As a dog owner, you may be curious about whether dwarfism occurs in dogs. This article will explore dwarfism in dogs, as well as provide information about what dwarfism is and how it is treated. Keep reading to learn more!
What is and what causes dwarfism in dogs?
Pituitary dwarfism is a rare condition that occurs as a result of a cyst in the pituitary gland, which is a gland located at the base of the brain that produces growth hormone (GH). This cyst results in decreased growth hormone production, leading to dwarfism in dogs. As the cyst resides in the pituitary gland, there are also deficiencies in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and other growth factor hormones.
Dogs with pituitary dwarfism have an inherited genetic condition. German Shepherd and Karelian bear dogs are the most common breeds to exhibit it, which appears to be caused by a genetic abnormality. Other potentially affected breeds include the Weimaraner and spitz.
What are the clinical signs of dwarfism in dogs?
The following are possible clinical signs and physical abnormalities associated with dwarfism in dogs:
- Stunted growth
- Short stature
- Lack of development of adult hair coat
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Cryptorchidism
- Persistent heat (estrus)
- Decreased appetite
- Decreased energy and inactivity
How is pituitary dwarfism diagnosed in dogs?
Pituitary dwarfism in dogs is typically diagnosed based on clinical signs and physical examination. However, additional diagnostic tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, such as:
Blood tests to measure levels of growth hormone and other hormones produced by the pituitary gland. It is also important to evaluate thyroid hormone production as dogs with pituitary dwarfism are also hypothyroid.
What are the treatment options for dogs with pituitary dwarfism?
Treatment typically focuses on addressing the clinical signs and supporting growth and development. The following are possible treatment options:
Growth hormone supplementation - this is administered via subcutaneous injection three times weekly.
Progesterone therapy - Progesterones have the ability to activate the growth hormone gene in canine mammary tissue, which raises the level of growth hormone in the blood. Progesterone therapy can be given orally or by injection every 6 weeks after an initial loading dose.
Thyroid hormone supplementation - If your dog has concurrent hypothyroidism, thyroid supplementation will be necessary.
What you need to know about the treatment for dwarfism in dogs
Since high amounts of growth hormone might cause diabetes mellitus, monitoring hormone and glucose levels is advised. After the start of treatment, irregularities in the hair coat often improve within 6 to 8 weeks. Since pituitary dwarfism is typically diagnosed after the closure of growth plates, the majority of individuals do not experience a gain in height. The prognosis is improved by the therapy, but it is still guarded. Due to the severity of the symptoms, most dogs with pituitary dwarfism that are not treated are euthanized between the ages of 3 and 5 years.
Additionally, because dwarfism in dogs is an inherited disease, affected dogs should not be bred. This will help to prevent the disease from being passed on to future generations. There are genetic tests available for at-risk breeds to help identify carriers of the dwarfism gene.
In summary, dwarfism in dogs is a condition that results from decreased production of growth hormone, typically caused by a cyst in the pituitary gland. It is most commonly seen in German Shepherds and Karelian Bear Dogs and can cause stunted growth, hair loss, alopecia, and other physical abnormalities. Treatment options include growth hormone supplementation, progesterone therapy, and thyroid hormone supplementation. Most dogs with dwarfism do not experience a gain in height, but the prognosis is improved by treatment. As dwarfism is an inherited disease, affected dogs should not be bred to help prevent it from being passed on to future generations.
If you think your dog may be exhibiting signs of dwarfism, it is important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian so that a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can be put in place.