Canine Genetic Diseases

Genetic diseases are caused by abnormalities in dogs' genes. Many different diseases occur when a dam, a sire or both parents pass incorrect genetic coding to their puppies through faulty breeding practices. These conditions can range in severity and they are emotionally wrenching and financially draining to a pet owner.

  1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

    • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a genetic disease that affects the eyes. The disorder occurs in nearly every breed, according to the Animal Eye Care website, but it particularly affects bull mastiffs and Old English mastiffs. Male samoyeds and Siberian huskies are also prone to developing PRA. Progressive retinal atrophy literally means that the retina wastes away. This condition causes slow and gradual vision loss. Dogs with PRA lose their night vision first. The eyes worsen as the disease progresses until the animal is completely blind. Fortunately, the condition is painless and dogs generally adjust well to sight loss.

    Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)

    • Canine intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) is a disorder that primarily affects dachshunds, but other breeds that have long bodies and short legs, like corgis, some Shih Tzus and basset hounds, are affected as well. These dogs are chondrodystrophoid breeds because their body structure is caused by a physical deformity, according to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database.

      IVDD occurs when one of the vertebral disks that are between the dog's spinal vertebrae ruptures. The disks are filled with a soft gluey material, and the rupture causes the inner material to leak out and press against the spinal column. This causes sharp pain in the neck or back. It results in paralysis in more serious cases. IVDD can be treated with surgery, but the veterinarian must perform the operation within 24 hours after diagnosis or the paralysis is likely to become permanent.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia is a degenerative inherited disease that mainly affects large and giant breed dogs. Pet Education explains that great Danes, Saint Bernards and German shepherds are at high risk for developing the disease, as well as Labrador and golden retrievers. The condition occurs when the ball and socket of the hip do not fit together correctly. The symptoms can be seen in dogs as young as five months old. Dogs with this disease walk with an irregular or uneven gait. They sometimes have trouble going up or down staircases and may be hesitant to stand up after lying down. The condition eventually deteriorates into osteoarthritis, a debilitating condition characterized by chronic pain and swelling in the joints. Hip dysplasia is treated through weight management and low-impact exercise. Severe cases might correct with surgery.