Retinal dysplasia (RD) & oculo skeletal dysplasia (OSD) DNA testing for Labrador retrievers
The Labrador retriever is the most popular large dog breed in the UK and ranks 8th in overall popularity. For over two decades, they topped Kennel Club registrations for new litters, until overtaken by the French bulldog in 2018.
Labrador retrievers are admired for their kind temperament, high intelligence, boundless energy, and eagerness to please, making them excellent working dogs in roles ranging from assistance to detection, police, and military work.
Today, most Labradors in the UK are beloved family pets and also excel in various canine sports and competitions.
They typically live between 10 to 12 years, an average lifespan for a large breed. However, their immense popularity has, unfortunately, led to a higher incidence of hereditary health issues in the breed.
One notable hereditary condition affecting Labrador retrievers is the combined retinal dysplasia (RD) and oculo skeletal dysplasia (OSD). These are genetic health issues affecting the eyes and skeleton, often appearing together because they share the same genetic cause.
What is Retinal Dysplasia and Oculo Skeletal Dysplasia in Labradors?
Retinal dysplasia mainly affects the retina of the eye, presenting in various forms:
- A milder form with non-progressive folds that typically do not severely impact vision.
- A severe form that includes retinal detachment leading to blindness.
Oculo skeletal dysplasia causes malformation of the dog's skeleton, notably achondroplasia (short-limbed dwarfism). Vision problems due to retinal dysplasia usually accompany these skeletal abnormalities.
How Are RD and OSD Inherited in Labrador Retrievers?
There are two recognized forms of RD in Labradors with different inheritance patterns:
- European form: An autosomal recessive trait affecting only vision. Dogs with two copies of the faulty gene develop retinal detachment and blindness; those with one copy may show mild retinal folds.
- American field trial form: Inherited as an incompletely dominant trait causing both retinal and skeletal abnormalities, including OSD.
Because inheritance can be complex, not all dogs with the gene develop symptoms due to incomplete penetrance, but breeding from affected or carrier dogs risks passing the condition on.
Symptoms to Watch For
Labrador puppies typically show signs from 6 to 8 weeks of age:
- Signs of retinal dysplasia include poor vision, bumping into objects, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and difficulty seeing in dim light.
- OSD is evident through abnormally short legs alongside vision problems.
DNA Testing for RD and OSD in Labradors in the UK
There is a well-established DNA testing scheme in the UK that helps both owners and breeders:
- Identify dogs that carry the gene for RD and OSD before symptoms appear.
- Help breeders choose healthy parent stock and avoid breeding dogs that could pass these conditions on.
- Test both parents screening ensures litters free from these hereditary diseases.
To get your Labrador tested, book an appointment with your vet who will collect a DNA sample, which is sent to an approved laboratory specialising in genetic testing for these conditions.
Why Responsible Breeding Matters
Using available DNA tests responsibly is vital to reducing the incidence of retinal and skeletal dysplasia in Labradors. Reputable breeders participate in testing to maintain the breed’s health and welfare, promoting lifelong quality of life for their dogs.
Summary of Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Inheritance | Autosomal recessive (European) and incompletely dominant (American variant) |
| Symptoms | Poor vision, retinal folds, blindness, short limbs (dwarfism in OSD) |
| Age of Onset | Typically 6–8 weeks old |
| DNA Testing (UK) | Available for breeders and owners; crucial to prevent passing condition on |
By ensuring your Labrador is DNA tested for RD and OSD before breeding, you contribute to the breed's continued health and happiness in the UK.
