The affected dogs are generally characterized by a normal sized trunk and short limbs. Dogs with chondrodysplasia (CDPA) have short legs; this phenotype is characteristic for many breeds such as Welsh Corgi and Dachshund.
Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) is caused by a separate mutation, also includes a short-legged phenotype as well as abnormal premature degeneration of intervertebral discs leading to susceptibility to intervertebral disc herniation (IVDD).
The inheritance of CDDY is semi-dominant (dogs with 2 mutations are smaller than dogs with 1 mutation. However, the inheritance of IVDD is autosomal dominant meaning that 1 mutation is sufficient to express IVDD phenotype.
Genetic testing for these mutations can help breeders to determine if CDDY is present and to identify dogs at risk for IVDD. In breeds where both types of mutations are present, breeders can benefit from test results to implement breeding strategies to reduce incidence of CDDY, while keeping the short-legged phenotype caused by CDPA.
The Toller or Canadian Retriever for short, is a medium-sized dog breed native to Canada, specifically the Nova Scotia peninsula. The retriever was originally a hunting dog and is still used for hunting in a number of countries. However, it is increasingly being used as a companion dog due to its manageability, friendly nature and excellent relationship with people of all ages. The Toller is an active sport dog that needs to unleash its endless energy: hunting, hiking, camping and of course swimming. The endless retrieving of ball or stick is almost fanatical in many dogs of that breed.
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