Dog Diseases Database
Every hereditary and common canine condition — with tests, affected body regions, and the breeds where each shows up most.
Filters
- SevereGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Familial Nephropathy(FN)
Familial Nephropathy (FN) is an inherited kidney disease caused by a genetic defect in collagen, which is a vital structural protein. This defect damages the kidneys' filtering units, preventing them from properly removing waste products from the blood. Over time, this leads to progressive and irreversible kidney failure.
Affects 19 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - HighMouth & teethComplex
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease(LCPD)
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a serious orthopedic condition affecting the hip joint, primarily in small breed dogs. It occurs when the blood supply to the head of the thigh bone, known as the femur, is spontaneously disrupted. Without blood, this bone tissue dies and collapses, leading to severe joint inflammation and pain.
Affects 19 breedsTested via: RadiographView details - HighHeartComplex
Mitral valve dysplasia(MVD)
Mitral valve dysplasia is a congenital heart defect where the mitral valve, which acts as a one-way gate on the left side of the heart, does not form correctly. This malformation prevents the valve from closing tightly, allowing blood to leak backward instead of pumping efficiently to the body. Over time, this leakage strains the heart muscle, which can lead to heart enlargement and eventual heart failure.
Affects 19 breedsTested via: Cardiac examView details - SevereSpineComplex
Cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy(CVCM)
Cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy, commonly known as Wobbler syndrome, is a condition affecting the spine where the spinal cord in the neck becomes pinched. This compression is caused by malformed neck vertebrae or slipping discs between the bones. Over time, the constant pressure damages the nerve pathways that carry signals from the brain to the limbs.
Affects 18 breedsTested via: RadiographView details - ModerateEyesComplex
Third eyelid (nictitating membrane) abnormalities - "cherry eye"
A prolapse of the nictitating membrane gland, commonly called 'cherry eye,' occurs when the tear gland of the third eyelid slips out of its normal position. This gland is responsible for producing a significant portion of the eye's protective tear film. When the connective tissue holding it in place weakens, the gland protrudes, appearing as a red, fleshy mass in the inner corner of the eye.
Affects 18 breedsTested via: Eye examView details - SevereHeartX-linked
Hemophilia
Hemophilia is an inherited blood clotting disorder affecting the circulatory system, where the body lacks specific proteins needed for coagulation, which is the process of blood clotting. Because the blood cannot clot properly, even minor injuries can lead to prolonged internal or external bleeding. This condition is inherited through an X-linked genetic trait, meaning it primarily affects male dogs.
Affects 17 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHead / nervous systemComplex
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition affecting the brain and nervous system, commonly referred to as water on the brain. It occurs when cerebrospinal fluid, the natural protective liquid surrounding the brain, builds up abnormally inside the brain's cavities, known as ventricles. This accumulation creates harmful pressure on the surrounding brain tissue, which can impair normal brain function.
Affects 17 breedsView details - MildGeneral / metabolicComplex
Monorchidism
Monorchidism is a developmental condition of the male reproductive system where only one testicle descends into the scrotum. The second testicle either remains trapped inside the abdomen or groin canal, or it failed to develop entirely during embryonic growth.
Affects 17 breedsTested via: UltrasoundView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures(NEWS)
This is a severe, inherited brain disorder that affects newborn puppies, caused by an autosomal-recessive genetic mutation. It leads to abnormal development and degeneration of the central nervous system, which controls the body's movements and mental functions. Because it is inherited recessively, a puppy must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to be affected.
Affects 17 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - SevereHeartPolygenic
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)(PDA)
Patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart defect where a normal fetal blood vessel connecting the aorta and the pulmonary artery fails to close shortly after birth. This failure allows blood to continuously recirculate through the lungs instead of flowing to the rest of the body, putting severe, permanent strain on the heart muscle. Over time, this volume overload causes the left side of the heart to enlarge and weaken.
Affects 17 breedsTested via: Cardiac examView details - HighSkin & coatAutosomal dominant
Merle coat pattern(M)
The merle coat pattern is caused by an autosomal-dominant mutation in the PMEL gene, which affects pigment-producing cells in the skin, eyes, and inner ears. When a dog inherits two copies of this gene, a condition known as double merle, it disrupts the normal development of these sensory organs. This genetic defect can lead to severe structural abnormalities in both the auditory and visual systems.
Affects 16 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - ModerateGeneral / metabolicComplex
Primary hypothyroidism
Primary hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland, located in the neck, fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. This hormone deficiency is usually caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the gland or by the gradual replacement of thyroid tissue with fat. Because these hormones regulate how the body uses energy, a shortage slows down the dog's entire metabolism.
Affects 16 breedsTested via: Clinical examView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Globoid cell leukodystrophy (galactocerebrosidosis)(GCL)
Globoid cell leukodystrophy is an inherited metabolic disorder affecting the nervous system, caused by a deficiency in an essential enzyme. This deficiency leads to the buildup of harmful substances that destroy myelin, which is the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Without this protective covering, the nerves cannot transmit signals properly, resulting in progressive neurological decline.
Affects 15 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - ModerateMouth & teethComplex
Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra(LTV)
Transitional vertebra, also known as lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV), is a congenital skeletal malformation where a vertebra at the junction of two spinal sections—usually the lower back and the pelvis—develops abnormally, sharing characteristics of both areas. This anatomical variation can cause instability or uneven pressure in the lower spine. It is frequently identified during standard hip dysplasia screening radiographs, which evaluate the same pelvic region.
Affects 15 breedsTested via: RadiographView details - ModerateGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Albinism
Albinism is an inherited condition where the body cannot produce melanin, the natural pigment responsible for coloring the skin, fur, and eyes. This metabolic disruption affects the integumentary system (the skin and coat) as well as the eyes. Without melanin, these tissues lack their normal protective coloration and UV defense.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - HighMouth & teethAutosomal dominant
Chondrodystrophy(CDDY)
Chondrodystrophy is an inherited genetic condition that affects the development of cartilage and bone, leading to shortened limbs. This abnormal growth also causes the cartilage in the spinal discs to harden and degenerate prematurely. This degeneration significantly increases the risk of painful spinal disc herniations, which occur when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - ModerateEyesComplex
Exposure keratopathy syndrome (exophthalmos, lagophthalmos, and/or macroblepharon)(EKS)
This condition involves chronic damage to the cornea, which is the clear protective outer layer of the eye. It occurs when the eyelids cannot fully close to moisten the eye, often due to protruding eyeballs, incomplete eyelid closure, or an abnormally large eyelid opening. Without proper moisture, the delicate surface of the eye becomes dry, inflamed, and vulnerable to injury.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: Eye examView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis(NCL)
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL) is an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the nervous system. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain and eyes are unable to properly recycle cellular waste, leading to a harmful buildup of these materials that permanently damages the tissues.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - HighGeneral / metabolicComplex
Osteochondritis dissecans(OCD)
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a developmental skeletal disorder affecting the joints, where a piece of cartilage fails to turn into bone properly. This abnormal cartilage can crack and detach from the underlying bone, creating a loose flap or fragment that floats in the joint space. This leads to painful inflammation and joint damage, most commonly in the shoulders, elbows, or knees.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: RadiographView details - SevereGeneral / metabolicComplex
Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy(PSS)
This is a neurological condition caused by liver dysfunction, typically occurring when abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver. Because the liver cannot filter toxins from the bloodstream, these harmful substances build up and directly affect the brain. This lack of proper filtration leads to central nervous system dysfunction.
Affects 14 breedsTested via: Clinical exam, UltrasoundView details - HighGeneral / metabolicAutosomal recessive
Cystinuria(Cyst-1a)
Cystinuria is an inherited metabolic disorder affecting the kidneys, where the body fails to reabsorb an amino acid called cystine. Instead of being filtered back into the bloodstream, cystine builds up in the urine. Over time, this high concentration causes the amino acid to crystallize, forming painful stones in the bladder and urinary tract.
Affects 13 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - ModerateEarsComplex
Deafness
Deafness is a partial or complete loss of hearing that affects the nervous system and auditory pathways. It is often hereditary and frequently linked to specific coat pigmentation genes, such as the merle or piebald genes, which can affect the development of the inner ear. This genetic form of deafness results from a lack of pigment cells in the inner ear, leading to the degeneration of vital sensory cells.
Affects 13 breedsView details - SevereHead / nervous systemAutosomal recessive
Cerebellar Ataxia(CA1)
Cerebellar Ataxia is an inherited neurological disorder that affects the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance. Due to an autosomal-recessive genetic mutation, nerve cells in this brain region progressively degenerate. This gradual loss of cells prevents the brain from properly controlling the body's movements.
Affects 12 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - HighSkin & coatAutosomal dominant
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (Cutaneous asthenia)(EDS)
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, also known as cutaneous asthenia, is an inherited connective tissue disorder that affects the skin and joints. It is caused by a genetic defect in collagen, which is the primary structural protein that provides strength and elasticity to tissues. Because of this defect, the skin lacks its normal structural integrity, making it unusually fragile, thin, and loose.
Affects 12 breedsTested via: DNA testView details - HighMouth & teethUnknown
Cranioschisis
Lacunar skull (Lückenschädel) is a congenital developmental defect affecting the skeletal system, specifically the skull. It occurs when the bones of the cranial vault fail to harden or ossify completely, leaving thin spots, depressions, or actual gaps in the bone structure. This defect is often associated with increased pressure within the skull and other brain abnormalities.
Affects 11 breedsView 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.
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