Immune System Disorders in Dogs

Immune deficiency in dogs is caused by hereditary flaws that destroy an animal's ability to fight disease. In dogs, immunodeficiency problems are linked to specific breeds. Purebred dogs bear increased risk due to inbreeding that is common for preserving desired traits and bloodlines. Learn about the symptoms, specific breeds of dogs that are prone to immunodeficiency disease and precautions for adopting a puppy.

Canine Immunodeficiency Syndromes

Dogs can fall victim to immunodeficiency syndromes that are typically found in specific breeds. These include:

X-Linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (XSCID): Basset Hounds, Corgis and Dachshunds

Selective Immunodeficiency of Immunoglobin A (IgA): Beagles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, English Bull Terriers, German Shepherds, Irish Wolfhounds, Rottweilers and Weimaraners

Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD): Irish setters, and red-and-white setters

Pelger-Huet Anomoly: Basenjis and Boston Terriers

Symptoms Widely Variable

Immunodeficiency disorders inhibit a dog's ability to defend against disease pathogens; many succumb to secondary infections including distemper and parvovirus. Symptoms include respiratory problems, digestive disorders and overall failure to thrive. Affected dogs may become ill after routine vaccinations are given, as their bodies cannot neutralize the small amount of infectious agent used in the vaccine.

Heredity and Gender

X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (XSCID) is a gender-linked immunodeficiency disorder affecting dogs. Male dogs inherit the gene for XSCID from one of their mother's X chromosomes. Females are carriers, but do not exhibit signs of the disorder.

No Cure Available

Sadly, there is no cure for immunodeficiency disorders. Researchers have attempted stem-cell transplants to correct XSCID in dogs, but this procedure is not available commercially. Dogs with immunodeficiency
disorders typically succumb to infection prior to reaching two years of age.

Genetic Screening

The occurrence of immunodeficiency syndromes within specific dog
breeds offers potential for genetic screening. Breeders are encouraged to avoid breeding animals suspected of carrying or presenting an immunodeficiency syndrome.

Resources

• Genetic Diseases Affecting Immune System
• Immunodeficiency in the Dog