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LATE ONSET ATAXIA (LOA)
Affected dogs begin showing signs of cerebellar ataxia (loss of muscle coordination leading to an altered gait and loss of balance) between 6 and 1 year of age. The coordination difficulties become more severe and the affected dogs are often euthanized by 2 years of age due to poor quality of life.
Interpreting DNA test results for LOA
Clear dogs have no copies of the mutant gene responsible for the condition and will neither develop the condition nor pass the gene on to their offspring.
Carrier dogs have one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene; they will not develop the condition, but will pass a mutant gene on to approximately half of their offspring.
Affected dogs have two copies of the mutant gene that causes the condition and will develop the disease.
Information provided by Dr Sarah Broadberry – Kennel Club Breed Health Representative
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