Leonberger
Mandated by Deutscher Club für Leonberger Hunde e.V.
Leonberger Polyneuropathy Type 2 · GJA9 Polyneuropathy · Leonberger-Polyneuropathie Typ 2 · Inherited Polyneuropathy 2
Leonberger Polyneuropathy type 2 (LPN2) is a severe, inherited disease of the nervous system where the peripheral nerves—the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the muscles—gradually degenerate. This degeneration disrupts the vital communication signals between the brain and the muscles, particularly affecting the limbs and the larynx, or voice box. Because it is inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern, a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to be at risk of developing the condition.
Symptoms typically appear between 1 and 10 years of age, starting with changes in the dog's bark, noisy breathing, and weakness or wobbliness in the hind legs. As the disease progresses, owners will notice visible muscle wasting and increasing difficulty with movement.
LPN2 is incurable, requiring lifelong supportive care such as physiotherapy to manage symptoms. In cases of severe respiratory distress, surgery to widen the airway may be necessary, with overall treatment costs typically ranging from €1,000 to €5,000.
More conditions affecting the Head / nervous system.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.