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Inherited dog disorders 'more widespread than thought'
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One in six dogs in the study carried at least one of the tested risk variants in their genome. (stock photo)
International team carries out the most comprehensive study yet
 
Inherited disorders in dogs may be more widespread than previously thought, according to a new international study.

Scientists from Genoscoper Laboratories Oy, in Finland, led the research in partnership with the University of Helsinki and the University of Pennsylvania. Their study is the most comprehensive of its kind to date.

The team utilised genetic panel screening to test just under 7,000 purebred dogs across around 230 breeds, for their predisposition to nearly 100 genetic disorders.

According to findings published in PLOS ONE, the researchers found 15 genetic variants known to be linked with disease in 34 dog breeds where they have not previously been documented in peer-reviewed literature.

One in six dogs in the study carried at least one of the tested risk variants in their genome, and one in six of the genetic variants tested were found in dog breeds that had not been reported to carry them before. Furthermore, the team say that several mutations often, but not always, caused the same condition in the additional breeds.

Senior author Dr Hannes Lohi from the University of Helsinki, said: "We noted that surprisingly many canine inherited disorders are actually more widespread than indicated by their original discovery studies, which opens up the door for several future scientific investigations."

Researchers believe their work provides support for the use of DNA multiplex screening for canine hereditary disorders, which represents 'a reliable and powerful discovery and utility tool for applications in veterinary diagnostics, genetic research and sustainable breeding.'

While stressing the importance of complex DNA-based information in progressing the health of purebred dogs, the authors added that this should be used alongside other established approaches.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.