Tag archives: canine bleeding disorder

One of the goals at Paw Print Genetics (PPG) is to add to our large menu of tests whenever we can. New genetic changes found in the dog genome for diseases and traits are published periodically in the medical literature. These publications guide us in developing new tests for our customers.

Among the new tests launched this month are three tests for traits. Two of the tests will identify whether a dog carries for polydactyly, which results in having hind dewclaws. One of the polydactyly variants in the LMBR1 gene will cause hind dewclaws in many different breeds, while the mutation in ALX4 only causes polydactyly in the Great Pyrenees. Both variants are dominant, meaning that one or two copies will result in polydactyly. Interestingly, the mutation for the Great Pyrenees causes double dewclaws, whereas the mutation in LMBR1 causes just single dewclaws.

The third trait launched is for another E locus variant. PPG offers several E locus variants, so it is important to read the description of each before choosing your test. Most breeds will produce a yellow or red coat color when there are two copies of the ‘e’ allele from the common E locus variant.  However ...

Since the first exhibitions of the modern basset hound in the late 19^th century, their mellow and charming personality has made them a popular family dog. Though according to the Basset Hound Club of America, it is not unusual for a basset hound to be a little stubborn or to have “selective hearing” (especially if following a scent trail), this minor annoyance is easily tempered by their affectionate and sensitive disposition. Originally bred for hunting with a person on foot, the basset hound’s short legs kept them from outrunning their handler while following their exceptional nose. Unfortunately, like other purebred dogs, the basset hound has also been unable to outrun susceptibility to certain inherited diseases. One such condition is a disease of blood platelets known as thrombopathia that occurs due to a mutation in the RASGRP1 gene.

Dogs affected with thrombopathia produce a dysfunctional form of a protein important in the aggregation of platelets during blood clotting. The resulting inability to produce functional blood clots leads to easy bruising and frequent episodes of spontaneous bleeding from the gums, nose, and the gastrointestinal tract. Affected dogs may also show signs of lameness due to spontaneous bleeding in joints. Loss of ...

My last blog talked about the basics of two types of inheritance for genetic conditions found in dogs: dominant and recessive.  To review, dominant conditions need one copy of the mutated gene in order for the dog to show symptoms.  Recessive conditions need both copies of the mutated gene inherited from each parent to have the disease.  Knowing the difference can change the way breeders choose which dogs to breed.  However, the wonderful world of genetics is not that simple.  Another pattern of inheritance is called X-linked, or sex-linked.  Although it is not as common as dominant and recessive; it is important to know which diseases follow this inheritance pattern, because it may impact breeding.

Dogs have 39 pairs of chromosomes (humans have 23).  Something dogs and humans have in common is the X and Y chromosomes determine gender.  XX is a female while XY is a male.  Females always give away an X chromosome to their offspring.  So, it is the male that determines gender for the next generation.  If he passes on the X chromosome, the offspring is female.  If he passes on the Y chromosome ...