Health Testing
Health Issues and Testing
Bull Terrier Miniatures can carry genetic health conditions and it is important that all registered breeders throughout Australian and the world work towards breeding these conditions out of the gene pool.
At Hootenhowl we verify genetic soundness through Genetic testing be that via ancestoral/parental testing or from directly testing dogs before being chosen for a breeding program.
We use and recommend Orivet Genetic testing.
PLL (Primary Lens Luxation)
What it is: A genetic condition where the fibres holding the eye's lens in place break down, causing the lens to dislocate.
Symptoms: This leads to painful glaucoma and blindness.
Genetics: It can be inherited, with first signs appearing around 20 months of age, and complete luxation often occurring between 3 and 8 years old.It can be inherited, with first signs appearing around 20 months of age, and complete luxation often occurring between 3 and 8 years old.
LP (Laryngeal Paralysis)
What it is: An inherited disease that affects the voice box, making breathing difficult.
Symptoms: Affected dogs experience breathing difficulties, especially during exercise.
LAD (Lethal Acrodermatitis)
What it is: A severe inherited disease characterized by skin lesions on the paws and head, often accompanied by a weakened immune system.
Symptoms: Symptoms include skin lesions, hyperkeratosis (thickening) of the paw pads, deformed nails, diarrhea, bronchopneumonia, and a general failure to thrive.
Prognosis: Affected puppies typically die before the age of two years.
PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease)
What it is: A slow-progressing genetic disease where small cysts form within the kidneys.
Symptoms: These cysts grow over time, replacing normal kidney tissue and leading to a decline in kidney function.
Prognosis: The disease can ultimately result in chronic kidney failure.