Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia in Old English Sheepdogs: Causes & Testing

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a hereditary condition that affects the Old English Sheepdog breed, causing impaired function of microscopic hair-like structures called cilia. These cilia play a vital role in clearing mucus and debris from the airways and lungs, and the condition also affects flagella responsible for sperm cell movement.

Dogs with PCD struggle to clear mucus normally, leading to thick accumulations that can block the respiratory tract. This results in chronic respiratory issues such as bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, and rhinosinusitis. Symptoms often appear before the dog reaches one year old and may include lethargy, coughing, sneezing, and exercise intolerance, sometimes mistaken for allergies.

PCD can also cause infertility and other health effects including ear problems and kidney fibrosis. Due to its impact on the breed, The Kennel Club recommends pre-breeding DNA screening for Old English Sheepdogs to prevent passing the condition to puppies.

What is Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia?

PCD is present from birth and disrupts the normal motility of cilia, leading to poor mucus clearance. This sets off a cascade of problems from chronic nasal discharge to repeated respiratory infections, often making early diagnosis challenging if the dog’s risk status is unknown.

If you own an Old English Sheepdog exhibiting symptoms such as persistent coughing or sneezing, it’s important to consider PCD and seek veterinary advice for proper diagnosis.

Which Dogs Can Be Affected?

This inherited condition primarily affects the Old English Sheepdog breed in the UK. Pre-breeding testing is vital to identify carrier and affected dogs, ensuring responsible breeding decisions that produce healthy puppies. Crossbreeds with one Old English Sheepdog parent may carry the mutated gene without showing symptoms but can pass it on.

Learn more about finding Old English Sheepdog puppies from reputable breeders to support ethical breeding practices.

How is PCD Inherited?

PCD follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Dogs fall into three categories regarding the PCD gene status: clear, carrier, or affected. The breeding pair's genetic status determines the puppies' status as follows:

• Two clear parents produce clear puppies.
• Two affected parents produce affected puppies.
• Two carriers produce a litter of roughly 25% affected, 50% carriers, and 25% clear puppies.
• A clear and a carrier parent produce 50% clear and 50% carrier puppies.
• A clear and an affected parent produce 50% clear and 50% affected puppies.
• A carrier and an affected parent produce 50% carriers and 50% affected puppies.

How to Get Your Dog Tested for PCD

Testing for PCD involves a simple DNA sample, usually via a cheek swab or blood sample taken by your vet. Samples are sent to The Kennel Club’s approved laboratories, which report back the genetic status of your dog.

Knowing your dog's PCD status is a responsible step that supports the health of future generations, allowing breeders and owners to make informed decisions and avoid breeding affected puppies.

Early diagnosis can also help manage clinical symptoms and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Summary and Responsible Ownership

PCD in Old English Sheepdogs is a significant inherited disorder causing chronic respiratory illness from early life. Understanding inheritance, symptoms, and testing options empowers owners and breeders to protect this beloved breed.

Always seek testing through reputable breeders and consult your vet for advice if you suspect PCD symptoms. Responsible ownership and ethical breeding help ensure healthier puppies and happier dogs for generations to come.