Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA in Dogs

Category: Nervous System & Behavioral
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 6

Overview

Cells cannot break down heparan sulfate properly because an enzyme called sulfamidase is deficient. The material builds up in tissues, including the nervous system. Unlike several other storage diseases, this form mainly causes worsening nervous system problems. In the reported Dachshund family, back-leg incoordination began in adulthood and progressed into a more widespread movement disorder.

Signs to watch for

An unsteady walk, especially in the back legs
Frequent stumbling or falling
Swaying while standing
A trembling head
Difficulty climbing stairs

Signs often appear around three years in Dachshunds and around eighteen months in New Zealand Huntaways.

When to get help Book a vet visit when your dog develops an unsteady walk or head tremors.

Diagnosis and tests

Urine testing can detect excess stored material, while enzyme tests help identify the specific storage disorder. Specialist laboratories can test sulfamidase activity when MPS IIIA is suspected. DNA tests are also available for the known Dachshund and New Zealand Huntaway variants, helping identify affected dogs and carriers.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Small

DachshundSmall · Hound Group

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.