What is Lotus Syndrome in Dogs? A Fatal Puppy Disorder

Lotus Syndrome in dogs is a fatal birth defect primarily seen in puppies, especially in the Silken Windhound puppies. Puppies affected by this condition are either stillborn or born with severe deformities and have significant difficulties with breathing.

What is Lotus Syndrome?

The syndrome named for the distinctive "lotus" posture in affected puppies, where hind legs are tucked and folded beneath the stomach and front legs are stretched out with wrists touching under the chest. This unique positioning resembles the lotus yoga pose, reflecting the name.

Key features include:

• Posture: Hind legs tucked up, front legs outstretched and wrists touching.
• Physical Deformities: Some puppies show bone abnormalities like a twisted spine (scoliosis), although some may have no visible bone deformities but still suffer from breathing difficulties.
• Symptoms: Puppies lack the instinct to suckle, are lethargic, have trouble breathing and show little to no movement.
• Survival: Sadly, puppies born with Lotus Syndrome have no chance of long-term survival, with many being stillborn or dying within hours of birth.

Lotus Syndrome and Fetal Akinesia Deformation Sequence (FADS)

Research from the University of Pennsylvania indicates Lotus Syndrome closely resembles a human condition known as fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS). FADS infants show similar symptoms including lack of fetal movement and respiratory problems after birth. Comparing these conditions helps researchers better understand Lotus Syndrome’s mechanisms.

Causes and Genetic Research

The exact cause of Lotus Syndrome remains unknown. Most research focuses on the Silken Windhound breed, as it appears most affected. Breeders and researchers are working together to identify the gene(s) responsible.

The ultimate goal is to develop a DNA marker test that can identify carriers of the gene responsible for Lotus Syndrome. Once available, such a test would allow breeders to avoid producing affected puppies through informed breeding decisions.

Unfortunately, international breeders outside the USA have limited involvement due to strict animal transport regulations, slowing progress in broader understanding and testing.

Breeds Known to be Affected

The Silken Windhound is the primary breed known to be affected with Lotus Syndrome, causing concern among breeders, especially in America. There may be other breeds affected too, although evidence is less clear due to the rarity and variability of the disorder.

How to Prevent Lotus Syndrome

Currently, the only way to prevent Lotus Syndrome is to avoid breeding dogs known or suspected to carry the gene. Without a definitive DNA test, breeders face difficult choices, but responsible breeding programs that share information and cooperate with researchers are the best current approach.

Conclusion

Lotus Syndrome is a devastating, fatal disorder in puppies causing serious birth deformities and breathing difficulties, with no current cure. It mainly affects the Silken Windhound. Research continues hoping to develop genetic testing to help eliminate the condition through responsible breeding.