Vizslas ONLY
Disproportionate Dwarfism (DWARF)
Some Vizslas are significantly shorter than the breed standard due to a mutation in the PCYT1A gene. The short phenotype is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. Affected puppies are not visibly different from their unaffected littermates at birth. However, between 3 and 5 weeks of age, it becomes increasing evident that the affected puppies have shorter and more bowed limbs than their littermates and have knobby carpus joints. In adulthood, affected dogs are shorter than the breed standard with shoulder heights generally between 42 and 51 cm. In most affected dogs the head and trunk size and shape do not differ from those of unaffected dogs. It does not appear that the mutation results in any health issues.
Breeds affected: Vizsla
References:
Ludwig-Peisker O, Ansel E, Schweizer D, Jagannathan V, Loechel R, Leeb T. PCYT1A Missense Variant in Vizslas with Disproportionate Dwarfism. Genes 13(12) 2022.
Gene: PCYT1A
Explanation of DNA Test Results
Normal (N/N)
This dog tested clear for the variant causing Disproportionate Dwarfism in this breed. It can only transmit a normal gene to offspring and can be bred to a dog that has tested N/N or A/N without producing affected offspring.
Carrier (A/N)
This dog has tested as a carrier for the variant causing Disproportionate Dwarfism in this breed. It is not at risk for developing the disorder. It may transmit either a normal gene or an affected gene to offspring. To minimize producing affected offspring this dog should only be bred to dogs DNA-tested NORMAL (N/N) for this mutation.
Affected (A/A)
This dog has tested as affected for the variant causing Disproportionate Dwarfism in this breed. It is at risk for developing symptoms of the disease. If this dog is bred, it will pass down the risk for developing this disorder to each of its offspring.
For more information on this disorder, please refer to the Canine Genetics Laboratory website https://cvm.missouri.edu/research/canine-genetics-laboratory/
Tests are ordered online through the secure area of the OFA website. Payment is accepted by credit card (MasterCard and VISA). The OFA administers all order handling. Upon receipt of an order, the OFA will send out the test kit which will include a Foam-Tipped Applicator card for DNA sample collection, along with sample collection instructions. Using the FTA card technology, owners can safely collect DNA samples at home. The collection process is non-invasive, and no veterinary appointment is necessary.
Samples are then sent to the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine where the samples will be processed by the Small Animal Molecular Genetics Lab. Results will be forwarded to the OFA, and the OFA will issue the resulting report to the owner.
The fee for each test includes the test kit, laboratory processing, and subsequent registration in the OFA databases.