Disease overview

Osteochondrodysplasia is a bone disease that is caused by defective cartilage and bone development. This can lead to abnormal development of the joints and growth plates in the bone, causing inappropriate skeletal development.

Gene name

SLC13A1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Affected dogs will have disproportional body size, with legs that are much shorter compared to a relatively normal-sized body. This disease may lead to changes in snout length. Dogs may experience joint stiffness when younger that tends to lessen with age.

How is it diagnosed

Osteochondrodysplasia is diagnosed by a veterinarian through a thorough examination that includes an examination of any clinical signs as well as a dog's health history. Laboratory tests and radiographs may be warranted. Genetic testing assists veterinarians with diagnosis and helps breeders identify presence of gene mutation among breeding stock.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Neff MW, Beck JS, Koeman JM, Boguslawski E, Kefene L, Borgman A, Ruhe AL. Partial deletion of the sulfate transporter SLC13A1 is associated with an osteochondrodysplasia in the Miniature Poodle breed. PLoS One. 2012;7(12):e51917. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051917. Epub 2012 Dec 26. PMID: 23300579; PMCID: PMC3530542.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.