New testing scheme for ‘shaking puppy syndrome’
Affected dogs show severe terrors, mostly in the hind limbs.
Border terrier breeders are being encouraged to make use of a new test for ‘shaking puppy syndrome’.
Spongiform LeucoEncephaloMyelopathy (SLEM) is a hereditary disease that can affect puppies from the time they begin attempting to walk. Affected dogs show severe terrors, mostly in the hind limbs.
Scientists at the University of Missouri, the Animal Health Trust (AHT) and Wisdom Health, were able to identify the mutation responsible.
The Kennel Club has approved the official new testing scheme after consultation with the breed health co-ordinator. Secretary Caroline Kisko said the test will help breeders to eradicate the disease, also known as ‘shaking puppy syndrome’ in the breed.
“We would encourage all breeders of border terriers to make use of this new test,” she added.
Dr Cathryn Mellersh, head of canine genetics at the AHT, said: “My team were able to supply a number of DNA samples from affected cases in the UK, which helped to confirm that the mutation discovered in the US is the same mutation segregating in affected border terriers in the UK.
“It can be very difficult to identify the gene linked to an emerging neurological disease such as this, but the result is fantastic and we are very pleased to be able to quickly offer the DNA test at the AHT for the UK and European market.”
The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.
