Spinocerebellar Ataxia (Late-Onset Ataxia)

Clinical signs of this condition are usually first detected when the puppy is between 6 and 12 months of age. The first observable sign of spinocerebellar ataxia is lack of muscle coordination, particularly evident in the pelvic limbs, and there may be a swaying gait observed. These dogs tend to have trouble climbing stairs and jumping. They may also exhibit hypermetria and loss of balance. The condition is progressive in the initial weeks but then tends to reach a degree of stabilization. However, intermittent worsening may occur. Affected dogs are often euthanized due to difficulties walking.

Depending on the severity of the clinical signs, a dog can be supported to reduce the likelihood of injury when moving around. Stairs may pose a particular risk and should be avoided.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to occur. A carrier dog with one copy of the LOA mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the LOA mutation. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the LOA mutation. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected puppies. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the LOA mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.