DNA Test Developed for Greyhound Polyneuropathy

It begins slightly in greyhound puppies destined for the show ring - a reluctance to put weight on one leg, another leg giving out suddenly and strange new ways of walking. Then the puppy begins to hop like a rabbit because the hind legs seem locked together. Eventually, the puppy becomes paralyzed in all four legs and needs to be euthanized. This is greyhound polyneuropathy and there is no cure.

But now there is a new DNA test available from VetNostic Laboratories to greyhound breeders so that carriers can be removed from all breeding programs. Although polyneuropathy has been documented in purebred Rottweilers, it is a slightly different type than what affects greyhounds and has different genetic mutations. The test will not produce accurate results for Rottweilers.

Test Specifics

The saliva test costs about $65 ( US), but discounts have been given to greyhound breeder clubs in order for as many breeding animals to be tested as soon as possible. Test kits include a cheek swab (similar to a human ear swab). The test takes about 10 business days to complete. Results can be viewed on VetNostic's website. These results are only available for a vet or greyhound owner that registers with VetNostic. They are not available for public display.

If the dog is clear, then a certificate is issued proving that the DNA test was performed. This is another reason why greyhound puppies should never be purchased from pet stores, which get their puppies from puppy mills. Anyone looking for a greyhound show dog should ask their breeders if the parents of the potential puppies have taken this test. The Greyhound Club of America has urged all greyhound breeders to get tests for all of their dogs.

What About Carriers?

Carrier greyhounds can live long, happy lives without ever developing the disease. Getting neutered or spayed may also raise their chances of living longer lives because the chances for developing potentially deadly infections like pyometra or cancer of the reproductive organs are removed. Neutered dogs also are less prone to wander and get into accidents while looking for love.

But inevitably some newly neutered greyhounds will be dumped at animal rescue shelters or greyhound adoption charities. Greyhounds make fantastic pets as they spend most of the day sleeping. They do need two walks per day - morning and evening - and ideally should have a fenced in yard to race about in. Greyhounds are sight hounds, which mean if they see something interesting (such as a taunting squirrel) they will dash off to check it out.

References

"Genetic Connection: A Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs (2^nd Edition)." Lowell Ackerman. American Animal Hospital Association; 2011.

Dogchannel.com. "DNA Tests for Diseases in Terriers and Greyhounds." November 7, 2011. http://www.dogchannel.com/dog-news/2011/11/07/dna-tests-for-diseases-in-terriers-and-greyhounds.aspx

VetNostic Laboratories. "Greyhound Polyneuropathy." https://www.vetnostic.com/vetcart/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=66

Greyhound Club of America. "Greyhound Hereditary Neuropathy." Dr, Barbara Kessler. http://www.greyhoundclubofamerica.org/documents/JournalPaper-NeuropathyDNA_000.pdf