Comprehensive overview: hereditary diseases of dogs

Introduction

We present a deep, comprehensive and methodically precise investigation of hereditary diseases in dogs. Our goal is to not only identify and understand the diseases that exist, but also to minimize the impact on the quality of life of our beloved pets.

Understanding of hereditary diseases

Hereditary diseases are diseases that are caused by genetic mutations and can be passed on from parents to their offspring. These diseases are particularly relevant in dogs because breeding practices have the potential to increase certain diseases.

List of hereditary diseases in dogs

Numerous hereditary diseases of dogs have been described in the scientific and veterinary literature. We provide a comprehensive overview here:

A

• Afghan myelopathy : A neurological disease that occurs in Afghan dogs and results in progressive movement disorders.
• Agammaglobulinemia : An immune defect that affects the production of antibodies, leading to recurrent infections.
• Acral mutilation syndrome : A neurological disorder in which dogs can injure their own paws.
• Canine congenital copper storage disease : A rare disease in which the body stores too much copper, which can lead to serious liver damage.
• Terrier Ataxia and Myelopathy : A neurological disorder that affects the nervous system and results in coordination problems.
• Labrador axonopathy : A neurological disorder occurring primarily in Labrador Retrievers that affects motor function.

b

• Brachycephaly : An anatomical characteristic of some breeds that can lead to health problems such as difficulty breathing.
• Brachyury : A genetic condition that affects the length of the tail.

C

• Canine ceroid lipofuscinosis : A rare neurodegenerative disease that occurs in certain breeds of dogs and causes progressive vision loss and behavioral changes.
• Collie Eye Anomaly : An inherited eye condition that occurs in collies and can lead to a range of vision problems.

D

• Dachshund paralysis : A degeneration of the spine that can occur in dachshunds and other breeds with similar body structure.
• Dalmatian leukodystrophy : A rare disorder found in Dalmatians that affects the central nervous system.
• Dancing Doberman Disease : A neurological disorder that occurs primarily in Dobermans and affects motor function.
• Toy Poodle Degenerative Myelopathy : A neurological disorder that results in progressive paralysis of the hind legs.
• Canine degenerative myelopathies : Group of neurological diseases that affect the spinal cord and lead to restricted movement.

E

• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome : A group of disorders that affect connective tissue and can lead to skin, joint, and blood vessel problems.
• Ectropion : An eye disease in which the eyelid rolls outward.
• Elbow dysplasia : A joint disorder common in large breeds of dogs that can cause lameness and arthritis.
• Endocardiosis : A heart disease that can lead to enlargement of the heart and heart failure.
• Entropion : An eye disease in which the eyelid rolls inward.
• Epiphora (medicine) : Excessive tearing, often due to eye irritation or blockage of the tear ducts.
• Exercise Induced Collapse : A genetic disorder that causes temporary muscle weakness and collapse after intense exercise.

F

• Fibrinoid leukodystrophy : A rare neurological disorder that causes progressive weakness and coordination problems.
• Fucosidosis : A metabolic disease that manifests itself as an accumulation of fucoside molecules in the body and can lead to neurological problems.

H

• Ectopic ureter : A congenital anomaly in which the ureter does not open correctly into the bladder, which can lead to urinary incontinence.
• Hound ataxia : A neurological disorder that occurs in some hunting dog breeds and affects movement coordination.
• Canine hip dysplasia : A common deformity common in large dog breeds that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
• Pituitary Dwarfism in Dogs : A rare genetic disorder that results in reduced growth.

I

• Ichthyosis : A skin condition that results in dry, flaky skin.

K

• Kartagener syndrome : A rare genetic disorder that affects the movement of cilia in the respiratory tract and other organs.
• Congenital vestibular syndrome : A congenital disorder that affects the vestibular system in the inner ear, causing dizziness and imbalance.
• Craniomandibular osteopathy : A bone disease that affects the growth of the jaw and skull.

L

• Rottweiler leukoencephalomyelopathy : A neurodegenerative disease specific to Rottweilers.
• Lundehund Syndrome : A disease that specifically affects Lundehunds and results in gastrointestinal problems.

M

• Malignant histiocytosis : A form of cancer that affects the immune system and is more common in certain dog breeds, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog.
• Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome : A very rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to process certain sugars.
• MDR1 defect : A genetic mutation that affects the dog's ability to process certain medications, commonly found in collies and related breeds.
• Megaesophagus : A condition in which the dog's esophagus is dilated and its function is impaired.
• Merle factor : A genetic peculiarity that affects coat pattern and may be associated with increased health risks.
• Myasthenia gravis : A neurological disorder that causes weakness in skeletal muscles.

N

• Kooiker dog necrotizing myelopathy : A rare neurological disease that occurs in Kooiker dogs and results in progressive paralysis.

O

• Osteochondrosis : A disorder of normal cartilage and bone development that can lead to pain and limited movement.

P

• Patellar Luxation : A condition in which the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position, commonly seen in smaller dog breeds.
• Persistent Baby Teeth : A condition in which baby teeth do not fall out as expected.
• Portosystemic shunt : A congenital anomaly in which blood flows around the liver and directly into the systemic circulation, leading to a variety of health problems.
• Progressive retinal atrophy : A group of diseases that affects the retina of the eye and can cause blindness.

S

• Sanfilippo syndrome : A rare genetic metabolic disorder that causes the buildup of certain sugars in the brain and other organs.
• Sebadenitis : An inflammatory skin disease that causes hair loss and skin lesions.
• Sly syndrome : A rare genetic disorder that causes a buildup of certain sugars in the body and can cause a variety of symptoms.

T

• Canine tracheal collapse : A condition in which the dog's trachea, or windpipe, collapses, causing breathing problems.

v

• Von Willebrand disease : A genetic disorder that affects blood clotting and can lead to excessive bleeding.

Z

• Cerebellar abiotrophy : A group of genetic disorders that affect the function of the cerebellum, leading to movement disorders.
• Zinc-reactive dermatosis : A skin condition caused by a lack of zinc in the dog's body, resulting in skin lesions.

This list offers only a fraction of the many hereditary diseases in dogs. Genetic testing is available for many of these diseases, making it possible to identify potential carriers and minimize the risk of passing on these diseases. Further details and specific clinical pictures can be found in the extensive list on Wikipedia.

Genetic testing to prevent hereditary diseases

To minimize the impact of inherited diseases in dogs, veterinarians and geneticists have developed genetic tests that can identify the presence of certain genetic markers that indicate a potential disease. These tests are a valuable tool for breeders to produce healthier puppies and prevent the spread of hereditary diseases.

Diagnosis of hereditary diseases in dogs

Diagnosing hereditary diseases in dogs can be a complex task that requires different methods and approaches. This depends on the specific disease being diagnosed. Below we provide a comprehensive overview of the general strategies for diagnosing hereditary diseases in dogs.

History and clinical examination

Diagnosis typically begins with a careful history and a thorough clinical examination. The veterinarian will ask questions about the dog's health history, including possible symptoms and when they appeared. He will also ask about the dog's breed and ancestry, as certain breeds may be predisposed to certain hereditary diseases. The clinical examination may include a general assessment of the dog's physical condition, vital signs and specific organ systems.

Laboratory tests

Other diagnostic procedures may include laboratory tests. This may include blood tests, urine tests and, if necessary, stool tests. Such tests can reveal abnormalities that could indicate an underlying genetic disorder. For example, a blood test can reveal changes in the number and types of blood cells, levels of various electrolytes and enzymes, or specific genetic markers.

Imaging procedures

In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to visualize internal structures and identify possible abnormalities. These techniques can be particularly useful when skeletal abnormalities, cardiovascular disease, or neurological disorders are suspected.

Genetic testing for hereditary diseases in dogs

In many cases, genetic testing is the gold standard for diagnosing hereditary diseases in dogs. These tests look for specific genetic mutations that are associated with certain diseases. Typically, a small blood sample or cheek swab is taken and sent to a specialized laboratory for genetic analysis.

Genetic testing can be done before symptoms appear to determine whether a dog is a carrier of a particular hereditary disease. This can be particularly important for breeders who want to prevent these diseases from being passed on to future generations.

Pathological examination of hereditary diseases in dogs

In some cases, a pathological examination may be required to make a definitive diagnosis. This may include a biopsy of suspicious tissue or, in some cases, a postmortem examination (autopsy). These techniques allow veterinary pathologists to examine tissues and cells under the microscope and identify specific changes that could indicate a hereditary disease.

Summary of the diagnosis of dog hereditary diseases

Diagnosing hereditary diseases in dogs requires a thorough and systematic approach that includes a combination of history, clinical examination, laboratory tests, imaging, genetic testing and, if necessary, pathological examinations. While diagnosis can be challenging, it is the crucial step in developing an effective treatment strategy and improving the dog's well-being.

(C) https://www.laboklin.co.uk/laboklin/GeneticDiseases.jsp?catID=DogsGD

Of course, we can also offer appropriate genetic tests for your pet together with service providers such as Laboklin.

Frequently asked questions about hereditary diseases in dogs

What is dominantly inherited in dogs?

Some of the genetic diseases in dogs (hereditary diseases of dogs) that are inherited in a dominant manner include:

1. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): This neurological disorder, often seen in older dogs, affects the spinal cord and causes weakness and difficulty with coordination in the hind legs.
2. Primary lens luxation (PLL): An eye disease in which the lens of the eye becomes detached from its normal position. This disease is common in terrier breeds.
3. Von Willebrand disease (vWD): A blood clotting disorder that can lead to increased blood loss. This disease occurs in some dog breeds, including the Doberman Pinscher and the Shetland Sheepdog.
4. Brachycephaly: An anatomical characteristic characterized by a short skull and a flattened snout. This trait is dominantly inherited and occurs in breeds such as the Bulldog and the Pekingese.

It is important to note that many genetic diseases in dogs are polygenic, meaning that they are caused by the interaction of multiple genes, rather than just a single dominant or recessive gene. Therefore, dogs that have a dominant gene for a particular Carrying the disease does not necessarily show symptoms of that disease, as other genetic and environmental factors may also play a role.

What are the most common dog diseases? Regardless of the dog's hereditary diseases

Dogs can have a variety of health problems, just like humans, regardless of the dog's hereditary diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that can occur in dogs:

1. Dental problems: Tartar buildup and gum inflammation are very common in dogs. They can lead to pain, infection and, in worst cases, tooth loss.
2. Parasite Infestations: Fleas, ticks, worms and other parasites can cause a variety of health problems, from itching and rashes to more serious conditions like heartworms.
3. Overweight and Obesity: Like humans, dogs can become overweight, which can lead to a number of health problems such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.
4. Arthritis: Older dogs often suffer from arthritis, a painful inflammation of the joints that can affect mobility.
5. Skin Problems: Skin problems, including allergies, can be common in dogs and can result in itching, rashes, and infections.
6. Ear Infections: Dogs, especially those with droopy ears, are susceptible to ear infections, which can be caused by bacteria, yeast or parasites.
7. Heart disease: Various forms of heart disease are common in certain dog breeds, including myocardial disease and valvular disease.
8. Urinary tract infections: Urinary tract infections in dogs can cause symptoms such as frequent urination, blood in the urine, and discomfort while urinating.

It is important for dog owners to have their dog regularly examined by a veterinarian and watch for signs of illness to ensure any health problems can be identified and treated early.

Hereditary diseases of dogs: summary

Canine hereditary diseases are genetic health problems that pose a major challenge to both veterinarians and dog owners. They can cause a range of different symptoms and lead to serious health problems.

Hereditary diseases of dogs can affect many different organ systems, from neurological and cardiological to dermatological and gastroenterological diseases. They are often specific to certain breeds of dogs, although mixed breeds can also be affected.

Diagnosing dog hereditary diseases can be challenging because many of these diseases can present with similar symptoms. Diagnostic methods can range from clinical examinations and laboratory tests to genetic testing and imaging.

The treatment of hereditary diseases in dogs can also be complex and often requires individual therapy. In some cases, drug treatments can relieve symptoms, while in others surgery may be necessary. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for many of these diseases.

The prevention of hereditary diseases in dogs is an important aspect of dog breeding. Through genetic testing, breeders can determine whether their dogs are carriers of specific inherited diseases and make targeted breeding decisions to minimize the risk of passing on these diseases.

The understanding of hereditary diseases in dogs has made significant progress in recent decades and research in this area is active. It is hoped that future breakthroughs in genetics and molecular biology will enable new treatments and strategies to prevent hereditary diseases in dogs.

Finally, educating dog owners and breeders about hereditary diseases in dogs is crucial. By being aware of these diseases, dog owners can make informed decisions about their pets' health care and help reduce the risk of spreading these diseases.

Overall, hereditary diseases of dogs are a complex and challenging field that deserves attention in both veterinary medicine and dog breeding. With continued research and education, we can hope to reduce the impact of these diseases on the health and well-being of our dogs.

Literature on hereditary diseases in dogs

With regard to the topic of hereditary diseases in dogs, there are a number of important specialist books and scientific publications that provide further information and detailed studies. Here are some examples:

1. "Canine and Feline Genetics and Genomics: A Practical Guide" by Pedersen, Niels C. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the genetics and genomics of dogs and cats, including a section on inherited diseases.
2. "Genetics of the Dog" by Elaine Ostrander and Anatoly Ruvinsky. This publication is a standard work in canine genetics and covers a wide range of topics, including the genetics of inherited diseases.
3. "Inherited Disorders of Dogs: With Veterinary and Counseling Aspects" by David Sargan. This book provides a detailed overview of a variety of hereditary diseases in dogs and also deals with the veterinary and advisory aspects of these diseases.
4. "The Dog: Its Behavior, Nutrition, and Health" by Linda P. Case. This book includes a chapter on genetic diseases in dogs and provides a comprehensive overview of many aspects of canine health and nutrition.
5. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology is an open access journal that publishes original research and reviews on the genetics and epidemiology of canine diseases, including inherited diseases.

Please note that all of these resources are written in English. Although there are some good resources in German, the vast majority of literature on this topic is in English. Therefore, it can be helpful to have knowledge of English to have access to the latest research and specialist information.