The complete electronic record of the Braque Franc¸ais type Pyr en ees reared in Italy was downloaded from the ENCI database in order to estimate the genetic variability of the breed. Pedigree records of all active registered animals (reference population ¼ RP) were considered. The whole population (WP ¼ RP and its genealogy) included 1250 dogs (628 males and 622 females). Seven hundred eighty-three dogs were inbred. To explain 50% of the genetic variability, a total of seven ancestors were

more »

... icient in the RP. The average inbreeding coefficient (F) in the RP was 4.3%, while the average inbreeding of the inbred was 5.19%. F was <0.05 in 511 dogs (65.3% of inbred), whereas it was >0.20 in only 13 dogs (1.66% of inbred). F per year ranged from 0.98% for dogs born in 2003 (27 dogs) to 7.05% in 204 dogs born in 2009. Ten traced generations were highlighted. A maximum average inbreeding value (6.62%) was observed in the dogs with 10 traced generations. This research highlighted the good genetic variability of the breed obtained through the efficient management by the Italian Club of Braque Franc¸ais Type Pyrenees (CIBF), in collaboration with the member breeders and the active cooperation of the French Club. The CIBF has made arrangements with our genetic centre to constantly monitor the genetic variability of the breed in order to prevent excessive increases in inbreeding in the future. ARTICLE HISTORY