Severe Combined Immunodeficiency in Dogs

Category: Immune System
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 5

Overview

Severe combined immunodeficiency leaves a puppy without effective protection from two major parts of the immune system. The cells that coordinate immune responses and the cells that make antibodies do not work normally. Several genetic forms occur, including a RAG1-related form reported in Wetterhouns, also called Frisian Water Dogs. Affected puppies may appear healthy at first, then develop serious illness as protection from their mother's antibodies declines.

Signs to watch for

Diarrhea in a young puppy
Seizures
Unsteady walking or loss of balance
Loss of sight

In the reported Wetterhoun form, illness often began around 7 to 8 weeks.

Emergency Go to an emergency vet now if your puppy has a seizure.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets investigate serious infections in a young puppy with blood tests that count immune cells and measure antibodies. Specialized cell testing can show which immune-cell groups are missing. For the reported Wetterhoun form, DNA testing can identify the RAG1 variant and healthy carriers.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Medium

WetterhounMedium · Foundation Stock Service

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.