Musladin-Lueke Syndrome in Dogs

Category: Skin & Connective Tissue
Inheritance: Autosomal recessive
Breeds documented: 2
Published sources: 5

Overview

Unusually tight skin and stiff joints are key features of this inherited connective tissue disorder. Connective tissue provides support throughout the body, and the disorder can affect skin, muscles, and bones. Affected puppies may grow poorly and develop an unusual walk on the tips of their toes. The severity of the signs can vary.

Signs to watch for

Thick skin that looks unusually tight
Stiff limbs and limited joint movement
An unusual tiptoe or hopping walk
Poor growth or unusually small size
A broad head with widely spaced, slanting eyes

Signs begin during puppyhood.

When to get help Book a vet visit if a puppy grows poorly or moves stiffly.

Diagnosis and tests

A vet considers the growth pattern, skin tightness, and joint movement. A DNA test for the known variant can confirm Musladin-Lueke syndrome. The test also identifies carriers, which have one copy of the variant without the visible signs seen in affected dogs.

Breeds with documented risk

2 breeds

By breed size

2 Small

BeagleSmall · Hound Group
PuggleSmall

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive
Beagle
A dog is affected only if it inherits two copies of the gene variant, one from each parent. A dog with one copy is a carrier: usually healthy, but able to pass the variant on. When two carriers are bred, on average one puppy in four is affected. A DNA test can tell clear, carrier and at-risk dogs apart.
As stated by OMIA

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.