Leukodystrophy (Discovered in the Standard Schnauzer)

Leukodystrophy is a neurological disorder affecting the white matter of the central nervous system. Histopathologically, these areas can show a severe reduction of myelin formation and diffuse edema without inflammation. Mild hydrocephalus internus may also be found. Affected puppies can show clinical signs shortly after birth or before the age of 4 weeks. Signs often include a lack of interest in their surroundings, dysphoric vocalization, hypermetric ataxia, intention tremors, head tilt, circling, proprioceptive deficits, seizures and ventral strabismus.

There is no curative treatment for the disorder. And, due to its severe and progressive nature, affected puppies are typically humanely euthanized at a young age based on welfare grounds.

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 disorder is autosomal recessive, meaning two copies of the variant are needed for a dog to be at an elevated risk for being diagnosed with the condition. A carrier dog with one copy of the Leukodystrophy (Discovered in the Standard Schnauzer) variant can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the Leukodystrophy (Discovered in the Standard Schnauzer) variant. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the variant. 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 disorder signs similar to the ones associated with this Leukodystrophy variant could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.