There are various common genetic diseases in today’s purebred Dalmatians. We specifically breed to promote the health and well-being of our Dals while eliminating the genes that can cause those harmful diseases.
LUA (LOW URIC ACID):
WHAT IS IT & WHY DOES IT MATTER?
High uric acid in Dalmatians, or hyperuricosuria, results from a genetic mutation that affects the metabolism of purines, leading to elevated uric acid levels in the urine. This mutation in the SLC2A9 gene was discovered through extensive genetic research, which identified that it causes a defective transport protein responsible for reabsorbing uric acid in the kidneys. Consequently, Dalmatians with this mutation excrete higher levels of uric acid, increasing their risk of developing urate stones in the bladder and kidneys.
The prevalence of this condition in Dalmatians can be traced back to a genetic bottleneck in the breed’s history. Early breeding practices aimed at establishing and maintaining the breed's distinctive spotted coat also inadvertently fixed this genetic mutation in the population. As a result, most purebred Dalmatians carry two copies of this defective recessive gene, making hyperuricosuria a widespread issue in the breed.
Symptoms of hyperuricosuria in Dalmatians include frequent urinary tract infections, hematuria (blood in the urine), dysuria (painful or difficult urination), and in severe cases, complete urinary obstruction due to stone formation. These conditions are not only painful but can also lead to serious complications or even death if not promptly treated.
Breeding Dalmatians that carry the LUA genetic markers is crucial for improving the breed's overall health. By using genetic testing to identify carriers of the mutation, breeders can make informed decisions to pair dogs in a way that reduces the likelihood of passing on this condition. It helps that the LUA gene is dominant, so only one copy is needed to protect a puppy. Our breeding strategy includes crossbreeding with HUA Dalmatians (to preserve the genetic diversity of the breed) using our LUA (Low Uric Acid) Dalmatians that are free of the mutation. This approach helps to decrease the incidence of urate stone formation, ultimately leading to healthier, happier dogs and reducing the medical and emotional burden on their owners.
COPPER STORAGE DISEASE
Copper storage disease, also known as copper toxicosis or copper-associated hepatopathy (CAH), is a genetic condition primarily affecting certain dog breeds, such as Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, and Dalmatians. This disease results from the liver's inability to properly metabolize and excrete copper, leading to excessive copper accumulation in liver cells. Over time, this buildup can cause significant liver damage, inflammation, and eventually liver failure if left untreated. Symptoms often include lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, liver biopsies, and genetic testing. Management of the disease includes dietary modifications to reduce copper intake and medications to help remove excess copper from the liver.
**Flash** A genetic test for CAH is now being offered from two companies: https://embarkvet.com/.../embark-adds-copper-toxicosis.../
MITRAL VALVE DISEASE
Mitral valve disease (MVD) in dogs, also known as myxomatous mitral valve disease or degenerative mitral valve disease, is a common heart condition, especially in small and older breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Dachshunds, but it also is common to Dalmatians. It occurs when the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart, degenerates and becomes thickened and misshapen. This degeneration prevents the valve from closing properly, leading to blood leaking backward into the atrium, known as mitral regurgitation. The exact cause is often related to genetic predisposition and age-related wear, though some veterinarians feel it can be caused to a fetus during gestation. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examinations, chest X-rays, echocardiograms, and electrocardiograms (ECGs). The side effects of MVD can range from no sympthoms at all to coughing, exercise intolerance, fatigue, and more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema), and eventually congestive heart failure if not managed appropriately. Treatment in serious conditions may include medications to manage symptoms and improve heart function, as well as lifestyle changes to reduce stress on the heart.