American Hairless Terriers at Wudnshu | Genetic Problems in the Breed

Wudnshu Kennel
American Hairless Terrier

Known Genetic Problems in Rat Terriers

We are seeing some genetic problems that have plagued the dog world for many years. It would be wonderful to say that this breed is problem free.. But, reality says that this is not the case. ALL breeds have problems. It is the degree to which they are seen.... how reliable breeders are with testing.... and then reporting the results that become the real issues at hand. Testing has just begun, therefore numbers are not available. With any breed , it will be up to the breeders themselves to determine what is important to them to test for in the lines they are building. Some of the tests can be costly, but to close one's eyes to say that their breed or their lines are NOT affected and they have done NO testing to back that statement up is giving lip service and adding to the problem. Buyer Beware... Also, use CAUTION in drawing conclusions based on hearsay. This is what rumors are made of and directly impacts the novice breeder and pet owners alike. This combined with lack of testing and real life experience is the most detrimental of all !

It is for this reason that I will list all the problems that have been seen in this breed, even if only one time. If you know of another disorder that should be listed, please email me and I will add. Linked names will take you to more information.

Immune mediated hemolytic anemia
Seizures - no known source
Blue Dog disease
Club Foot
Frontal leg diameter abnormality
Allergies
Von Willebrand's disease
Heart murmur
Cushings Disease
Thyroid problems

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BAER Testing

Rat Terrier puppy being BAER tested for deafness.

BAER Testing is a painless procedure, takes only a few minutes to do. This puppy was very relaxed. Age 6.5wks She tested deaf in one ear. This puppy "appeared" to have good hearing, came when called, playful, very alert. Had NO signs of being potentially deaf. You wouldn't have known she was deaf in one ear. There have been NO external markers identified in any of the breeds tested. Not even in Dalmatian who are the most tested of all breeds. However, blue eyes, merle color pattern, piebald gene have been linked to deafness. BAER Testing sites

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Allergies and Eye Staining

AHT showing skin 'bleaching' from eye tearing.

One idiosyncrasy that might be seen with the breed. He has occasionally tearing........as any breed does but when he does it bleaches out his color........see under his right eye. Sometimes it gets totally white..........just the one side. Have asked two vets..........they say that high acidity in his tears is most likely due to allergies.........AND indeed he is an allergic little guy :) It does tan up until he has another bout with his eyes tearing. When everything is budding he tears up alot and has itchy feet. Wiping his feet off with a washcloth after coming in helps alot. Having him on a raw diet with very little kibble and that has helped tremendously

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