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Genetically based disorders in the Toy and Miniature include:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy a disorder of the eye in which the light cells in the retina wither and die due to insufficient blood supply. the disease progresses Gradually, results in blindness and has no known cure. Its onset in the Poodle is between 5 to 6 years old. The presence of PRA can be detected by ophthalmoscopic examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist. As a result, screening by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation, which maintains a registry of dogs that are certified free of inheritable eye diseases by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, is advisable. This certification must be done annually.
Legg-Calve'-Perthes - a disorder in which non-inflammatory avascular necrosis of the femoral neck and head result in one of both of a young dog's rear leys becoming lame. Irritability and pain are other primary symptoms. Some dogs recover function without treatment, but in severe case surgical removal of the femur head is indicated.
Patella Sub-luxation- or slipped kneecap, a condition in which the patella slides in and out of the groove where it is normally held in place by ligaments. This causes hopping or favoring of the leg until the kneecap slips back into place. In some cases, in can be surgically corrected.
Epilepsy - a neurological disorder marked by recurring seizures that follow episodic, abnormal discharges of electrical impulses by nerve cells in the brain. As in humans, it is controlled with drugs such as phenobarbital or Dilantin.
Hypothyrodism - a condition resulting from an inadequate production of thyroid hormone. Also treated with drug therapy, its symptoms include a coarse, brittle coat that falls out, thickening and discoloration of the skin, lethargy, obesity, mental slowness and irregular heart cycles.
Cryptorchidism - or undescended testicle, a condition in which one or both testicles are retained in the abdominal cavity. Hormone injections, given to stimulate testicular descent, sometimes are successful. When the treatment is unsuccessful, removal of the testicles is recommended because cryptorchid testicles may become cancerous.
The Miniature is also subject to:
Hip Dysplasia - a condition in which the head of the femur fits improperly into the hip joint socket, causing Pain and lameness. Pain killers and/or surgery are the usual treatments. Hip dysplasia screening by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals is recommended
