ARE THERE MEDICAL PROBLEMS COMMON IN THE BREED?
Hypothyroidism and other autoimmune diseases, PRA, seizure disorders, luxating patellas, Legg-Perthes. None of them is rampant but all of these as well as some other genetic maladies have been diagnosed in some. A few bloodlines have a predisposition for leg fractures because of lack of bone density. At this time the IGCA is working with Dr. Acland of Cornell University to try to develop a blood test that will reveal carriers of PRA. In the meantime, although no screening is required for any of the conditions named, the IGCA and other responsible breeders strongly recommend testing for PRA. Responsible breeders also have their dogs checked for Legg-Perthes, luxated patellas, heart irregularities and, if suspected, hypothyroidism. Some veterinary orthopedic specialists claim that bone density can be checked by x-rays, but there is some doubt as to the effectiveness of doing this. The IGCA’s health committee has been working on a study of patterns of heredity in excessive leg breaks but
