Lethal Acrodermatitis DNA Testing for English Bull Terriers
The English Bull Terrier puppies are known for their distinctive head shape and muscular build, making them a unique and affectionate breed. While they are generally healthy and have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, some hereditary conditions like lethal acrodermatitis (LAD) can severely affect certain dogs, especially white individuals.
LAD is a rare, inherited skin disorder causing painful skin lesions, stunted growth, immune deficiencies, and usually leads to death before the dog reaches two years of age. There is no cure, making prevention through responsible breeding essential.
What is lethal acrodermatitis in English Bull Terriers?
Lethal acrodermatitis is a genetic condition unique to predominantly white English Bull Terriers. It typically appears early in puppies and is characterised by the thickening and hardening of the skin on sensitive areas such as the muzzle, ears, paw pads, and mucous membranes. These areas often develop painful, weeping sores prone to infections. Puppies affected by LAD also show stunted growth and are vulnerable to recurrent infections due to immune system deficiencies. Ultimately, this condition is usually fatal within the first two years due to complications like pneumonia.
How is lethal acrodermatitis inherited in the breed?
LAD is an autosomal recessive condition, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the faulty gene (one from each parent) to be affected. Dogs can be:
- Clear – carrying no copies of the mutation and will not develop or pass on LAD.
- Carriers – carrying one copy of the mutation, clinically unaffected but able to pass it on.
- Affected – carrying two copies, will develop LAD and should not be bred.
Breeding two carrier dogs increases the risk of producing affected puppies, so understanding each dog's genetic status is crucial for responsible breeding.
How can DNA testing help?
DNA testing for LAD is accurate and widely available through approved veterinary laboratories. It involves taking a blood or cheek swab sample from the dog, which is then analysed to determine the presence of the MKLN1 gene mutation responsible for LAD.
Knowing whether a dog is clear, carrier, or affected allows breeders to make informed mating decisions that prevent LAD. For example, breeding carriers only to clear dogs avoids affected offspring while maintaining genetic diversity.
Breeding recommendations based on LAD DNA status
| Genotype | Status | Can Develop LAD? | Can Pass to Offspring? | Breeding Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N/N | Clear | No | No | Safe to breed with any dog |
| N/M | Carrier | No | Yes, if bred to carrier | Breed only to clear (N/N) dogs |
| M/M | Affected | Yes | Always | Do not breed; affected dogs are euthanised for welfare |
Getting your English Bull Terrier tested
If you own a white English Bull Terrier or plan to breed, talk to your vet about LAD DNA testing. Testing healthy dogs is the only way to know if they carry the mutation since carriers show no symptoms. Both parents must be tested before breeding to assess the litter's risk.
Test samples can be blood or cheek swabs sent to specialised labs. Results provide clear information about your dog's LAD status, supporting responsible breeding decisions and protecting the breed’s health.
Conclusion
Lethal acrodermatitis is a devastating inherited disease primarily affecting white English Bull Terriers, leading to premature death. While incurable, DNA testing provides a proactive way to prevent LAD by guiding responsible breeding choices.
By ensuring breeders test their dogs for the MKLN1 mutation and avoid risky matings, the breed community can dramatically reduce the incidence of LAD and improve overall health and welfare. If you’re considering finding an English Bull Terrier puppy, ask for the parents' DNA health clearances as a sign of responsible breeding.
