Dog Diseases Database
Every hereditary and common canine condition — with tests, affected body regions, and the breeds where each shows up most.
Filters
- SevereGeneral / metabolicUnknown
Kooikerhondje Kidney Disease(KND)
Kooikerhondje Kidney Disease is a severe condition affecting the renal system, where the functional tissue of the kidneys is progressively destroyed. As this tissue is lost, the kidneys can no longer filter waste products from the blood, eventually leading to chronic kidney failure. The disease occurs specifically in the Kooikerhondje breed.
Affects 1 breedView details - SevereGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (Staffordshire Bull Terrier)(L-2-HGA)
L-2-Hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) is an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the central nervous system. Due to a missing or defective enzyme, a metabolic byproduct called L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid builds up to toxic levels in the brain and spinal cord. This accumulation causes progressive damage to these vital nerve tissues over time.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy, CNTNAP1-related(LPPN3)
This is an inherited neurological disorder caused by a genetic mutation affecting the peripheral nervous system, which controls the muscles and limbs. It leads to progressive laryngeal paralysis, meaning the vocal cords and airway cannot open properly, alongside widespread nerve damage. This combination severely impairs both the dog's ability to breathe and their coordination.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Late-onset spinocerebellar ataxia (LOA), CAPN1-related(LOA)
This is an inherited neurological disorder caused by a genetic mutation in the CAPN1 gene, which leads to progressive damage in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls movement and balance. Without the proper function of this gene, nerve cells in the brainstem and cerebellum degenerate, disrupting the animal's ability to coordinate its limbs. This results in a steady decline in motor control.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereSpineAutosomal recessive
Leukoencephalomyelopathy (LEMP)(LEMP)
Leukoencephalomyelopathy (LEMP) is an inherited neurological disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It causes the progressive breakdown of myelin, which is the protective coating around nerve fibers that helps transmit signals. Without this coating, the dog's central nervous system cannot properly send messages to the rest of the body.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - HighGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Lipid malabsorption, ACSL5-related(ILM)
This is an inherited metabolic disorder of the digestive system, primarily affecting the Australian Kelpie breed, where the intestines cannot properly absorb or process dietary fats. It is caused by a specific genetic deletion involving the ACSL5 gene, which is essential for fat metabolism. Without this functioning gene, the body cannot utilize fats from food, leading to severe nutritional deficiencies.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - UnknownGeneral / metabolic
Lockennachweis (Barbet)
This is not a disease or medical condition, but rather a genetic test used to verify the coat characteristics of the Barbet breed. It identifies the presence of the autosomal-dominant gene variant (KRT71) responsible for the breed's characteristic curly hair structure. Breeding clubs, such as the VBBFL e.V., use this verification to ensure dogs meet breed standards for coat type.
Affects 1 breedView details - ModerateGeneral / metabolicAutosomal dominant
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is an inherited disorder of the lymphatic system, which is the network of vessels responsible for draining excess fluid from body tissues back into the bloodstream. Because these vessels are underdeveloped or malformed, lymph fluid builds up in the tissues instead of draining properly. This accumulation leads to localized swelling, most commonly in the limbs.
Affects 1 breedTested via: Clinical examView details - SevereGeneral / metabolicComplex
Lymphoma(LSA)
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is the network of vessels and organs responsible for filtering fluids and fighting infections. In affected dogs, white blood cells called lymphocytes multiply uncontrollably and accumulate in tissues like the lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow. This disrupts the normal function of the immune system and other vital organs.
Affects 1 breedView details - HighGeneral / metabolicComplex
Mast cell tumor(MCT)
A mast cell tumor is a type of cancer that arises from mast cells, which are specialized white blood cells involved in the body's immune and allergic responses. These tumors most commonly develop in the skin and the tissues just beneath it, though they can occasionally affect internal organs. Because mast cells contain chemical messengers like histamine, the tumors can cause localized inflammation, swelling, or redness.
Affects 1 breedView details - HighGeneral / metabolicComplex
Masticatory muscle myositis (MMM)(MMM)
Masticatory muscle myositis is an autoimmune disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks the specialized muscle fibers used for chewing. This targeted attack causes severe inflammation and swelling in the muscles of the jaw and head. If left untreated, the ongoing inflammation can lead to permanent scarring and loss of muscle tissue.
Affects 1 breedTested via: Clinical examView details - SevereGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Mucopolysaccharidosis I(MPS I)
Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) is an inherited metabolic disorder where the body lacks a specific enzyme needed to break down complex sugar molecules. Without this enzyme, these sugars build up inside cells, causing progressive damage to multiple organ systems, including the bones, joints, and central nervous system.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - MildEyesAutosomal recessive
Multifocal Retinopathy 2 (Coton de Tulear)(CMR2)
This is an inherited eye condition affecting the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It causes small, fluid-filled blisters to form under the retina, leading to localized areas of detachment. Despite these structural changes, the condition is mild and rarely impairs the dog's vision.
Affects 1 breedTested via: Eye exam, DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Multiple system degeneration, SERAC1-related(CMSD)
This is a severe, inherited disorder of the nervous system caused by a genetic mutation in the SERAC1 gene. The mutation disrupts cellular lipid metabolism, which is the process cells use to break down and use fats. This disruption leads to progressive damage to nerve cells in both the brain and the spinal cord.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - MildGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Muscular hypertrophy (double muscling)
This condition is caused by a genetic mutation in the myostatin gene, which normally limits muscle growth. Without this limiting signal, the skeletal muscle system develops excessive, highly pronounced muscle mass. It is inherited in an autosomal-recessive manner, meaning a dog must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to show the physical trait.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Mycobacterium avium complex(MAC)
This is an inherited immune system disorder where a genetic defect prevents the body from fighting off a specific group of common environmental bacteria called the Mycobacterium avium complex. Normally, a healthy dog's immune system easily clears these bacteria, but affected dogs lack this defense, allowing the bacteria to spread and cause widespread infection.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemComplex
Necrotising meningoencephalitis(NME)
Necrotising meningoencephalitis is a severe, progressive inflammatory disease of the brain and its protective outer membranes, known as the meninges. It occurs when the dog's own immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerve tissue, causing tissue death, or necrosis, in the brain. This condition primarily affects the central nervous system of certain small and toy dog breeds.
Affects 1 breedTested via: Clinical examView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuroaxonal dystrophy, PLA2G6-related(NAD)
This is a severe, inherited neurological disorder affecting the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to abnormal swelling in the nerve fibers, known as axons, preventing proper communication between nerve cells. Over time, this swelling leads to the progressive degeneration of nerve tissue.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuroaxonal dystrophy, RNF170-related(NAD)
This is a severe inherited disorder of the nervous system caused by a genetic mutation. It leads to abnormal swellings along the nerve fibers, which disrupt the transmission of signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuroaxonal dystrophy, TECPR2-related(NAD)
This is a severe, inherited nervous system disorder caused by a genetic mutation in the TECPR2 gene. It leads to neuroaxonal dystrophy, a condition where the nerve fibers, or axons, in the brain and spinal cord swell and progressively degenerate. Because these damaged nerve cells cannot properly transmit signals, the dog's neurological function steadily declines.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 4A (American Staffordshire Terrier)(NCL-4A)
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 4A (NCL-A) is an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the nervous system, particularly the brain. It occurs when a genetic mutation prevents cells from breaking down cellular waste products called lipofuscins, leading to a harmful buildup of these fatty pigments. Over time, this accumulation causes progressive damage and destruction of brain cells.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 8 (Saluki)(NCL-8)
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis type 8 (NCL8) is an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the dog's nervous system. It is caused by a genetic mutation that prevents cells from breaking down waste products, leading to a harmful buildup of fatty pigments inside nerve cells. Over time, this accumulation damages and destroys vital brain tissue.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - SevereSkin & coatAutosomal dominant
Nodular dermatofibrosis and renal cystadenocarcinoma(RCND)
This is an inherited condition that affects both the skin and the kidneys. It causes non-cancerous, firm lumps of connective tissue (nodules) to form under the skin, while simultaneously causing fluid-filled sacs (cysts) and cancerous tumors to grow in the kidneys. Over time, these kidney abnormalities damage the organ's ability to filter waste from the blood.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details - MildGeneral / metabolicUnknown
None
This result indicates that no genetic anomalies or physical malformations were detected in the evaluated category. It represents a completely normal finding, meaning the dog's relevant organ systems and anatomical structures are expected to develop and function typically. There are no hereditary defects identified here that would impact the dog's general health.
Affects 1 breedView details - ModerateHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Paroxysmal Dyskinesia(PD)
Paroxysmal dyskinesia is a neurological disorder affecting the brain's motor control pathways, which regulate voluntary movement. During an episode, the brain temporarily fails to control muscle activity correctly, leading to involuntary movements while the dog remains fully conscious. This is an inherited condition passed down in an autosomal-recessive pattern, meaning a puppy must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to be affected.
Affects 1 breedTested via: DNA testView details
Frequently asked questions
What is the HonestDog dog diseases database?
Our database brings together hereditary and common canine conditions with symptoms, inheritance patterns, testing methods, and the breeds where each matters most.
How do I find the right test for a condition?
Search by disease name, abbreviation or symptom, then filter by test type, body region or severity. Each detail page lists recommended tests and affected breeds.
Why do health tests matter for breeders?
Health tests help catch hereditary conditions early and support responsible breeding. Many breed clubs require or recommend specific tests as part of their screening.
Why HonestDog?
What makes HonestDog different from other platforms
Full transparency
We show what's on file: who the breeders are, how they work and which health records they've uploaded. That way you can form your own picture.
Verified breeders, open records
Every breeder on HonestDog has their identity and documents checked before their profile goes live. Health records they upload are shown on the profile, so you can see exactly what has been tested.
Clear vetting criteria
Before a breeder profile goes live, we check identity, club membership or breeding permit, and photos of the breeding environment. HonestDog puts you in touch with the breeder and doesn't sell dogs itself — we can't guarantee any individual dog.
Less hassle, more time
We've already checked the breeders' documents and gathered the details, so you can skip the endless research and focus on finding the right puppy for your family.
Our Mission
We connect dog lovers with responsible breeders and shelters to ensure every dog finds the perfect home.
Founded by dog enthusiasts, our platform focuses on ethical dog breeding and adoption.
About HonestDog
We connect you with vetted breeders and shelters so you can find your new companion with confidence.
Vetted Partners
Only verified breeders and shelters — for a safe start.
Highest Standards
Every animal's health and wellbeing is our top priority.
Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.