The genetic control of umbilical hernias is not entirely clear. A “familial” cause has been suggested and a few specific genes have been recently shown to associate with this condition (Zhao et al., 2008).
However, in general this condition is not due to simple inheritance of a few genes.
Environmental conditions definitely play a role in the incidence of this defect. It is thought that environmental compromises such as navel infections early in life may be linked to the incidence of this condition.
Proper sanitation and hygiene may have a greater chance of reducing the incidence of this condition than trying to eliminate certain boars or dams.