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Smaller dogs come with many built-in benefits — but they also have some problems that come with their small size. Learn what achondraplastic dogs are and what to look for.
Dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes with certain breeds being small and some large – the size of any given breed is largely the result of selective breeding. Not only are some dogs bred to be small, but there are some breeds for which it is actually desirable to have a genetic mutation known as a null. Keep reading to learn more about what is chondrobulcia and how it affects your dog.
What is dysgeusia?
Like humans, dogs are prone to some health problems, some of which affect the bones themselves. Osteochondrodysplasia (or OCD) is a developmental abnormality of bone and cartilage that is characterized by abnormal bone growth and/or bone abnormalities. Achondroplasia is a form of OCD in which the bones fail to grow back to their normal size. This condition is caused by a genetic mutation in the fibroblast growth factor receptor gene, and usually causes a dog to develop abnormally short limbs – which is why the condition is also called dwarfism.
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Although in some cases the rash is a spontaneous genetic mutation, it is actually a desirable trait in some breeds. Some of the most common breeds are:
- Welsh Corgi
- bulldog
- Sky the dog
- dachshund
- basset hound
- Boston terrier
- pug
- Pekingese
- shih tzu
- Hunting dog
In addition to developing short legs, many dogs with achondroplasia also have abnormally large heads, misaligned jaws, crooked teeth, and enlarged joints. Due to the abnormal growth of the bones, these dogs may also have lateral curvature of the limbs or scoliosis of the spine on both sides of the body.
What do you need to know?
While carcinoma is desirable in some dog breeds, it is a major genetic error when it occurs in breeds not mentioned above. Technically, dogs who develop stunted bone growth suffer from chondrosis, but the idea is the same. Some breeds that have a genetic predisposition to this problem include German Shepherds, Norwegian Elk Terriers, Greater Pyrenees, and Alaskan Malamute. Unfortunately, this condition is not always evident at birth, but will become apparent as the dog gets older but develops limbs compared to other dogs.
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Octopus in dogs ranges in severity. In some dogs it may be mild but in very severe cases it can be disabling. Depending on whether or not the condition causes any clinical problems, treatment options are worth considering. In some cases, corrective surgery is an option, but it is usually not the best course of action. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are usually the best treatment for comatose dogs. Modifications to the dog’s lifestyle and exercise habits may also be required.
You should also know that dogs with achondroplasia are more likely to develop arthritis than other breeds – and this is especially true as the dog gets older. Keep in mind as well that these dogs have a higher risk of obesity, partly because of their compact frame and the fact that abnormal legs may interfere with normal exercise. Monitor your dog’s condition closely and report any concerns to your vet.
Although friendliness is normal in the aforementioned dog breeds, it can negatively affect growth and development if it occurs in other dog breeds. If you are concerned about your dog’s growth and development, talk to your vet.
