How is the Good Boy Index calculated?
The Good Boy Index (GBI) is a multi-trait polygenic score constructed using MTAG, jointly analyzing treat responsiveness, recall compliance, tail-wag frequency, and spontaneous lap-seeking behavior to boost effective GWAS sample size by approximately 40%. SNP heritability is estimated at h²_SNP=0.38 via LD score regression, and litter-based heritability is considerably higher (h²=0.71), suggesting substantial missing heritability that may reflect rare variants, structural variation, or epistatic effects not captured by common SNP arrays. Sibling regression on 2,400 litter-mate pairs in the UKPaw-bank cohort yields an estimate of 0.91 (SE=2.24), which we interpret cautiously. The within-litter design controls for population stratification, dynastic effects, and gene-environment correlation, including indirect genetic effects from dam and sire behavior. We also observe gene-environment interaction: GBI scores predict behavior less accurately in multi-dog households, possibly due to dominance hierarchy confounds.
Is this the same technology used in human IVF?
Yes. Our ImputePGTA pipeline and SBayesRC scoring engine are identical to those deployed in over 30 human fertility clinics. The only modification is the reference genome and training data. We believe companion animals deserve the same standard of genetic optimization currently available to humans.
How do you perform IVF on a goldfish?
Technically, we don't. Fish fertilization is external, which simplifies the process considerably. We collect egg clutches post-spawning, perform micro-aspiration of individual blastomeres at the 64-cell stage, and run low-pass whole genome sequencing. The real innovation was waterproofing the biopsy needle. Patent pending.
What is the "Squirrel Fixation Index" and why is it safety-critical?
The Squirrel Fixation Index (SFI) measures a dog's polygenic predisposition toward single-minded pursuit of Sciuridae family members. An SFI above the 90th percentile is associated with a 4.7x increase in leash-related shoulder injuries to owners. We classify this as safety-critical based on actuarial data from pet insurance claims.
Is the "General Roundness Score" for hamsters scientifically rigorous?
The General Roundness Score (GRS) is a composite polygenic score derived from 847 independent loci associated with adiposity distribution, fur density, and skeletal compactness in Mesocricetus auratus. We validated GRS against blinded expert panel ratings (n=3,200 hamsters, inter-rater reliability κ=0.89). The trait is highly heritable (h²=0.71) and, we believe, underserved by existing breeding methodologies.
Do you offer polygenic scoring for emotional support animals?
Yes. Our ESA Optimization Panel includes PGS for empathy responsiveness, anxiety co-regulation capacity, and "ability to look concerned when you're sad." We are currently validating an additional score for "knowing exactly when to put their head on your lap," though the GWAS is underpowered at present.
Can I select for a cat that actually likes me?
Our Feline Affection Score (FAS) explains approximately 89% of variance in owner-directed affection. We want to be transparent that the remaining 11% represents the cat's ancient, primal urge to ignore you completely. Our highest-scoring subjects have been observed initiating cuddles, making eye contact, and (in one unprecedented case) actually coming when called.
What about ethical concerns?
We take ethics extremely seriously. Our veterinary ethics board includes three veterinarians, one animal behaviorist, one philosopher, and one golden retriever named Professor Barkley who has veto power. All decisions require a 4/6 majority, and Professor Barkley has never voted against anything, which we interpret as enthusiastic consent.