Welsh Terrier Genetic Diseases

Although Welsh terriers are a relatively healthy breed, it's important to know if the health problem your terrier has could be passed on to her puppies. Even though genetic disorders in dogs can be very serious, the few found in Welsh terriers tend to be mild compared to other dog breeds and can usually be treated.

  1. Lens Luxation

    • Perhaps the most serious of Welsh terrier genetic disorders, lens luxation is the displacement of the lens of the eye. The disorder usually appears in young to middle-aged dogs. Due to the increased pressure in the eye once the lens moves, lens luxation can lead to glaucoma and ultimately blindness, if left untreated.

      In breeds where the condition is hereditary, lens luxation typically occurs in both eyes at the same time or in each eye within a few months of each other. Treatment for lens luxation varies but can include eyedrops, pain medication or surgery.

    Epilepsy

    • Epilepsy in dogs, like in humans, is caused by a problem in the electrical connection between brain cells. A predisposition toward epilepsy can be passed down genetically in certain dog breeds, such as the Welsh terrier.

      Symptoms of an epileptic attack or seizure include a change in behavior, loss of consciousness, muscle spasms or paddling, and uncontrollable urination, defecation or salivation. Seizures usually vary in frequency and length from dog to dog and, if needed, can be treated with medication, like phenobarbital.

    Glaucoma

    • According to the University of Prince Edward Island's Canine Inherited Disorders Database, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in dogs. Due to increased fluid pressure in the eye, glaucoma can cause blindness in fewer than 24 hours in extreme cases, or blindness can happen slowly over weeks or even months, as the pressure builds. When treated promptly, the pressure within the eye can sometimes be reduced before damage to the retina occurs, saving the dog's vision.

      Many different types of glaucoma exist, including open angle, narrow or closed angle, goniodysgenesis and pigmentary. All forms of glaucoma are extremely painful.

    Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

    • Also known as dry eye, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is an eye disease that occurs in dogs when the tear ducts fail to produce tears like they should. Small breeds, like the Welsh terrier, are particularly prone to the condition. If your dog's eyes are often red and he tends to squint, rub his eyes or often exhibits sensitivity to light, KCS may be the problem.

      Frequent eye irritation or infection can be common in dogs with KCS and other corneal issues, such as corneal ulcers, may appear if the condition is left untreated. The usual treatment for KCS is eyedrops.