Health Testing - What I Test For and Why
More and more information has become available to breeders over the years regarding genetic diseases in different breeds. Greyhounds are generally hardy and long-lived dogs, but as with all dogs, there are still inherited issues that have been identified in the breed.
While health testing cannot prevent every possible health issue that may arise (every living creature will encounter some kind of unanticipated health issue at least once in their life) it enables me to guarantee I am doing all that I can to produce the healthiest pups possible.
All dogs used in my breeding program, whether they are my own or from an outside kennel, will receive an AVCO eye exam, OFA heart auscultation, thyroid blood panel, and genetic test for Greyhound Polyneuropathy (at minimum) before I will allow them to be bred. These are the most common issues in the Greyhound, and the Greyhound Club of America recommends all dogs be cleared of these issues before breeding.
For my own dogs, I have the eyes, heart, patellas, teeth, and thyroid tested and certified clear of abnormalities with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). My dogs are also genetically tested for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage (DEPOH), Greyhound Polyneuropathy (GHPN), Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK), Malignant Hyperthermia (MH), Von Willebrand's Disease (vWD), and X-Linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy (XLPRA).
I thoroughly research the pedigrees behind each of my dogs before breeding, and my dogs are tested through Embark for their genetic COI (coefficient of inbreeding) in order to ensure that the parents of each litter are unrelated enough to maintain a high level of genetic diversity. (In general the closer to 0%, the better.) Greyhounds have one of the most genetically diverse and least-inbred populations of any purebred dog on Earth, with COIs in a 10+ generation pedigree commonly ranging from 0-5% in racing lines and 15-25% or more in conformation-bred lines. (Genetic COI is more accurate and almost always higher than what can be calculated from a written pedigree, which is why I always test for it.) My goal is to always be below that average by as much as I can in order to help preserve the enormous and varied gene pool of this ancient breed, and each of my dogs' genetic COI percentage is listed on their pages.
All test results will be listed here on my website as well as on the OFA's website or, for the genetic tests, on the website of the lab which performed them.
Below is a list of the conditions I test for in my dogs, along with a bit of information about each one. Some conditions, such as epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, or cancer, are believed to have a hereditary factor but don't yet have genetic tests available. Dogs affected with these conditions should not be bred from, and relatives of affective dogs, if bred, should have all offspring screened very carefully.
NOTE: Greyhounds - and sighthounds in general - have an incredibly low incidence of hip dysplasia compared to dogs of all other breeds (only 0.7% among all Greys tested to date, many of whom were only tested because they were already symptomatic), and to date there is no record of elbow dysplasia or luxating patella ever being found in Greyhounds. As a result, these tests are deemed unnecessary unless the dog is experiencing joint pain or mobility issues that cannot be explained by injury. (My own dogs are tested for luxating patella during their routine vet exams prior to being allowed to course, but this is a personal choice and not the norm.)
Other conditions such as pannus or Bald Thigh Syndrome can be hereditary but don't shorten or affect the dog's quality of life in any significant way. While affected dogs should be noted, the decision of whether or not to breed them should be made on a case-by-case basis. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask me!
While health testing cannot prevent every possible health issue that may arise (every living creature will encounter some kind of unanticipated health issue at least once in their life) it enables me to guarantee I am doing all that I can to produce the healthiest pups possible.
All dogs used in my breeding program, whether they are my own or from an outside kennel, will receive an AVCO eye exam, OFA heart auscultation, thyroid blood panel, and genetic test for Greyhound Polyneuropathy (at minimum) before I will allow them to be bred. These are the most common issues in the Greyhound, and the Greyhound Club of America recommends all dogs be cleared of these issues before breeding.
For my own dogs, I have the eyes, heart, patellas, teeth, and thyroid tested and certified clear of abnormalities with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). My dogs are also genetically tested for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage (DEPOH), Greyhound Polyneuropathy (GHPN), Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK), Malignant Hyperthermia (MH), Von Willebrand's Disease (vWD), and X-Linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy (XLPRA).
I thoroughly research the pedigrees behind each of my dogs before breeding, and my dogs are tested through Embark for their genetic COI (coefficient of inbreeding) in order to ensure that the parents of each litter are unrelated enough to maintain a high level of genetic diversity. (In general the closer to 0%, the better.) Greyhounds have one of the most genetically diverse and least-inbred populations of any purebred dog on Earth, with COIs in a 10+ generation pedigree commonly ranging from 0-5% in racing lines and 15-25% or more in conformation-bred lines. (Genetic COI is more accurate and almost always higher than what can be calculated from a written pedigree, which is why I always test for it.) My goal is to always be below that average by as much as I can in order to help preserve the enormous and varied gene pool of this ancient breed, and each of my dogs' genetic COI percentage is listed on their pages.
All test results will be listed here on my website as well as on the OFA's website or, for the genetic tests, on the website of the lab which performed them.
Below is a list of the conditions I test for in my dogs, along with a bit of information about each one. Some conditions, such as epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, or cancer, are believed to have a hereditary factor but don't yet have genetic tests available. Dogs affected with these conditions should not be bred from, and relatives of affective dogs, if bred, should have all offspring screened very carefully.
NOTE: Greyhounds - and sighthounds in general - have an incredibly low incidence of hip dysplasia compared to dogs of all other breeds (only 0.7% among all Greys tested to date, many of whom were only tested because they were already symptomatic), and to date there is no record of elbow dysplasia or luxating patella ever being found in Greyhounds. As a result, these tests are deemed unnecessary unless the dog is experiencing joint pain or mobility issues that cannot be explained by injury. (My own dogs are tested for luxating patella during their routine vet exams prior to being allowed to course, but this is a personal choice and not the norm.)
Other conditions such as pannus or Bald Thigh Syndrome can be hereditary but don't shorten or affect the dog's quality of life in any significant way. While affected dogs should be noted, the decision of whether or not to breed them should be made on a case-by-case basis. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask me!
1. Juvenile Cataracts– Although not extremely prevalent, juvenile cataracts can sometimes be encountered in dogs of all breeds. The lens of the dog’s eye develops a thickened, cloudy spot (a cataract), which can range in severity from having no effect on the dog’s vision to resulting in near-blindness. Cataracts can be found in one or both eyes and vary in size from a small, barely visible pinprick only detectable during an eye exam to a cloudiness that covers the entire lens, making the dog’s vision all but useless. For a Greyhound, which is a Sighthound that, as the name suggests, hunts primarily by sight, any genetic issue affecting the dog's vision is extremely detrimental. Dogs with juvenile cataracts should never be bred from, as this is believed to be a hereditary condition. (Cataracts which occur in old age are not believed to be hereditary and can happen to any dog of any breed for a variety of reasons.)
Age of onset varies but is usually between 6-18 months, with some being detected as late as 2-3 years. There is unfortunately no genetic test available for cataracts at this time; the only tool available for breeders is to have their dogs examined annually starting at 12 months of age, for the duration of their show and breeding careers, and avoiding breeding any dogs found to have cataracts. Thankfully the disease does not cause pain, so the prognosis for an affected dog maintaining a high quality of life is great.
Dogs can have their eyes examined at any point in their life, but results are not considered “official” until the dog is at least 12 months of age. An eye exam must be performed by a specialized canine ophthalmologist, and a copy of the report is sent to the OFA for registration. Results are recorded as Normal/Clear (Passing) or will list an eye disorder if one is discovered (Failing).
Age of onset varies but is usually between 6-18 months, with some being detected as late as 2-3 years. There is unfortunately no genetic test available for cataracts at this time; the only tool available for breeders is to have their dogs examined annually starting at 12 months of age, for the duration of their show and breeding careers, and avoiding breeding any dogs found to have cataracts. Thankfully the disease does not cause pain, so the prognosis for an affected dog maintaining a high quality of life is great.
Dogs can have their eyes examined at any point in their life, but results are not considered “official” until the dog is at least 12 months of age. An eye exam must be performed by a specialized canine ophthalmologist, and a copy of the report is sent to the OFA for registration. Results are recorded as Normal/Clear (Passing) or will list an eye disorder if one is discovered (Failing).
Cloudy lenses in the dog's eyes due to advanced cataracts.
2. Luxating Patella – Luxating patella, aka “slipping kneecaps,” is an inherited condition that results when the bony groove that sits below the dog’s kneecap is too shallow, allowing the kneecap to slide in and out of place to one side or the other, sometimes even dislocating far enough that it has to be surgically repaired. Some affected dogs show little or no symptoms, while others refuse to walk or cry out when they try to run, jump, or climb on or off of obstacles. Some dogs with the condition stand in a “knock-kneed” position when at rest, with the feet and toes turned outward and the knees turned in toward each other.
Luxating patellas can be surgically corrected by a specialized orthopedic veterinary surgeon, but the procedure is costly and not always successful, as well as being painful and requiring long periods of confinement in a crate or at the veterinarian’s office. Overall, the quality of life without treatment is poor.
Dogs can be tested for this condition starting at 12+ months, after the nearby growth plates have closed. The exam is performed in-office by a veterinarian by manipulating the joint to feel if it slips out of position, and no sedation is required. Patellas are graded as Normal (Passing), or Grade I, II, III, or IV (Failing).
NOTE: There is no reported incidence of luxating patella in Greyhounds to date. I choose to have my own dogs' knees checked because it is a simple and easy test to perform during a routine veterinary exam, and I like to know my dogs aren't going to be having any issues with their knees going out while they're running full-speed after plastic "bunnies."
Luxating patellas can be surgically corrected by a specialized orthopedic veterinary surgeon, but the procedure is costly and not always successful, as well as being painful and requiring long periods of confinement in a crate or at the veterinarian’s office. Overall, the quality of life without treatment is poor.
Dogs can be tested for this condition starting at 12+ months, after the nearby growth plates have closed. The exam is performed in-office by a veterinarian by manipulating the joint to feel if it slips out of position, and no sedation is required. Patellas are graded as Normal (Passing), or Grade I, II, III, or IV (Failing).
NOTE: There is no reported incidence of luxating patella in Greyhounds to date. I choose to have my own dogs' knees checked because it is a simple and easy test to perform during a routine veterinary exam, and I like to know my dogs aren't going to be having any issues with their knees going out while they're running full-speed after plastic "bunnies."
Diagram showing normal knees vs those with luxating patella.
3. Malocclusion and Missing Teeth - Malocclusion is the word used to describe the upper and lower teeth meeting in an abnormal way. Adult dogs and wolves have 42 teeth (puppies have 28), which need to align in a specific way to allow them to eat efficiently - tearing and ripping with the sharp canines and incisors, and grinding and crushing with the premolars and molars. When the teeth do not align correctly, it can cause a range of issues including difficulty eating, reduced bite strength, increased plaque and tartar, broken or damaged teeth, and eventual tooth decay.
There are several variations of malocclusion, including overbites, underbites, and "parrot mouth," which is a severe overbite. This issue is more common in short-faced breeds or toy breeds which have to fit the same 42 teeth into a smaller mouth, but it can happen in Greyhounds as well. Greyhounds should have a "scissors" bite, meaning when the mouth is closed, the upper incisors sit just in front of the lower ones like the blades on a pair of scissors. An "even" bite where the upper and lower incisors are aligned perfectly on top of one another is allowed, but is considered a fault in the show ring, and an underbite or overbite is a severely penalized fault (overbites being more common than underbites in Greyhounds). The alignment of a pup's teeth can be assessed at around 8 weeks. An even bite may correct itself as the dog grows and their jaws change size, and likewise a perfect scissors bite at 8 weeks may become even over time, but generally a pup's bite is a reliable predictor of their adult bite. Misaligned jaws are hereditary, so dogs with malocclusion should never be bred.
Missing or broken teeth are also fairly common in Greyhounds, as is tartar buildup and premature tooth decay; the longer muzzle and elongated mouth make it harder to keep the teeth clean, and Greyhounds require more frequent brushing and dental cleanings than other breeds. Some adult dogs also have one or more teeth which fail to grow in, which can be a concern depending on the number and type of teeth missing. One or two missing teeth are not much of a concern if the rest of the teeth are normal and properly aligned, as this can come from several causes and does not affect quality of life in any way. However, any pups these dogs produce should be monitored to make sure the issue is not continually being passed down.
Dogs can be examined for malocclusion from puppyhood, and the condition is easily visible to an experienced breeder or owner. After about 12 months of age the dog can be evaluated for missing adult teeth. To have dentition results certified by OFA, the dog must have their teeth examined and the report signed off by their veterinarian.
There are several variations of malocclusion, including overbites, underbites, and "parrot mouth," which is a severe overbite. This issue is more common in short-faced breeds or toy breeds which have to fit the same 42 teeth into a smaller mouth, but it can happen in Greyhounds as well. Greyhounds should have a "scissors" bite, meaning when the mouth is closed, the upper incisors sit just in front of the lower ones like the blades on a pair of scissors. An "even" bite where the upper and lower incisors are aligned perfectly on top of one another is allowed, but is considered a fault in the show ring, and an underbite or overbite is a severely penalized fault (overbites being more common than underbites in Greyhounds). The alignment of a pup's teeth can be assessed at around 8 weeks. An even bite may correct itself as the dog grows and their jaws change size, and likewise a perfect scissors bite at 8 weeks may become even over time, but generally a pup's bite is a reliable predictor of their adult bite. Misaligned jaws are hereditary, so dogs with malocclusion should never be bred.
Missing or broken teeth are also fairly common in Greyhounds, as is tartar buildup and premature tooth decay; the longer muzzle and elongated mouth make it harder to keep the teeth clean, and Greyhounds require more frequent brushing and dental cleanings than other breeds. Some adult dogs also have one or more teeth which fail to grow in, which can be a concern depending on the number and type of teeth missing. One or two missing teeth are not much of a concern if the rest of the teeth are normal and properly aligned, as this can come from several causes and does not affect quality of life in any way. However, any pups these dogs produce should be monitored to make sure the issue is not continually being passed down.
Dogs can be examined for malocclusion from puppyhood, and the condition is easily visible to an experienced breeder or owner. After about 12 months of age the dog can be evaluated for missing adult teeth. To have dentition results certified by OFA, the dog must have their teeth examined and the report signed off by their veterinarian.
Diagram of the canine mouth - 20 upper teeth, 22 lower teeth.
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Example of a dog with malocclusion.
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4. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) and Heart Murmur - VSD is a congenital defect that develops in-utero, and causes a hole or "shunt" in between the ventricles (lower two chambers) of the heart. Depending on the size of the hole, it can have varying degrees of impact on the dog's life. Some small VSDs close on their own over time, or stay in place but have no noticeable effect on the dog at any point. Larger, more severe VSDs can cause symptoms of congestive heart failure such as pulmonary congestion, exercise intolerance, low oxygen levels and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Severe VSDs can be corrected surgically, but this is a risky procedure and is not always successful.
There is no genetic test for the condition, and there is not an easily discernible cause for why it appears in some pups and not others. Most dogs with VSD go on to lead perfectly normal lives, but some may require medical management or surgery to preserve their quality of life, so an affected dog should never be bred.
VSD is detectable from birth via auscultation of the heart (examination with a stethoscope), to listen for a holosystolic or crescendo-decrescendo heart murmur. Dogs are either graded Normal (Passing), or if found to have a murmur are graded Abnormal (Failing) and can have further testing performed by a veterinary cardiologist to determine the severity of the defect.
There is no genetic test for the condition, and there is not an easily discernible cause for why it appears in some pups and not others. Most dogs with VSD go on to lead perfectly normal lives, but some may require medical management or surgery to preserve their quality of life, so an affected dog should never be bred.
VSD is detectable from birth via auscultation of the heart (examination with a stethoscope), to listen for a holosystolic or crescendo-decrescendo heart murmur. Dogs are either graded Normal (Passing), or if found to have a murmur are graded Abnormal (Failing) and can have further testing performed by a veterinary cardiologist to determine the severity of the defect.
Graphic displaying an example of a VSD, allowing blood from one ventricle to spill over into the other.
5. Hypothyroidism – Hypothyroidism is a condition resulting from an under-active thyroid gland, slowing down the metabolism and resulting in numerous potential health issues to the dog such as poor coat, lethargy, weight gain, temperamental issues, and reproductive difficulties including reduced fertility or even sterility. The condition is typically diagnosed when a normally active dog begins to act lethargic or gain weight, experiences hair loss or thinning, especially along the back or flanks or develops excessive shedding or scaly skin that was not present before. (Bald thighs and belly are common in Greyhounds and usually due to Bald Thigh Syndrome rather than hypothyroidism.) Hypothyroidism is thankfully easily treatable with fairly inexpensive medication and usually responds well to treatment. However, it is a lifelong condition and is known to be hereditary (except in very rare cases as a result of another illness), so affected dogs should not be bred.
Dogs can be tested for hypothyroidism beginning at 12+ months, using a simple blood test which is sent to a veterinary lab to measure the amount of thyroid hormone in the blood and find out if it falls within the normal range. The thyroid is then graded as either Normal (Passing) or Abnormal (Failing).
Dogs can be tested for hypothyroidism beginning at 12+ months, using a simple blood test which is sent to a veterinary lab to measure the amount of thyroid hormone in the blood and find out if it falls within the normal range. The thyroid is then graded as either Normal (Passing) or Abnormal (Failing).
Dog displaying the thinning, patchy coat and scaly skin that are typical of hypothyroidism.
6. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) – DM is a genetic progressive degeneration of the spinal cord that begins late in the dog’s life, usually between 8-14 years of age. Symptoms can be mild at first, with slight wobbling or weakness in one or both hind legs, and will eventually progress to hind end weakness, knuckling over and walking on the top side of the feet, and eventual inability to move or control the rear end. Dogs who have the disease for a number of years usually develop urinary and fecal incontinence, and with enough time the disease will progress to include front-limb paralysis as well. This condition is thankfully not painful for the dog (the paralysis results in the pain receptors also losing function), so the dog can often still live a good quality life for months or years before the mobility issues become too severe for them to enjoy life anymore. There is a genetic test available for DM, however, so it can be avoided through testing and avoiding breeding of affected dogs.
DM testing is available from birth, and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing).
DM testing is available from birth, and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing).
Weakness and "knuckling over" in the hind limbs caused by DM.
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Weak, "sagging" rear end in a GSD affected with DM.
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7. Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage (DEPOHGEN mutation) – DPH, also known as Greyhound Bleeding Disorder or Greyhound Fibrinolytic Syndrome, is a genetic clotting disorder found in Greyhounds and Scottish Deerhounds. It is believed to affect up to 30% of all Greyhounds. This disorder results from a defect of the SERPINF2 gene which causes severe bleeding beginning 24-36 hours after any kind of trauma (severe bruising, puncture wounds, surgery, etc.) and is often fatal if left untreated. Dogs with 2 defective copies of the gene will require preventive treatment with tranexamic acid (preferred) or aminocaproic acid before and after any surgical procedure in order to prevent excessive blood loss, hematoma and tissue damage at the surgical site. Dogs with 1 defective copy of the gene are unlikely to suffer severe bleeding and usually don't require pre-treatment before surgeries, but should still be monitored afterward for signs of excessive bleeding. Dogs with 2 normal copies of the gene are at no risk for this complication.
Genetic testing for DPH is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs with 0 (Clear) or 1 (Carrier) defective copies of the SERPINF2 gene can safely be bred from, although Carriers should be bred only to Clear dogs, as this will only produce Clear and Carrier pups but never Affected. Dogs with 2 mutant copies (Affected) should ideally not be bred at all, as carrying a pregnancy or undergoing a c-section can be life-threatening. However, if they are bred it should only ever be to a Clear dog, as all pups from that pairing would be Carriers and not Affected.
Genetic testing for DPH is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs with 0 (Clear) or 1 (Carrier) defective copies of the SERPINF2 gene can safely be bred from, although Carriers should be bred only to Clear dogs, as this will only produce Clear and Carrier pups but never Affected. Dogs with 2 mutant copies (Affected) should ideally not be bred at all, as carrying a pregnancy or undergoing a c-section can be life-threatening. However, if they are bred it should only ever be to a Clear dog, as all pups from that pairing would be Carriers and not Affected.
Surgical wound of a Greyhound affected with DPH immediately after surgery (A) and 24 hours post-op (B)
8. Greyhound Polyneuropathy (GHPN) – Greyhound Polyneuropathy is a genetic condition that is caused by a mutation in the NDRG1 gene and causes nerve degeneration, leading to weakness and muscle atrophy. Dogs require 2 defective copies of the gene to be affected, and affected pups usually begin displaying symptoms between 3-4 months of age. The dogs suddenly begin walking abnormally, with a "bunny-hopping" gait and stiffness especially in the rear legs, as well as an arched back and weakness in the hind end.
Within a few weeks they lose muscle mass and eventually become incapable of walking more than a short distance. Muscle atrophy progresses to include all limbs until the dog can no longer stand, and may also paralyze the larynx, preventing barking, and some of the muscles involved in breathing. Most affected dogs are euthanized by 9-13 months of age due to poor quality of life.
Genetic testing for GHPN is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
Within a few weeks they lose muscle mass and eventually become incapable of walking more than a short distance. Muscle atrophy progresses to include all limbs until the dog can no longer stand, and may also paralyze the larynx, preventing barking, and some of the muscles involved in breathing. Most affected dogs are euthanized by 9-13 months of age due to poor quality of life.
Genetic testing for GHPN is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
Dog affected with GHPN. Notice the arched back, rear end muscle atrophy, and unsteady posture.
9. Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK) – Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis is a genetic condition that causes rough, thickened, crusty skin on the nose of affected dogs. The skin can also be prone to cracking, and leaking fluid from the skin can accumulate in the cracks. This condition can predispose the dog to bacterial skin infections on the nose, and the nose may also lose pigment. Severity can increase and decrease at different times throughout the dog's life. Quality of life for affected dogs is good and it doesn't tend to interfere with daily life, but special care does need to be taken to keep the nose moisturized, clean, and free of infection.
Genetic testing for HPNK is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
Genetic testing for HPNK is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
Noses of Greyhounds affected by HNPK
10. Hyperuricosuria (HUU) - Hyperuricosuria is a genetic disease caused by a mutation in the SLC2A9 gene. It is found in many breeds of dogs, the most famous of which is Dalmatians, but also includes Greyhounds and many others. Dogs with HUU produce too much uric acid, which predisposes them to the formation of urate bladder stones. This can cause misery for both dog and owner, as bladder stones and sludge can result in pain, difficulty urinating, incontinence, and can even require multiple surgeries depending on the size, frequency, and number of stones. Stone formation can sometimes be slowed or reduced with dietary changes and medication, but some dogs with recurrent stones are eventually euthanized due to poor quality of life. Males dogs are more susceptible to complications from HUU due to their longer, narrower urethra.
HUU is an autosomal recessive condition, meaning 2 defective copies of the gene are needed to cause symptoms, but not all dogs will show symptoms in their lifetime even with 2 copies. Dogs with 1 defective gene (carriers) can still produce carrier or affected pups when bred to a Carrier or Affected dog.
Genetic testing for HUU is available from birth, and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing).
HUU is an autosomal recessive condition, meaning 2 defective copies of the gene are needed to cause symptoms, but not all dogs will show symptoms in their lifetime even with 2 copies. Dogs with 1 defective gene (carriers) can still produce carrier or affected pups when bred to a Carrier or Affected dog.
Genetic testing for HUU is available from birth, and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing).
Urate stones removed from the bladder of a dog
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A sample of urine filled with urate crystals (the kind caused by HUU)
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11. Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) - Malignant Hyperthermia is a genetic condition found in Greyhounds as well as a handful of other breeds. It is primarily triggered when the dog is put under anesthesia, but can also be brought on by strenuous exercise, extreme stress, or chemicals such as caffeine or hops. When triggered, this condition can cause sudden and dangerously high body temperatures, rigid muscles, rapid irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, cyanosis (blue tinge to skin and mucous membranes), unstable blood pressure, kidney failure, and death. Even when the condition is rapidly diagnosed, the progression is generally too fast to save the dog, and if they do survive it is often with severe complications. Affected dogs are at risk of complications under any kind of anesthesia, and owners should make sure their veterinarian is aware of the condition long before any procedure so all possible preventative measures can be taken.
Genetic testing for MH is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
Genetic testing for MH is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or Affected (Failing). Carrier dogs should only ever be bred to a Clear dog in order to avoid producing Affected pups.
12. Von Willebrand's Disease Type 1 (vWD1) - Von Willebrand's Disease is a genetic bleeding disorder found in both dogs and humans. It is caused by a deficiency of a protein known as the "von Willebrand's Factor" which needed to create platelets and enable blood to clot properly. The variant found in Greyhounds is vWD Type 1, which means affected dogs have a low concentration of the vWD Factor protein but the protein structure itself has a normal structure. (Type 2 and Type 3, which are not found in Greyhounds, have variations in the amount of vWD Factor and protein structure.)
Dogs affected with vWD can be unable to stop bleeding properly, especially during surgery. Some dogs may never display symptoms, while others with severe cases may spontaneously bleed from the mouth, nose, urinary, reproductive, or intestinal tracts. Dewclaw removal or teething may cause excessive bleeding in pups with vWD, and dangerous bleeding may occur after surgery. Dogs with vWD will need to be protected as much as possible from cuts and puncture wounds, and vets should always be made aware of the condition prior to surgery (although most will test for it these days.)
Genetic testing for vWD1 is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing). Clear or Carrier dogs can safely be bred from, although Carriers should be bred only to Clear dogs, as this will only produce Clear and Carrier pups but never Affected. Affected dogs should not be bred at all, as carrying a pregnancy or undergoing a c-section can be life-threatening. However, if they are bred it should only ever be to a Clear dog, as all pups from that pairing would be Carriers and not Affected.
Dogs affected with vWD can be unable to stop bleeding properly, especially during surgery. Some dogs may never display symptoms, while others with severe cases may spontaneously bleed from the mouth, nose, urinary, reproductive, or intestinal tracts. Dewclaw removal or teething may cause excessive bleeding in pups with vWD, and dangerous bleeding may occur after surgery. Dogs with vWD will need to be protected as much as possible from cuts and puncture wounds, and vets should always be made aware of the condition prior to surgery (although most will test for it these days.)
Genetic testing for vWD1 is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear (Passing), Carrier, or At Risk (Failing). Clear or Carrier dogs can safely be bred from, although Carriers should be bred only to Clear dogs, as this will only produce Clear and Carrier pups but never Affected. Affected dogs should not be bred at all, as carrying a pregnancy or undergoing a c-section can be life-threatening. However, if they are bred it should only ever be to a Clear dog, as all pups from that pairing would be Carriers and not Affected.
13. X-Linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy (XL-PRA) - X-Linked PRA is an inherited eye condition that causes partial or complete blindness at an early age due to degeneration of the dog's retina. It is a recessive trait attached to the X chromosome, so a female dog (XX) can be a carrier without displaying symptoms herself. However, since males are XY and carry only one X chromosome, any sons from a carrier mother have a 50/50 chance of being affected themselves, and the gene can lurk undetected in female lines for generations before finally being detected (usually when large numbers of male pups from a certain line begin displaying blindness at young ages.)
In Greyhounds, a test was developed for XL-PRA after the defective gene was traced back to daughters of Kiowa Mon Manny (Flying Penske x Flying Monika K). He was an extremely prolific sire, and many of his grandsons and great-grandsons are affected with XL-PRA, as well as producing many carrier daughters and granddaughters.
We do not know for sure if the gene originated with Kiowa Mon Manny or exists in other lines connected to him, so all Greyhounds, especially those with Manny in their dam line, should be tested. Females will be reported as either Clear, Carrier, or Affected, while males are either Clear or Affected. Affected dogs of either sex and Carrier females should not be used, as half of a Carrier female's sons will statistically be affected by the disease.
Thankfully, now that this test exists, it is much simpler to determine whether or not it exists in any line or individual dog, and breed away from it in the future. The defining feature of a Sighthound is chasing by sight, so it's vital that we protect our Greys' eyes!
In Greyhounds, a test was developed for XL-PRA after the defective gene was traced back to daughters of Kiowa Mon Manny (Flying Penske x Flying Monika K). He was an extremely prolific sire, and many of his grandsons and great-grandsons are affected with XL-PRA, as well as producing many carrier daughters and granddaughters.
We do not know for sure if the gene originated with Kiowa Mon Manny or exists in other lines connected to him, so all Greyhounds, especially those with Manny in their dam line, should be tested. Females will be reported as either Clear, Carrier, or Affected, while males are either Clear or Affected. Affected dogs of either sex and Carrier females should not be used, as half of a Carrier female's sons will statistically be affected by the disease.
Thankfully, now that this test exists, it is much simpler to determine whether or not it exists in any line or individual dog, and breed away from it in the future. The defining feature of a Sighthound is chasing by sight, so it's vital that we protect our Greys' eyes!
Eyes of a dog with PRA
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Normal retina vs retina with PRA
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14. Pannus - Pannus, also known as chronic superficial keratitis, is an autoimmune inflammatory eye condition found in Greyhounds, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, Poodles, and Collies. It is believed to be genetic to at least some degree, although it is also possible that it is at least partially environmental, as sun exposure tends to exacerbate it.
Pannus usually begins in adulthood, around the ages of 2-5 or even older, and is not painful in the early stages. Early symptoms begin with extra pigmentation of the cornea, "freckles" of color in the white of the eye, or a hazy/grayish color on the edge of the eye. Pannus usually affects both eyes at a similar rate. As the condition progresses, the eye may appear pink or gray-tinged with more blood vessels than normal, eventually leading to large lesions across the surface of the eye and, left untreated, eventual blindness.
Once diagnosed, pannus is not curable but it is controllable. Cortisone drops are usually put in the eyes to slow the progression of the condition and avoid flare-ups, and sometimes cyclosporine may also be prescribed. Affected dogs should also be kept out of intense UV light if possible, as this tends to exacerbate the condition. Special "doggles" can be worn to help minimize UV exposure when outside.
There are currently no genetic tests available for pannus, although it is believed to have at least some genetic component and be traceable through certain family lines of dogs. Ideally, affected dogs should not be used in breeding, but as the condition can wait to manifest until 5+ years of age, many affected dogs have already passed on the condition before they are ever diagnosed themselves. The good news is that the condition is very manageable, and dogs with pannus can still lead long, happy, fulfilling lives.
Pannus usually begins in adulthood, around the ages of 2-5 or even older, and is not painful in the early stages. Early symptoms begin with extra pigmentation of the cornea, "freckles" of color in the white of the eye, or a hazy/grayish color on the edge of the eye. Pannus usually affects both eyes at a similar rate. As the condition progresses, the eye may appear pink or gray-tinged with more blood vessels than normal, eventually leading to large lesions across the surface of the eye and, left untreated, eventual blindness.
Once diagnosed, pannus is not curable but it is controllable. Cortisone drops are usually put in the eyes to slow the progression of the condition and avoid flare-ups, and sometimes cyclosporine may also be prescribed. Affected dogs should also be kept out of intense UV light if possible, as this tends to exacerbate the condition. Special "doggles" can be worn to help minimize UV exposure when outside.
There are currently no genetic tests available for pannus, although it is believed to have at least some genetic component and be traceable through certain family lines of dogs. Ideally, affected dogs should not be used in breeding, but as the condition can wait to manifest until 5+ years of age, many affected dogs have already passed on the condition before they are ever diagnosed themselves. The good news is that the condition is very manageable, and dogs with pannus can still lead long, happy, fulfilling lives.
Grayish-blue "cloudiness" on the cornea of a dog with pannus
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Lesions associated with pannus usually form on the outer edge of the eye.
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15. Bald Thigh Syndrome (BTS) - Bald Thigh Syndrome is a genetic condition found in Greyhounds and some other sighthounds which causes hair loss on the backs of the hind legs, sometimes also including the belly, chest, and neck. It is a painless condition and purely cosmetic, although affected dogs may need sunscreen applied to their bare skin in the warmer months and, depending on severity, may need to wear coats or body suits to provide extra warmth in winter. Some nutritional supplements such as flaxseed oil, fish oil, and higher-fat foods have been anecdotally reported to help with hair regrowth, as have some topical products. However, there is no "one size fits all" method, and some dogs will never regrow their hair no matter what products or supplements are used.
Genetic testing for Bald Thigh Syndrome is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear, Carrier, or Affected. Because this is not a condition which harms the dog's health or negatively affects their quality of life, breeding of affected dogs is perfectly acceptable, and while I like to know what genes my dogs carry, Bald Thigh Syndrome is never going too be a make-or-break in my breeding decisions. It can be a frustrating condition for both pet owners and exhibitors to deal with, but a Grey with bald thighs is in no way inferior to one with more hair (and, anecdotally, it's even believed that those with "bald butts" tend to be better racers and chasers!)
Genetic testing for Bald Thigh Syndrome is available from birth and is determined using a genetic sample (either blood or cheek cells) collected and sent to a DNA testing lab. Dogs tested are reported as either Clear, Carrier, or Affected. Because this is not a condition which harms the dog's health or negatively affects their quality of life, breeding of affected dogs is perfectly acceptable, and while I like to know what genes my dogs carry, Bald Thigh Syndrome is never going too be a make-or-break in my breeding decisions. It can be a frustrating condition for both pet owners and exhibitors to deal with, but a Grey with bald thighs is in no way inferior to one with more hair (and, anecdotally, it's even believed that those with "bald butts" tend to be better racers and chasers!)
Greyhound with baldness affecting the legs and belly
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Another Grey with hair loss on the rear legs and underside
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All of my dogs' health test results are listed with OFA and Embark, and Kodivaro is a Good Breeder member on GoodDog.
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