The Kazakh Tazy is a
unique breed with high genetic diversity and low levels of inbreeding, as
revealed by scientific research. It took Kazakh scientists three years to prove
that this breed is among the oldest and most purebred, maintaining its best
qualities over centuries. The Tazy dog breed is rightfully considered one of
Kazakhstan’s seven treasures and a national heritage of immense value.
«This is a truly
unique breed, which does not appear in Turkish, Russian, or Afghan greyhounds.
As genetic scientists, we are beginning to study the Tazy breed’s age using
archaeological materials and data. According to historical records, it is over 1,000
years old,» said Iskander Ildarov, Spokesperson for the Institute of Genetics and
Physiology.
Scientists employed
the latest molecular genetic research methods to confirm that the Kazakh Tazy is
among the oldest dog breeds. These techniques enabled an in-depth analysis of the
Tazy’s genome. Experts also thoroughly studied the breed’s behavior,
physiology, and adaptive qualities. They managed to identify a gene responsible
for the Tazy’s speed and endurance
«In this graph, the
Kazakh Tazy was compared with the Afghan Hound, Arabian Saluki, Russian Greyhound,
Bloodhound, Otterhound, and gray wolf. In global science,
it is known that the Afghan hound and saluki are among the most ancient breeds,
and interestingly, the Kazakh breed also aligns with these, as it is ancient as
well. The Kazakh Tazy in our region experienced a bottleneck 50 generations
ago. Nevertheless, now that favorable conditions for breeding have been
established, the breed is expected to thrive and develop,» said Bakhytzhan
Bekmanov, leading researcher at the Institute of Genetics and Physiology.
According to
unofficial data, there are nearly 3,000 Tazy dogs in Kazakhstan. A special
program has been developed in the country as part of ongoing efforts to
preserve the breed. The next step is to achieve official international
recognition of the Tazy as a distinct breed, scientists say.
