Unprecedented genetic study reveals origin, health and identity of the caramel dog, the dog that has become the symbol of Brazil
Present in squares, at the doors of homes and in the collective imagination of every Brazilian, the caramel mutt is one of the greatest symbols of the country. Today, for the first time, science has created an official genetic portrait of the animal. The goal was to find out who he is, where he comes from and why he looks so similar in any corner of Brazil.
Mapping is part of the campaign “Caramelo: Brazilian cultural heritage”, led by PEDIGREE® in partnership with DNA Pets. A total of 305 dogs identified as caramels had their DNA analyzed from saliva samples collected in the five regions of the country. The result goes beyond curiosity: it reveals interesting biological, behavioral and health patterns.
A dog shaped by diversity
Long before recognized breeds existed, dogs were shaped by human needs: protection, work and companionship. Over time, small variations in DNA gave rise to hundreds of breeds. Caramel, in turn, followed another path: that of continuous crossbreeding.
Behind its simple appearance lies a complex genetic puzzle. The analysis assessed approximately 65,000 genetic markers and found influences from 296 different breeds. The most common were the German Shepherd, american pitbull terrierPekingese, loulou German and Spanish greyhound. An unlikely mix which, interestingly enough, results in a very recognizable look.
The “face” of the caramel exists and repeats itself
Even with such genetic diversity, researchers observed something surprising: Brazilian caramels look very similar, regardless of the region where they live. From Oiapoque to Chuí, the profile repeats itself. The so-called caramel “basic kit” includes: medium size, short hair, fawn color (the famous caramel), a medium to long muzzle and erect or semi-erect ears.
The research also identified four most common physical trends – from urban caramel to southern caramel, including versions typical of the North, Northeast, Southeast and Midwest. Yet, without significant statistical differences between regions. It’s as if Brazil had spontaneously created the same dog in several places at once.
Diversified genetics, protected health
One of the most important findings of the study is related to health. 152 genetic variants associated with hereditary diseases were analyzed. Only 21% of dogs had one of these variants – and, in most cases, they were only carriers, with no risk of developing the disease.
This protection comes from genetic diversity. Unlike many purebreds, in which recessive mutations accumulate, SRDs are less likely to inherit two altered copies of the same gene. The most common change was degenerative myelopathy, a rare neurological disease more common in herding breeds. Despite this, the overall risk remains low and veterinary surveillance can help preserve the quality of life of affected animals.
A temperament that conquers
Anyone living with a Caramel easily recognizes their pattern: sociable, adaptable, balanced energy, and an impressive ability to make friends. Science helps explain. The genetic mix promotes a stable temperament and reduces extreme behavior, making Caramel the “quintessential” dog, the ideal companion for different lifestyles.
A symbol that now has science
By revealing caramel’s DNA, the study translates into data what Brazil has always intuitively known: this dog is diverse, resilient and deeply Brazilian. A reflection of the crossbreeding specific to the country, which transformed the mixture into identity. Perhaps the greatest merit of the research is this: remembering that, behind the simplicity of the caramel dog, there is science, history and genetic richness worth seeing – and embracing.
About The Author
