GM1 Gangliosidosis (Discovered in the Shiba)

Gangliosidosis is characterized by progressive neuromuscular degeneration. Clinical signs are typically observable by two months of age and become clearly apparent by 7 months of age. Clinical signs include vision impairment, head tremor, involuntary eye movements, limb weakness with difficulties in walking/balancing, fatigue, and loss of appetite. There is currently no treatment available.

Upon initial observation of clinical signs, affected dogs should be closely monitored to assess welfare and devise a supportive care treatment plan. Due to the progressive nature of the disease, affected dogs are often euthanized for welfare reasons by 1 year of age.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to develop. A carrier dog with one copy of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected puppies. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.