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Hip Dysplasia
Is essentially a malformation of the hip joint that has a heritability of about 25 - 60%, depending on the breed. In other words it is genetic but environment can make a difference to its development. This malformation results in a loose joint that subsequently becomes arthritic because of this looseness. There are degrees of malformation & the greater the looseness of the joint, the greater & earlier the arthritis.
Controlled breeding programs offer the only means by which the incidence can be reduced. Only dogs with good hips as determined by hip x-ray should be bred from, however, pups from x-ray cleared parents can still be affected, although the likelihood is reduced. Prospective buyers should make certain both parents of the pup have been x-rayed and passed for hip dysplasia before choosing a pup.
Chondrodysplasia (Dwarfism)
Is a condition where all the bones in the body do not grow correctly & the dog can become stunted & often has deformed legs, affects bone development and growth. The mode of inheritance is simple autosomal recessive, meaning that both parents of an affected animal must carry the gene, but may not be affected. The symptoms are shortened, deformed front legs with a downhill posture. Diagnosis by radiographic examination is fairly reliable before the age of three months.
Hemeralopia (Dayblindness)
Is a condition that results in affected dogs being unable to see during day but with good vision at night & in half-darkness, such as at dusk. Also known as Cone Degeneration. It is especially noticeable when the dog is exposed to unfamiliar surroundings in bright light, otherwise it can easily be overlooked. Mode of inheritance is simple autosomal recessive, meaning that both parents of an affected animal must carry the gene, but may not be affected. Affected pups may appear clumsy in bright light, stumbling over obstacles, feeling their way with their nose and paws and are unable to catch an object thrown to them. These symptoms disappear in dim light.
Hypothyroidism
A hormonal disorder arising from deficient production of metabolic hormones by the Thyroid Gland. The most common sign is lethargy, but symptoms may also include dry, coarse and sparse coat and obesity. Diagnosis is made by a blood test. Successful treatment of this condition requires an adequate level of hormone to be given each day to compensate for the deficiency in secretion.
Epilepsy
A functional disorder of the brain characterised by symptoms related to the nervous system including convulsions, hysteria and unusual behaviour patterns. Epilepsy can be due to parasites, exposure to toxic chemicals or hereditary factors. The clinical signs may include the dog convulsing, with or without loss of consciousness, and may be followed by drowsiness and disorientation for several minutes after the attack. Dogs which have suffered an attack will appear very tired afterward and will need to be rested. Medication can be dispensed during stressful times to help prevent an attack.
Gastric Torsion & Dilatation ( Bloat)
This condition can occur in any breed of dog at any age, but is more prevalent amongst large, deep chested breeds such as the Alaskan Malamute. Bloat results from the dog's inability to pass food through the stomach into the lower intestines and, in cases of torsion (twisting) of the stomach, inability to vomit. The symptoms appear shortly after the dog has eaten and may include distension of the abdomen, restlessness, excessive salivation, unproductive attempts to vomit and reluctance to move or lie down. The situation worsens rapidly with the dog going into shock, indicated by pale mucous membranes, rapid heartbeat and weak pulse. Death is rapid and painful. Suspected cases must be taken immediately to a veterinarian for urgent treatment. Studies have indicated that overeating, swallowing large amounts of air whilst eating (gulping) and exercising shortly before or after eating may predispose a dog to this condition.
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