Scientists have discovered a DNA mutation linked to breathing problems in popular dog breeds.
Breathing difficulties are most often associated with flat-faced breeds, such as French bull dogs and pugs, but scientists have found the mutation is also carried by Norwich terriers, which have proportional noses.
The finding could inform future genetic tests that could help vets identify animals at risk, and help breeders avoid producing affected pups.
Health problem
French bulldogs are the most popular dog breed in the UK but underneath their prized features can lie a life-threatening health problem.
The breed – and others such as English bulldogs and pugs – is commonly affected by a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome – or BOAS – which leaves dogs gasping for breath.
DNA Mutation
Scientists had thought their short faces were the only explanation for their breathing problems, however, Norwich terriers suffer from a similar breathing problem called Upper Airway Syndrome, despite having proportional noses.
A team led by The Roslin Institute analysed DNA from more than 400 Norwich terriers.
Vets also carried out clinical examinations of the dogs to check their airways for signs of disease.
The researchers pinpointed a DNA mutation in a gene called ADAMTS3, which is not linked to skull shape and has previously been found to cause fluid retention and swelling.
The mutated version of the gene was also common in French and English bulldogs, which may help to explain why some dogs of these breeds develop breathing problems and complications after surgery to treat them.
Fluid retention
Researchers say their findings shift our understanding of breathing problems in dogs. They suggest fluid retention in the tissue that lines the airways could make it more likely that dogs with the mutation will develop breathing problems.
The study, published in PLOS Genetics, ... follow the link to read the article in full on the University of Edinburgh website