Canine Epilepsy
Epilepsy in Welsh Springer Spaniels is a neurological seizure disorder believed to have a hereditary/genetic component. It is present in a relatively low incidence within the breed, but may be more common in some breeding lines than others. Currently, no genetic marker exists to distinguish afflicted animals, carrier animals or clear animals. Therefore, breeders are always cognizant that they may produce litters where puppies may develop epilepsy. No breeder can predict when this may occur, and the diagnosis of epilepsy is one of exclusion-meaning that all other causes of seizures must be ruled out before a diagnosis of 'idiopathic epilepsy' is assigned to a Welsh Springer Spaniel.
Reputable breeders know pedigrees where epilepsy risk may be lower or higher, based on their relationship to other breeders and the ability to communicate helpful information among members of regional and national Welsh Springer Spaniel breed clubs. It is through this informal network that breeders attempt to conduct pedigree research regarding epilepsy risk.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America supports Canine Health Foundation research grants exploring the genetics of canine epilepsy and someday we breeders hope to have a genetic marker test to use when making breeding decisions. While several genetic markers for rare forms of canine epilepsy have been discovered recently, researchers have not yet isolated the gene mutations causing epilepsy in Welsh Springer Spaniels.
For more information about Canine Epilepsy, please visit the Canine Epilepsy Network site. There is extensive information about epilepsy, the work of the network, and the epilepsy research that is being carried out at the University of Missouri and the University of Minnesota.
Reputable breeders know pedigrees where epilepsy risk may be lower or higher, based on their relationship to other breeders and the ability to communicate helpful information among members of regional and national Welsh Springer Spaniel breed clubs. It is through this informal network that breeders attempt to conduct pedigree research regarding epilepsy risk.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America supports Canine Health Foundation research grants exploring the genetics of canine epilepsy and someday we breeders hope to have a genetic marker test to use when making breeding decisions. While several genetic markers for rare forms of canine epilepsy have been discovered recently, researchers have not yet isolated the gene mutations causing epilepsy in Welsh Springer Spaniels.
For more information about Canine Epilepsy, please visit the Canine Epilepsy Network site. There is extensive information about epilepsy, the work of the network, and the epilepsy research that is being carried out at the University of Missouri and the University of Minnesota.