Great Dane Genetic Diseases

The Great Dane is one of the largest dog breeds. These dogs were developed in Germany by selectively breeding Irish wolfhounds with English mastiffs. Great Danes usually grow to be between 30 and 34 inches at the shoulder and can weigh between 100 and 200 pounds, according to Web Vet. Their large size makes them susceptible to a number of genetic disorders.

  1. Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia commonly affects large and giant dog breeds. The Great Dane is genetically prone to developing this disorder, as are German shepherds, Saint Bernards and Rottweilers, to name a few. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint does not fit correctly into the hip socket. This often happens because of deformities or malformations in the joint or because the muscles and ligaments are not adequately supporting the joint. The added weight carried by large breed dogs can also impact the severity of the disease. Pet Education notes that dogs as young as 5 months old can begin to demonstrate the symptoms of the disease, such as an altered gait, limping or unwillingness to run and play. The condition is progressive and often leads to degenerative arthritis as the dog ages. The symptoms of hip dysplasia are treated through weight management, low impact exercise and surgery.

    Cardiomyopathy

    • Great Danes are susceptible to acquiring a disease of the heart muscle called cardiomyopathy, according to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database. This disorder affects other giant breed dogs as well. The CIDD explains that there are two types of cardiomyopathy in dogs. In dilated cardiomyopathy the ventricles in the heart are dilated, so they cannot contract. This causes enlargement of the heart muscle. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is less common. The heart increases in size, but the ventricles grow smaller. Cardiomyopathy overworks the heart and eventually leads to congestive heart failure. The symptoms include breathing problems, weight loss, a loss of appetite and an irregular heart rhythm. It is treated using medication to control the heart rhythm abnormalities, as well as by monitoring the dog's diet.

    Wobbler Syndrome

    • Wobbler syndrome can affect Great Danes as young as 3 months old. It is also called cervical vertebral instability. The vertebrae, ligaments and disks in the neck are malformed and the spinal canal narrows. This puts pressure on the spinal cord. The pressure on the neck causes instability in the dog's movements, hence the name "wobbler syndrome." The dog may show signs of weakness or walk with a high-stepped gait. The disease gets worse over time. Anti-inflammatory medications are used to treat the swelling and prevent additional spinal cord damage. Severe cases can be treated through surgery, although the CIDD warns that the risks of complications after surgery are high.