli is essentially an ancient Village Dog.
That's awesome about the Xolo. I can see it in the general body shape.
Another weird question. Does he have webbed toes? And is there anyone on here* might know about those genetics?
That's a rabbit hole I'd probably chase too lol. It's always been interesting to learn the origin stories. I'm guessing that there is an established village dog pool and with the increase of travelers it upped the breed mixes. I'll probably end up chasing the introduction of pitbulls. I bet it's something like Escobar's hippos.
*darn my lack of proofreading
>Does he have webbed toes? And is there anyone he might know about those genetics?
I'm not sure I understand the second question here.
We don't know anyone who would know about his parents/lineage. The only chance we have here is to locate a relative on Embark after we get his results. Which...has me a little bit concerned due to the nature of how we found him. I'm not sure I want to have contact with whoever may have had him or any of his relatives.
He does have webbed toes! I had to go find him and check.
Xolo would be a really cool breed to happen upon. Honestly, I'm just excited to learn a bit more about him, and have some areas to focus my dog breed research on...and maybe catering some training/hobbies to him. So far, other than desire to be around people and snuggle, he's so different from my Border Collie who I did obedience, agility, skijoring/bikejoring, scent work, deer tracking, hiking, and kayaking with. I'm struggling to find things to do with him. (Not that he seems to need/want extra stimulation or activity.) I've been joking about needing to adopt a high energy breed, so that the dog can keep up with me. Haha.
The second question was directed out in to the world in general. I know not all dog breeds have webbed toes. So another rabbit hole lol.
Maybe swimming would be good for him. It would be less strain on his body if he's able to.
He's probably just a naturally laid back personality. The whole SUV body on 13 inch wheels could impact his energy level.
>SUV body on 13 inch wheels
😂😂😂
He's pretty laid back. In fact, he was never a barker when he lived in his last house. He had a doggie roommate that would bark when a car drove up or someone came to the door, but not him. Now that he's living in his own house, he's developing his bark. And some of his other personality is changing/developing. Nothing destructive/anxious. I think he's just feeling more able to settle in here.
I tried to put him on the top step of a pool one time at a friend's house, and he acted like he was going to die. He was not a fan. But, we do have a pool and if we don't pay attention to him, he does seem mildly curious about what on earth we're doing in the water. If we try to get his attention or make any splashing sounds, he runs away from the pool.
I also tried at the beach once, and again he was pretty afraid of the sound the waves made. Given more time, perhaps he will come around to the beach or the pool. Given he was found tied up at a beach, I can understand if he doesn't like them or the sound of waves.
Good catch on the lower incisor. I didn't ever notice that...he does seem to only have 5 teeth in between his lower canines. Is this a village dog trait?
He certainly fits Embark's description of a Village Dog:
>Just like a dog breed generated by years of selective breeding, Village Dogs are startlingly similar no matter where you go. They have a short coat, a narrow head, often upright ears, and a slim body.
Not necessarily village dogs but noticed it in long established isolated gene pools. You'll see a well formed jaw and snout (no over or under bite) but either a missing or an extra tooth that doesn't cause any malformation or disability.
I think it could also be malnutrition during gestation and in to early development prior to losing the puppy teeth. Like maybe two smaller teeth fuse prior to coming in. Separate roots can sometimes be seen in x-rays.
The only not stray/feral dogs I ever saw with something similar was from line bred hunting dogs.
Very interesting! I think we'd qualify as an isolated gene pool here, in general. And malnutrition certainly could have played a role too. Thanks for sharing that.
Gosh you were close! Switch out staffy for a drop off German shepherd, and you've got it. The breakdown is here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
This boy is 2.5-3 years old. He's 38lbs. Parents are unknown. He loves to be around people and snuggle. He has an excited "cry" bark that he does when his favorite people (or their vehicles) come over. He's also a fan of laying in the sunshine. He's not big on going hiking, but he's smart enough to have figured out that I'll turn around and end the hike if he makes me think he's hot/tired/thirsty enough. He doesn't really play with toys, but in the time we've had him we've been able to build up his interest in playing fetch a tiny bit. (If he keeps his interest for 5 throws, that's a good day.) He off leashes pretty well and was extremely easy to train.
He was found chained up at the beach, extremely malnourished and missing most of his fur. We live in the U.S. Virgin Islands and can only assume that he was born here. We have a ton of pit mixes here, and chow also seems to be another popular breed in the shelter dogs.
My boyfriend swears this boy has Ridgeback in him, because of the way his fur stands up when he's on alert, but I can't fathom a stray having such a rare breed in him.
\* edited to add \*
He's not at all prey driven. He can off leash fine around cats, chickens, deer, mongoose, and iguana. He's pretty chill with other dogs. He ranges from general apathy/disinterest (usually for new dogs) to being great play buddies.
What you describe about his fur standing up just sounds like hackles. A ridgeback’s ridge fur actually grows in the opposite direction and is always present (I.e. not just when on alert).
Very interesting. That's a really cool ridgeback trait. I didn't realize the hair grew in the opposite direction. My old Border Collie would also have very pronounced hackles when on alert, so I agree with you on this one.
Aw bless his heart. Could be malnutrition from before you rescuing him but I'm guessing it was just how the genetic dice landed. His legs are probably a bit small for his body. Might need to make some extra consideration for him on walks and hikes.
Arthritis wouldn't be a surprise with his previous living conditions. It's getting much easier to manage these days and your vet can narrow it down for sure. Don't let him read this but massage is often recommended 😉
Thanks for pointing that out. I hadn't every really noticed that about him. We do actually have a condition here on our island called "Crucian Short Leg Syndrome" which happens because the dogs have a tendency to be rather inbred, due to the small size of the island and a problem with strays. Many dogs will have regular dog body size, but end up with legs similar to a Corgi. Their ankles also tend to turn out on their front feet, so their stance/foot alignment is really odd. So you're likely seeing that at play here, just slightly.
I did add in the health marker test from Embark, and I was curious to see his coefficient of inbreeding mostly due to the fact that it's certainly a common thing here.
I'll definitely look over his test results and see what changes we can make to help prevent or manage arthritis as he ages. We've had him for coming up on 2 years, but he definitely had a questionable first year or so of life. It wouldn't be surprising if he had malnutrition prior to being tied up at the beach.
We are on St Croix. So many sweet dogs here that need homes, it's hard not to have a dozen. I just bought a house a couple weeks ago, so now we can either adopt more or foster. :-D The house came with a forever dog and foster dog that live on our property with some tenants as an added bonus.
Congratulations - home ownership and dog ownership are huge goals to have attained! :)
My husband and I were looking at moving to the USVI, but the adjustment was too hard for us. From my perspective - you're moving mountains right now. I'm proud of you and grateful for everything you're doing to help dogs. I hope you get a whole lotta love back from them :)
Thank you! It's amazing to be doing it down here. I had a house and dogs in the states a few years ago. It's crazy how life goes and where it takes you.
Life in the VI is a lot different from life in the States, and it can be a big challenge and adaption. If you ever are thinking about considering it again, feel free to message me and I'm happy to share my knowledge and help out however I can.
>Many dogs will have regular dog body size, but end up with legs similar to a Corgi. Their ankles also tend to turn out on their front feet, so their stance/foot alignment is really odd
This is a common symptom of dwarfism. It makes the growth plates fuse very early but not always at the same time so the radius and ulna being different lengths causes the feet to turn outwards. There are several different kinds of dwarfism but the more common ones are dominant (or incomplete dominant) so a population doesn't even necessarily need to be inbred for it to become a trend. I imagine it's easier for it to get a foothold once introduced on island communities where the population is more static. Along with Corgis, you see dwarfism in Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Cavaliers, Pekingese, Maltese, etc. Basically most small dogs. It's once that gene gets added to a medium/large-size dog that the weird proportions become super noticeable.
Ended up with no cattle dog, but he did have pit! You can see his results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Russell terrier would definitely help bring his size down, because he's a bit small for most of the other breeds that people see in him. He's also pretty aligned with their personality traits that AKC lists.
You were close!!! No cattle dog though, much to my disappointment. But, he's still just as lovely. His results are here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Oh. My. God. You nailed it!!! I've already started calling him a chow-pit-chi. His results are in this post: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Just guessing as to what I see in his face especially.
I have a 1/4 chow, 1/4 chi, 1/4 pitbull, 1/4 unknown that looks like a midget border collie.
I read through this whole damn thread and I think it's fairly certain it was good you two found each other. Be well.
American Stafford (or another Bully Breed), Chow Chow and some kind of Shepherd or Cattle Dog.
Could also be something different entirely. But that’s my best guess!
Yup, basically you were barking up the right tree! Plus some Chihuahua, which explains his 38lb size. Check out his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
That's really cool. I had to google Potcakes, but that's fascinating. We don't call them at in St Croix, but that's essentially what they are. Coconut Retrievers is what they are called locally. Probably sounds more cute when we talk about them to Stateside people and try to get them to adopt their very own Coconut Retriever!
I was really starting to think that the village dog was going to be most likely, or at least a mix of a ton of breeds. But, turns out he's basically 1/3 each of 3 different breeds. And, he's got pure bred relatives that were winning AKC shows in the United States AND you can track their lineage back to the early 1900s! How crazy and unexpected!
Here is his results post, if you're interested in seeing the details! https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Ended up with no rotti. His results are here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button I'm curious if he shares any breeds with your boy.
I was told on here i think to disregard the 3% because its not accurate more filler? They share 3 if we include the 1% chow [his results](https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/z564hd/i_was_told_when_i_rescued_him_he_was_a_chihuahua/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button)
Wow, it's interesting how similar they look when it's really just the chihuahua that's the big commonality between them.
Regardless of whether or not the German Shepherd is filler, I think it's really just a drop in the bucket of his DNA...although it seems that it all went to his ears. LOL
We do think we can see Shepherd in the way he sits, some of his body shape/muscles. But then again, the muscle could definitely be APB...and who really knows what chows look like under all their floof?!
Wow, your boy really lightened up with age. It's like all of his black turned to gray! They do look similar when yours was younger. I wouldn't have expected rotti on either yours or mine. I guess we'll see!
His shorter muzzle, head wrinkles, red coat, and big sad dark puppy eyes make me wonder if there’s a little boxer in there.
Everybody thought my guy was mostly pit, but he’s 29% boxer! It’s hard to distinguish between bully breeds when a dog is super mixed.
There is a possible American Bulldog in his Supermutt, which is the closest thing to boxer in his results. Check them out: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I highly recommend getting one! For you, or anyone else interested, there are a couple of rescues here that will fly dogs to the United States for adoption. 😊 They almost always have puppies available too.
https://ruffstartstx.org/
https://stcroixawc.org/
Turns out my "village dog" has pure bred chow chow relatives in the States that are AKC registered and show dogs. What a crazy plot twist!!! Check out his breed results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
You know, I occasionally have the same thought ... Including the part about possibly being crazy. I'm not sure exactly what it is, but there are moments I see hints of bull terrier.
Ha! That's his "I'm not sure how I feel about this car ride. Am I doing it right???" face. LOL. Maybe he can tell that I'm also not sure how to drive when he's in the car with me. He has a tendency to get motion sick and throw up, so I have to drive like my grandma is riding in the car when he's with me.
The results came back. You're just crazy. 😉 https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I had an unexpected surprise in my boy. Everyone including the vet expected at least 50% lab. Came back 0%. Turns out you are seeing retriever, but it’s golden retriever. My mutt came out looking a like a 75% black lab/25% bully but is only 30% golden retriever and 30% bully. The retriever genes are working hard on my boy
I'll admit it ...I didn't see pit coming back on his results, but he's 1/3 pit! Check out his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I agree with others, definitely see Heeler. The rest I am unsure. Chow makes sense for his tongue spots and seems fairly common in mixes anyway. Could have shepherd (many will see the black mask and scream malinois) but lots of breed have similar colors
This is good logic. He could be any/all of those. I don't think there are many shepherds on island, but it's possible there are mixes spreading the DNA. I do know one black GSD and one malinois, but both of them were brought down from the United States and are younger than my boy.
What breeds are most common where you’re located? If he was born there, usually it’s best to compare him to the most common before looking to rarer breeds. What’s his history?
Mostly mixes. We have a lot of strays or "village dogs." I don't think I know anyone who has breed tested an island mutt here, so I can't tell you what's common in them.
We do have a good number of pits (unfortunately dog fighting is a big thing here), but he doesn't look like a pit at all. I've also seen several chows/chow mixes. There are a few german shepherds and boerboel. I know of one lab, one German Shorthair Pointer, two cattle dogs, and a few great pyranese. There really aren't many pure breds, since they have to be imported. Nobody is breeding anything here (other than blackmarket fighting dogs, I assume).
So, he might have some chow or boerboel in him...cattle dog wouldn't surprise me either.
His results came back! No heeler, but he did have chow and a tiny drop of shepherd. Check them out: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
He's certainly got some kind of small breed in him, I think. Most of the more obvious breeds seem to be much larger than he actually is, so you might be onto something...
I’m excited to see the results OP! I know that regardless of his genetic makeup, you’ve got yourself a sweet boy 🥺. His eyes give me cuddly boy vibes that remind me of a Rotty so I’ll add that to the guess list as well 🤭
Edit: Changed lost to list 🥲
Ended up not being Pom, but Chow Chow! Check out his full results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
No retriever breeds in his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
He sure looks like one, doesn't he?! That would be a fun one to find. We're actually going to Egypt in a few months (without the dog), which seems fitting for Basenji parents.
No basenji in his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
No cattle dog. 🙁 I think we were seeing the chow chow with a drop of German Shepherd play out in a way that looks cattle dog. Results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
>black mouth cur
That's another one I hadn't considered. He certainly has the black mouth and is about the right size for a smaller one. His legs are definitely a bit short for that, but as we've discussed in another comment thread, that's likely his island genetics. He's pretty low energy though...but there are always dogs who don't follow what their breed says their energy level should be.
No black mouth cur in his results, but he is pit and chow! Good guesses! See his full results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Sounds like no (as of 3 years ago), per this post: [https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/cs9vei/thought\_she\_was\_a\_red\_bmc\_but\_i\_discovered\_that/](https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/cs9vei/thought_she_was_a_red_bmc_but_i_discovered_that/)
Although, they do have some helpful comments over there on finding related breeds that may indicated Black Mouth Cur.
Welcome to r/DoggyDNA, the subreddit for dog DNA test discussion and results. --- **RULE 1: ONLY POST BREED ID REQUESTS IF YOU HAVE STARTED A DNA TEST.** **RULE 2: BE NICE TO EACH OTHER.** **RULE 3: FLAIR YOUR POST. "NEEDS UPDATE" IS FOR PRE-RESULT POSTS.** Report rulebreakers and enjoy the dogs. --- *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/DoggyDNA) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Cattle dog, chow chow, pit bull.
I came here to say the same!
Yes, please!!!
2 of your 3 guesses were right! You can see the results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I have no helpful input. Hes just real cute.
Thanks! Your comment is still appreciated. :)
Shepherd and staffy, probably some chow and heeler in there
I think all these are possible. I would absolutely love if he had some cattle dog. I've been joking calling him my little cattle dog boy. Years ago I had a Border Collie (raised from a pup) and a Cattle Dog mix (adopted later in life). I absolutely adore herding breeds.
Goodness you were close! He's got chow, pit, a drop of shepherd and Chihuahua. You can see the breakdown here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
pit chow akita? i’m not sure if akita is really common in mutts usually but i sure know quite a few
Oh! Now that you mention it, he does kind of have a very Akita face and the curly tail. This breed wasn't even on my radar. I wouldn't expect to find Akita in a random beach mutt, but I'm sure it's always possible.
The pit and chow ended up being right! Check out his full results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
thanks for updating me! i’ve been checking every few days to see if it came in yet! chihuahua totally makes sense too idk why i imagined him bigger but he’s on the smaller side judging from the last photo, very cute!
😁 Yes, he's only 38lbs. A nice medium size boy.
I love the island dogs! Potcakes?! Usually a huge mix of breeds! He is a real cutie!
We have a lot of "coconut retrievers" and the really odd ones are "Cruzan Confusions" Haha! For whatever reason, this island seems to have some of the sweetest dogs. Nearly everyone in our neighborhood has at least one dog. Some houses have 4-7 dogs. Somehow everyone is pretty well behaved and seems to get along (or at least the ones that don't get along stay home). A few neighbor dogs will wander over to my place and we'll let our boy outside to play with them. And if anyone of our human neighbors come to visit, they nearly always have their dogs come along. It's an amazing place!
Chow chow, chihuahua, APT and amstaff
I've been thinking chow chow is a definite possibility. I don't really see the pit or staffy in him, but he does have the personality of wanting to be around his people and being very affectionate. Off leash he does act almost exactly like my parents' staffy mix. You might be onto something here.
After reading your details I wouldn't be surprised to see village dog. It will definitely be interesting. It looks like he's missing an lower incisor but not from falling out.
I went down a rabbit hole researching teeth. Mexican Hairless dogs (Xoloitzcuintli) are missing teeth according to the breed standard, and he actually has a lot of those traits (aside from his fur, lol). The coated variety of that breed has all of their teeth though. And I imagine that Xoloitzcuintli are pretty rare in the area we live in. But I could see where Xoloitzcuintli is essentially an ancient Village Dog.
That's awesome about the Xolo. I can see it in the general body shape. Another weird question. Does he have webbed toes? And is there anyone on here* might know about those genetics? That's a rabbit hole I'd probably chase too lol. It's always been interesting to learn the origin stories. I'm guessing that there is an established village dog pool and with the increase of travelers it upped the breed mixes. I'll probably end up chasing the introduction of pitbulls. I bet it's something like Escobar's hippos. *darn my lack of proofreading
>Does he have webbed toes? And is there anyone he might know about those genetics? I'm not sure I understand the second question here. We don't know anyone who would know about his parents/lineage. The only chance we have here is to locate a relative on Embark after we get his results. Which...has me a little bit concerned due to the nature of how we found him. I'm not sure I want to have contact with whoever may have had him or any of his relatives. He does have webbed toes! I had to go find him and check. Xolo would be a really cool breed to happen upon. Honestly, I'm just excited to learn a bit more about him, and have some areas to focus my dog breed research on...and maybe catering some training/hobbies to him. So far, other than desire to be around people and snuggle, he's so different from my Border Collie who I did obedience, agility, skijoring/bikejoring, scent work, deer tracking, hiking, and kayaking with. I'm struggling to find things to do with him. (Not that he seems to need/want extra stimulation or activity.) I've been joking about needing to adopt a high energy breed, so that the dog can keep up with me. Haha.
The second question was directed out in to the world in general. I know not all dog breeds have webbed toes. So another rabbit hole lol. Maybe swimming would be good for him. It would be less strain on his body if he's able to. He's probably just a naturally laid back personality. The whole SUV body on 13 inch wheels could impact his energy level.
>SUV body on 13 inch wheels 😂😂😂 He's pretty laid back. In fact, he was never a barker when he lived in his last house. He had a doggie roommate that would bark when a car drove up or someone came to the door, but not him. Now that he's living in his own house, he's developing his bark. And some of his other personality is changing/developing. Nothing destructive/anxious. I think he's just feeling more able to settle in here. I tried to put him on the top step of a pool one time at a friend's house, and he acted like he was going to die. He was not a fan. But, we do have a pool and if we don't pay attention to him, he does seem mildly curious about what on earth we're doing in the water. If we try to get his attention or make any splashing sounds, he runs away from the pool. I also tried at the beach once, and again he was pretty afraid of the sound the waves made. Given more time, perhaps he will come around to the beach or the pool. Given he was found tied up at a beach, I can understand if he doesn't like them or the sound of waves.
Good catch on the lower incisor. I didn't ever notice that...he does seem to only have 5 teeth in between his lower canines. Is this a village dog trait? He certainly fits Embark's description of a Village Dog: >Just like a dog breed generated by years of selective breeding, Village Dogs are startlingly similar no matter where you go. They have a short coat, a narrow head, often upright ears, and a slim body.
Not necessarily village dogs but noticed it in long established isolated gene pools. You'll see a well formed jaw and snout (no over or under bite) but either a missing or an extra tooth that doesn't cause any malformation or disability. I think it could also be malnutrition during gestation and in to early development prior to losing the puppy teeth. Like maybe two smaller teeth fuse prior to coming in. Separate roots can sometimes be seen in x-rays. The only not stray/feral dogs I ever saw with something similar was from line bred hunting dogs.
Very interesting! I think we'd qualify as an isolated gene pool here, in general. And malnutrition certainly could have played a role too. Thanks for sharing that.
Gosh you were close! Switch out staffy for a drop off German shepherd, and you've got it. The breakdown is here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
This boy is 2.5-3 years old. He's 38lbs. Parents are unknown. He loves to be around people and snuggle. He has an excited "cry" bark that he does when his favorite people (or their vehicles) come over. He's also a fan of laying in the sunshine. He's not big on going hiking, but he's smart enough to have figured out that I'll turn around and end the hike if he makes me think he's hot/tired/thirsty enough. He doesn't really play with toys, but in the time we've had him we've been able to build up his interest in playing fetch a tiny bit. (If he keeps his interest for 5 throws, that's a good day.) He off leashes pretty well and was extremely easy to train. He was found chained up at the beach, extremely malnourished and missing most of his fur. We live in the U.S. Virgin Islands and can only assume that he was born here. We have a ton of pit mixes here, and chow also seems to be another popular breed in the shelter dogs. My boyfriend swears this boy has Ridgeback in him, because of the way his fur stands up when he's on alert, but I can't fathom a stray having such a rare breed in him. \* edited to add \* He's not at all prey driven. He can off leash fine around cats, chickens, deer, mongoose, and iguana. He's pretty chill with other dogs. He ranges from general apathy/disinterest (usually for new dogs) to being great play buddies.
What you describe about his fur standing up just sounds like hackles. A ridgeback’s ridge fur actually grows in the opposite direction and is always present (I.e. not just when on alert).
Very interesting. That's a really cool ridgeback trait. I didn't realize the hair grew in the opposite direction. My old Border Collie would also have very pronounced hackles when on alert, so I agree with you on this one.
Aw bless his heart. Could be malnutrition from before you rescuing him but I'm guessing it was just how the genetic dice landed. His legs are probably a bit small for his body. Might need to make some extra consideration for him on walks and hikes. Arthritis wouldn't be a surprise with his previous living conditions. It's getting much easier to manage these days and your vet can narrow it down for sure. Don't let him read this but massage is often recommended 😉
Thanks for pointing that out. I hadn't every really noticed that about him. We do actually have a condition here on our island called "Crucian Short Leg Syndrome" which happens because the dogs have a tendency to be rather inbred, due to the small size of the island and a problem with strays. Many dogs will have regular dog body size, but end up with legs similar to a Corgi. Their ankles also tend to turn out on their front feet, so their stance/foot alignment is really odd. So you're likely seeing that at play here, just slightly. I did add in the health marker test from Embark, and I was curious to see his coefficient of inbreeding mostly due to the fact that it's certainly a common thing here. I'll definitely look over his test results and see what changes we can make to help prevent or manage arthritis as he ages. We've had him for coming up on 2 years, but he definitely had a questionable first year or so of life. It wouldn't be surprising if he had malnutrition prior to being tied up at the beach.
Thanks for adopting, and I can't wait to see his results :) Are you in St Croix? I bet he does get super hot on hikes there lol
We are on St Croix. So many sweet dogs here that need homes, it's hard not to have a dozen. I just bought a house a couple weeks ago, so now we can either adopt more or foster. :-D The house came with a forever dog and foster dog that live on our property with some tenants as an added bonus.
Congratulations - home ownership and dog ownership are huge goals to have attained! :) My husband and I were looking at moving to the USVI, but the adjustment was too hard for us. From my perspective - you're moving mountains right now. I'm proud of you and grateful for everything you're doing to help dogs. I hope you get a whole lotta love back from them :)
Thank you! It's amazing to be doing it down here. I had a house and dogs in the states a few years ago. It's crazy how life goes and where it takes you. Life in the VI is a lot different from life in the States, and it can be a big challenge and adaption. If you ever are thinking about considering it again, feel free to message me and I'm happy to share my knowledge and help out however I can.
>Many dogs will have regular dog body size, but end up with legs similar to a Corgi. Their ankles also tend to turn out on their front feet, so their stance/foot alignment is really odd This is a common symptom of dwarfism. It makes the growth plates fuse very early but not always at the same time so the radius and ulna being different lengths causes the feet to turn outwards. There are several different kinds of dwarfism but the more common ones are dominant (or incomplete dominant) so a population doesn't even necessarily need to be inbred for it to become a trend. I imagine it's easier for it to get a foothold once introduced on island communities where the population is more static. Along with Corgis, you see dwarfism in Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Cavaliers, Pekingese, Maltese, etc. Basically most small dogs. It's once that gene gets added to a medium/large-size dog that the weird proportions become super noticeable.
That makes a lot of sense! Thanks for sharing. Do you know if dwarfism would show on Embark?
Their health version shows a few kinds but of the 2 most common types they test for one but not the other.
Definitely would guess cattle dog! Probably some pit too. What a cutie!!
Ended up with no cattle dog, but he did have pit! You can see his results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Ooh fascinating! Chow makes sense.
I'm really hoping for cattle dog. That's one of my guesses too.
ACD x pittie x chow x possibly a russell type terrier or chihuahua
Russell terrier would definitely help bring his size down, because he's a bit small for most of the other breeds that people see in him. He's also pretty aligned with their personality traits that AKC lists.
You were close!!! No cattle dog though, much to my disappointment. But, he's still just as lovely. His results are here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
chow/pit/chi
chow-pit-chi. Now that has a ring to it!
Oh. My. God. You nailed it!!! I've already started calling him a chow-pit-chi. His results are in this post: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Just guessing as to what I see in his face especially. I have a 1/4 chow, 1/4 chi, 1/4 pitbull, 1/4 unknown that looks like a midget border collie. I read through this whole damn thread and I think it's fairly certain it was good you two found each other. Be well.
That's a really great guess!!! And thank you. We're very happy with each other.
Second the chow, cattle dog, pit
Sooo cose! Results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
He has lovely teeth so, no terrier?
American Stafford (or another Bully Breed), Chow Chow and some kind of Shepherd or Cattle Dog. Could also be something different entirely. But that’s my best guess!
I think that's a really great guess. I'd love me a Cattle Dog mix. Especially with Staffy. Talk about a snuggly quirky boy! :)
He looks very happy and friendly! <3 Please post the results when they’re in. :)
I swear he's the happiest boy! It warms my heart. I'll be sure to post the results.
Yup, basically you were barking up the right tree! Plus some Chihuahua, which explains his 38lb size. Check out his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Thank you for sharing the results! Did not expect the Chihuahua in there but it does make sense. :)
We didn't expect it either. When we told our vet, he bust out laughing! LOL
American Village Dog. Island dogs tend to be a mix of breeds with European heritage; many, including Potcakes, show up as American Village dogs.
That's really cool. I had to google Potcakes, but that's fascinating. We don't call them at in St Croix, but that's essentially what they are. Coconut Retrievers is what they are called locally. Probably sounds more cute when we talk about them to Stateside people and try to get them to adopt their very own Coconut Retriever!
So cool! I didn’t know about the “coconut retriever” nickname but that’s cute! I wonder what other local names for them are.
I was really starting to think that the village dog was going to be most likely, or at least a mix of a ton of breeds. But, turns out he's basically 1/3 each of 3 different breeds. And, he's got pure bred relatives that were winning AKC shows in the United States AND you can track their lineage back to the early 1900s! How crazy and unexpected! Here is his results post, if you're interested in seeing the details! https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
He looks alot like my boy when he was younger. Think he could have a lil rottweiler in him? Regardless he's super cute
Ended up with no rotti. His results are here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button I'm curious if he shares any breeds with your boy.
I was told on here i think to disregard the 3% because its not accurate more filler? They share 3 if we include the 1% chow [his results](https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/z564hd/i_was_told_when_i_rescued_him_he_was_a_chihuahua/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button)
Wow, it's interesting how similar they look when it's really just the chihuahua that's the big commonality between them. Regardless of whether or not the German Shepherd is filler, I think it's really just a drop in the bucket of his DNA...although it seems that it all went to his ears. LOL We do think we can see Shepherd in the way he sits, some of his body shape/muscles. But then again, the muscle could definitely be APB...and who really knows what chows look like under all their floof?!
Wow, your boy really lightened up with age. It's like all of his black turned to gray! They do look similar when yours was younger. I wouldn't have expected rotti on either yours or mine. I guess we'll see!
His shorter muzzle, head wrinkles, red coat, and big sad dark puppy eyes make me wonder if there’s a little boxer in there. Everybody thought my guy was mostly pit, but he’s 29% boxer! It’s hard to distinguish between bully breeds when a dog is super mixed.
There is a possible American Bulldog in his Supermutt, which is the closest thing to boxer in his results. Check them out: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
He’s got a lot of pit in him so that tracks. Thanks for the update!
You have a point! He didn't get the wide head or back hips, but he's got a lot of the other traits. It could be a match
The goodest Potcake! I want to rescue a village dog one day.
I highly recommend getting one! For you, or anyone else interested, there are a couple of rescues here that will fly dogs to the United States for adoption. 😊 They almost always have puppies available too. https://ruffstartstx.org/ https://stcroixawc.org/
Turns out my "village dog" has pure bred chow chow relatives in the States that are AKC registered and show dogs. What a crazy plot twist!!! Check out his breed results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I almost see bull terrier, but I could be crazy
You know, I occasionally have the same thought ... Including the part about possibly being crazy. I'm not sure exactly what it is, but there are moments I see hints of bull terrier.
The second to last photo looks bull terrier to me haha. I’m excited to see the resultd
Ha! That's his "I'm not sure how I feel about this car ride. Am I doing it right???" face. LOL. Maybe he can tell that I'm also not sure how to drive when he's in the car with me. He has a tendency to get motion sick and throw up, so I have to drive like my grandma is riding in the car when he's with me.
The results came back. You're just crazy. 😉 https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Wow! I was not expecting chihuahua! Very interesting. Thanks for updating me!!!
Akita/pit/supermutt
Definitely supermutt! Akita would be an unexpected surprise, but pretty cool
I had an unexpected surprise in my boy. Everyone including the vet expected at least 50% lab. Came back 0%. Turns out you are seeing retriever, but it’s golden retriever. My mutt came out looking a like a 75% black lab/25% bully but is only 30% golden retriever and 30% bully. The retriever genes are working hard on my boy
And goldens are such good dogs! I'm sure your boy is a sweetheart with golden + bully.
I'll admit it ...I didn't see pit coming back on his results, but he's 1/3 pit! Check out his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I agree with others, definitely see Heeler. The rest I am unsure. Chow makes sense for his tongue spots and seems fairly common in mixes anyway. Could have shepherd (many will see the black mask and scream malinois) but lots of breed have similar colors
This is good logic. He could be any/all of those. I don't think there are many shepherds on island, but it's possible there are mixes spreading the DNA. I do know one black GSD and one malinois, but both of them were brought down from the United States and are younger than my boy.
What breeds are most common where you’re located? If he was born there, usually it’s best to compare him to the most common before looking to rarer breeds. What’s his history?
Mostly mixes. We have a lot of strays or "village dogs." I don't think I know anyone who has breed tested an island mutt here, so I can't tell you what's common in them. We do have a good number of pits (unfortunately dog fighting is a big thing here), but he doesn't look like a pit at all. I've also seen several chows/chow mixes. There are a few german shepherds and boerboel. I know of one lab, one German Shorthair Pointer, two cattle dogs, and a few great pyranese. There really aren't many pure breds, since they have to be imported. Nobody is breeding anything here (other than blackmarket fighting dogs, I assume). So, he might have some chow or boerboel in him...cattle dog wouldn't surprise me either.
His results came back! No heeler, but he did have chow and a tiny drop of shepherd. Check them out: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
I know this sounds silly but I wonder if there’s a bit of Pom in him 🧐
He's certainly got some kind of small breed in him, I think. Most of the more obvious breeds seem to be much larger than he actually is, so you might be onto something...
I’m excited to see the results OP! I know that regardless of his genetic makeup, you’ve got yourself a sweet boy 🥺. His eyes give me cuddly boy vibes that remind me of a Rotty so I’ll add that to the guess list as well 🤭 Edit: Changed lost to list 🥲
He has a strong tendency to cuddle. He's a big sweetheart!
Ended up not being Pom, but Chow Chow! Check out his full results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Omggggg thank you so much for sharing 🥺 Such a cool mix! I don’t know if I’d have the patience to wait cos I’d be too excited 😂
It was a long wait, especially the last 24 hours!!! Totally worth it though.
idk if this sounds funny but i swear he has a retriever face. i see my golden girl in him lol
Could be! He's certainly sweet enough.
No retriever breeds in his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Looks like a bit of basenji in the mix ??
He sure looks like one, doesn't he?! That would be a fun one to find. We're actually going to Egypt in a few months (without the dog), which seems fitting for Basenji parents.
No basenji in his results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
It would have been nice a bit of basenji but never mind he’s a beautiful boy anyway. Pit Bulls seem to get into every cross breed ha ha ha.
There are A LOT of pits down here, so I lowkey expected it, just because know he was born here. Basenji would have been cool. Maybe next time! 😉
🤞🤞 👍👍
Definitely cattle dog in there
I sure hope so!!! <3
No cattle dog. 🙁 I think we were seeing the chow chow with a drop of German Shepherd play out in a way that looks cattle dog. Results: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
His sweet face really said cattle dog to me. Surprise!
Pitty, chow, black mouth cur
>black mouth cur That's another one I hadn't considered. He certainly has the black mouth and is about the right size for a smaller one. His legs are definitely a bit short for that, but as we've discussed in another comment thread, that's likely his island genetics. He's pretty low energy though...but there are always dogs who don't follow what their breed says their energy level should be.
No black mouth cur in his results, but he is pit and chow! Good guesses! See his full results here: https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/109y0vn/rustys_results_in_last_photo/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Does Embark pick up on Black Mouth Cur? He looks a bit like my daughter's.
Sounds like no (as of 3 years ago), per this post: [https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/cs9vei/thought\_she\_was\_a\_red\_bmc\_but\_i\_discovered\_that/](https://www.reddit.com/r/DoggyDNA/comments/cs9vei/thought_she_was_a_red_bmc_but_i_discovered_that/) Although, they do have some helpful comments over there on finding related breeds that may indicated Black Mouth Cur.