Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects (Discovered in the Miniature Dachshund)

Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects is a syndrome associated with a variation in the MYO5A gene leading to neurologic and dermatologic changes. Affected puppies may have lighter coat colors and display neurologic abnormalities at birth or within the first few weeks of life. Neurologic signs may include the inability to keep their heads upright, trouble holding a stable upright position, inability to stand or walk, and atypical puppy behavior (such as not whimpering when separated from a group and not seeking littermates).

Upon initial observation of clinical signs, affected dogs should be closely monitored to assess welfare, such as ability to nurse and risk of injury by mother or littermates. Due to the severity of neurologic deficits, the prognosis is considered poor and euthanasia may be considered based on welfare concerns.

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 disorder is autosomal recessive, meaning two copies of the variant are needed for a dog to be at an elevated risk for being diagnosed with the condition. A carrier dog with one copy of the Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects (Discovered in the Miniature Dachshund) variant can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects (Discovered in the Miniature Dachshund) variant. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the variant. 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 disorder signs similar to the ones associated with the Coat Color Dilution and Neurological Defects variant could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.