Osteochondrodysplasia
As a fetus, most of the bones of the body actually start as cartilage models of themselves. Over time, the cartilage is replaced with the bones that you (and your dog) are born with. Dogs affected with osteochondrodysplasia have a mutation in the SLC13A1 gene, which codes for a protein that transports minerals into the developing bone. Defects in this gene disrupt the cartilage to bone transition, leading to inappropriate skeletal development.
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Signs and symptoms
Affected dogs have abnormally short legs but a normal sized body. They can also have changes to their rib cage and an underbite.
Signs are first recognized in puppies. -
Diagnosis
Genetic testing and clinical signs can be used to diagnose this condition.
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Treatment
There is no treatment for this condition.
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What to do if your dog is at risk
Actions
- This is not typically thought of as a painful condition, but you may need to place ramps or stairs to assist these dogs if you want them to sleep on the bed or couch.
- Affected dogs may not walk or stand in a normal position.
- Severely affected puppies may require nursing care. Others may have breathing difficulties due to flattened rib cages.
- Arthritis typically develops because of the skeletal changes.
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Genetic Information
This mutation was first described in Miniature Poodles.
This mutation has an autosomal recessive inheritance, meaning that dogs must have two copies of the mutation in order to show clinical signs.
Gene names:
SLC13A1 ‐ chr
Inheritance type:
recessive
Citations:
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Breeds affected
This health condition affects the following breeds
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