1628: The Genetics of Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy in the Weimaraner

Grant Amount: $10,000

John Angles, BVSc; University of California, Davis

October 26, 1998 - October 25, 1999

Sponsor(s):

Breed(s): German Shepherd Dog, Weimaraner

Research Program Area: Musculoskeletal Conditions and Disease

Project Summary

This study�s data indicate that Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) in the Weimaraner is an autosomal recessive disease (affected pups receive a copy of the mutated gene from each parent). The researchers collected DNA samples from extended families, which should provide the groundwork for the discovery of a marker that will allow for HOD carrier detection and the eventual elimination of this disease from the breed. HOD is a common disease in rapidly growing, large and giant purebred dogs. The Weimaraner has an unusual form of the disease typically seen between 8 to 16 weeks of age, with severe systemic manifestations, including fever and multiple body organ inflammation. Unlike most breeds, these dogs often require treatment with prednisone to prevent death. Using survey data, the researchers in this study noted a strong association between HOD and recent vaccination, with over 70 percent of affected Weimaraners vaccinated in the preceding 3 to 5 days.

Publication(s)

None at this time.