Pit Bull Research Articles

Does cranial cruciate ligament repair by tibial plateau leveling osteotomy surgery restore dog’s natural kinematics? – A case series

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) serves as an effective method of functional stabilization for treating cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) deficiency. It is not clear if TPLO could restore the natural kinematics of the stifle, hip, and tarsal joints of the affected limb during walking. The hind limb motion between TPLO cases and control groups in eight adult dogs (4 French Bulldogs and 4 Pit Bull Terrier) was recorded by a motion capture system. Three-dimensional (3D) angular motions of the hip, stifle, and tarsal joints—including flexion-extension, abduction-adduction, and rotations—were computed and compared. Significant differences in joint kinematics were observed between TPLO cases and controls. In Case 1, the TPLO case in the French Bulldog showed differences in hip, stifle, and tarsal flexion-extension, abduction-adduction, and internal-external rotation. Asymmetries between affected and unaffected limbs were also detected in hip and stifle motions (up to 43° in some cases). Similar patterns of differences were found in Pit Bull Terriers Case 2 and Case 3, with significant variations in hip, stifle, and tarsal movements. Case 3 did not show hip asymmetries, but notable stifle and tarsal asymmetries were observed. The general daily activity performance for French Bulldogs and Pit Bull Terriers that underwent TPLO procedures was positive. The general daily restricted activity performance for the French Bulldog and Pit Bull Terriers that underwent TPLO procedures was positive. Our findings suggested that natural hind limb kinematics during gait was not restored in TPLO hind limb cases in both breeds.

Housing-related companion animal relinquishment across 21 animal shelters in the United States from 2019-2023.

Housing issues are a major contributor to companion animal relinquishment in the United States and beyond. In this study, we analyze a database of shelter intake records from 2019-2023 from 21 shelters across the United States to assess rates and subtypes of housing relinquishment, characteristics and outcomes of the relinquished animals, and longitudinal trends in housing relinquishment. Housing issues represented 14% (n = 28,424) of overall intakes in the broader database (N = 1,021,204 total intake records). Housing relinquishment subtypes were unspecified (54%), pet-related restrictions (27%), landlord issues (8%), housing loss (5%), and unhoused owners (5%). Large (mean weight: 55 lbs) and small dogs (mean weight: 11 lbs) were most common. Pit bull-type dogs comprised 12% of the overall relinquishments and mixed-breed dogs were 35%. Most animals had a live outcome, but live outcomes decreased over time (p < 0.001, z = -6.91, slope = -0.11), and pit bull-type dogs (X 2(1) = 243.63, p < 0.001) and animals relinquished by unhoused owners (OR = 0.64, p < 0.05) were most at risk of euthanasia or other shelter death. Over the study period, intakes due to loss of home increased (p < 0.001, z = 9.82, slope = 0.29), while intakes due to pet restrictions (p < 0.001, z = -6.82, slope = -0.17) and landlord issues decreased (p < 0.001, z = -4.89, slope = -0.08). Overall cat intakes increased (p < 0.001, z = 3.60, slope = 7.34), while dog intakes decreased (p < 0.001, z = -4.89, slope = -0.08). The number of intakes that were pit bull-type dogs (compared to all other breeds) decreased over time (p < 0.001, z = -4.56, slope = -0.06), as did average animal weight (p < 0.001, z = -4.42, slope = -0.07) and age (p < 0.001, z = -7.88, slope = -0.16). We discuss these findings in the context of the previous shelter and pet-friendly housing research and broader housing trends and policies in the United States.

Life expectancy for dogs from the City of Buenos Aires

The aim of the present study was to develop the first life tables for the dog population of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires by constructing life expectancy tables. Data on canines received for final disposal at the Luis Pasteur Zoonosis Institute of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires from January 2018 to December 2021 were used to prepare the life tables. Of the 11,429 dogs that died in that period, the overall life expectancy at birth was 11.88 years (95% CI = 11.37–12.39). There was no difference in life expectancy at birth by sex or by pure versus cross breeds. According to neuter status, life expectancy at birth in neutered (13.98 years) was significantly higher than in entire (11.46 years) (p-value = 0.00001). Life tables varied according to the breed studied, with the Pekingese having the highest life expectancy at birth 16.42 years (95% CI: 15.87–16.98), and the Pit bull having the lowest life expectancy at birth 10.13 years (95% CI: 9.58–10.68). The current study provides useful information for veterinary professionals and pet owners and is a valuable tool for planning and developing effective health policies.

Canine Outcomes and Length of Stay in a Midwestern Shelter Affected by Breed Specific Legislation

Breed specific legislation (BSL) is intended to restrict or reduce the ownership of selected breeds of dogs within a municipality. These laws frequently aim at “bully breeds” such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and other pure or mixed breeds with similar phenotypic characteristics which are heavily represented in shelters nationwide. This study describes differences in outcomes and length of stay (LOS) for banned dogs versus dogs of other breeds in a managed admission municipal shelter subject to BSL. It was hypothesized that dogs subject to legislation would have fewer live outcomes and a longer LOS when compared to non-legislated dogs. Retrospective outcome data from 1/1/2022 through 12/31/2022 was analyzed. The study population included 764 adult dogs of which 118 were affected by legislation. The legislated and non-legislated groups were found to be demographically equivalent considering age group, sex, previous alteration status, and intake frequency, but legislated dogs had a significantly heavier body weight compared to non-legislated dogs. Initial Pearson Chi-Square testing revealed a statistically significant increase in euthanasia for legislated dogs and adoptions for non-legislated dogs. After controlling for body weight, there was a statistically significant increase in adoption for the non-legislated group, and increased return to owner (RTO) for legislated dogs, however there wasn’t a statistically significant difference in total live outcomes. Mann-Whitney U Testing demonstrated a statistically significant increase in LOS for legislated dogs compared to non-legislated dogs in the full study population, but after controlling for weight their LOS was no longer significantly different. In the body weight controlled group however, LOS was still significantly longer for legislated dogs versus non-legislated dogs with adoption and RTO outcomes. Euthanasia reasons were evaluated for 80 dogs whose first outcome was euthanasia. Pearson Chi Square testing showed legislated dogs in this group were no more likely to be euthanized for aggression than the non-legislated dogs. In this population, dogs subject to BSL were less likely to be adopted but more likely to RTO. It is suspected shelter staff prevented euthanasia of some legislated dogs through heightened efforts to facilitate RTO even though there was not a formal protocol in place to do so. After controlling for body weight, LOS was equivalent between legislated and non-legislated groups, although the legislated dogs did experience increased LOS before live outcomes. Importantly, legislated dogs were not significantly more likely to be euthanized due to aggressive behavior than non-legislated dogs in this population. These findings indicate that dogs targeted by BSL should be considered an at-risk group within the shelter population and shelters should endeavor to develop specific strategies to reduce LOS and provide best outcomes for these dogs. In many jurisdictions, overturning BSL could be a powerful approach to protecting this at-risk population.

Anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication in a dog with pericardial effusion and a heart base mass‐like effect

AbstractA 4‐year‐old American Pitbull terrier presented for acute onset of a honking cough, vomiting and anorexia. Thoracic radiographs revealed tracheal narrowing consistent with a mass effect or tracheal collapse. The dog was hospitalised but acutely developed respiratory distress, syncope and pale mucous membranes. Moderate pleural effusion and a heart base mass were noted on echocardiographic examination as well as evidence of cardiac tamponade. Coagulation times were severely prolonged. After additional discussion with the owners, rodenticide exposure was considered possible. The owners elected humane euthanasia. A necropsy revealed gross evidence of intrathoracic haemorrhage and a heart base mass consistent with a haematoma. There was no evidence of neoplasia on histopathological evaluation of the tissues. A final diagnosis of rodenticide intoxication was made. This case report demonstrates the importance of considering anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication in patients with a history of pericardial effusion. It is also important to consider a haematoma as a differential diagnosis when a heart‐associated mass is visualised in patients with pericardial effusion.

Treatment of Chronic and Severe Diabetes Mellitus with Ketoacidosis in a Four-Year-Old Intact Female American Pit Bull Terrier

Treatment of Chronic and Severe Diabetes Mellitus with Ketoacidosis in a Four-Year-Old Intact Female American Pit Bull Terrier

Lingual extramedullary plasmacytoma in a 9‐year‐old American Pitbull terrier

AbstractA 9‐year‐old, female, spayed American Pitbull terrier presented for a month‐long history of lethargy, inappetence, altered breathing and unusual tongue movement. Severe anaemia was noted on bloodwork. Oral exam revealed an exophytic, pale, tan mass at the tongue base. A computed tomography scan was performed, followed by surgical removal of the mass. Histopathology confirmed the mass as an extramedullary plasmacytoma. Within 24 hours of removal, the clinical signs and anaemia were improving, and the dog was released from hospital. On follow‐up 2 weeks postoperatively, the dog's bloodwork was all within normal parameters, the anaemia was completely resolved, and the dog was doing well at home. After 692 days of successful removal of the tumour, the owner reports the dog is doing well at home.

Factors related to longevity and mortality of dogs in Italy

Besides its translational value, an improved understanding of dog longevity and mortality is necessary to guide health management decisions, breed selection, and improve dog welfare. In order to analyse the lifespan of dogs in Italy, identify the most common causes of death, and evaluate possible risk factors, anonymised medical records were collected from 9 veterinary teaching hospitals and 2 public health institutions. Data regarding breed, sex, neuter status, age, diagnosis, and mechanism of death were retrieved. Cause of death (COD) was classified by pathophysiologic process (PP) and organ system (OS). Of the 4957 dogs that died between 2004 and 2020 included in the study, 2920 (59.0%) were purebred, 2293 (46.2%) were female, 3005 (60.6%) were intact, 2883 (58.2%) were euthanised. Overall median longevity was 10.0 years. Median longevity was significantly longer for crossbreds, females, neutered dogs, and small-sized breeds. The breeds with the highest median age at death were the Yorkshire terrier, English cocker spaniel, West Highland white terrier, Italian volpino, and Shih Tzu, whilst the American bulldog, English bulldog, American pit bull terrier, Bernese mountain dog and the Maremma and the Abruzzes sheepdog had the lowest median age at death. The most frequent COD by PP was neoplasia (34.0%), which occurred more frequently in large breeds, namely German shepherd, Labrador retriever and Boxer. Degenerative diseases mostly affected small-sized dogs like Miniature pinscher and Dachshund. Regarding the OS involved, diseases of the renal/urinary system were most frequently responsible for COD (15.0%), prevalently degenerative and inflammatory/infectious. Substantial variation in median longevity according to causes of death by PP and OS was observed. These data are relevant for breeders, veterinary practitioners, and owners, to assist breed selection, facilitate early diagnosis, guide choice when purchasing a purebred dog and making health management decisions, and ultimately improve dog welfare.

The Relation between Plasma Nesfatin-1 Levels and Aggressive Behavior in Pit Bull Dogs.

Aggression is a prevalent and concerning behavioral issue in dogs. Pit Bull dogs, known for their high levels of aggression, are recognized as a focus of concern in society. In our study, we aimed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of Pit Bull dogs and explore the potential roles of peptides involved in the neurobiology of aggression. Initially, female, and male dogs underwent aggression tests, and their aggression levels were categorized. Plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine levels were quantified using ELISA, with blood samples collected after a 24 h fasting period and 2 h post-refeeding. Our findings indicate that aggression in Pit Bull dogs correlates with decreased plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, and oxytocin levels, while dopamine levels increase. The study's findings indicate that fasted dogs exhibited lower plasma levels of nesfatin-1, serotonin, and dopamine, while plasma oxytocin levels were higher. Furthermore, while the research findings do not suggest a significant relationship between the severity of aggression and the gender of the dog, male Pit Bull breeds appear to have higher plasma nesfatin-1 and serotonin levels compared to their female counterparts. The study's findings demonstrate that nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine play pivotal roles in Pit Bull dogs' aggression, indicating potential interactions among these neuropeptides at the central nervous system level.

DO MUNICIPALITIES HAVE THE POWER TO REGULATE THE KEEPING OF “DANGEROUS” DOGS?

Dog attacks and resultant deaths are frequent occurrences in South Africa. Pit bulls are responsible in many of these cases and there are calls for them to be banned. Dogs, however, are the property of their owners, and forcing people to give them up will amount to a deprivation of property and an infringement of a dog owner’s right to property, which is protected by section 25 of the Constitution. Dogfighting is rife in South Africa and the conduct of dog owners contributes to dogs being aggressive and leads to dog attacks. In terms of the Constitution, animal control is a functional area of concurrent national and provincial legislative competence; on a strict interpretation, this means that municipalities do not have the power to legislate on the function. However, everyone is guaranteed the right to freedom and security of the person, which includes the right to be free from all forms of violence from either public or private sources. As such, the municipality (as part of the State) must respect, protect, promote and fulfil the right. Municipalities also have a duty to promote a safe and healthy environment, and the power to make by-laws on matters they may administer. They may also exercise powers that are reasonable and incidental to the effective performance of municipal functions, which is supported by the principle of subsidiarity, the fulfilment of the duties arising from section 12 of the Constitution, and the objective to promote a safe and healthy environment. A municipality that has the necessary resources can legislate and enforce by-laws on matters listed in Schedule 4A and 5A of the Constitution, provided that such action seeks to further the objectives of Chapter 2 of the Constitution and is not in conflict with measures adopted by the national and provincial spheres. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) is responsible for animal welfare, but the responsibilities of animal welfare organisations are becoming greater as urbanisation in South Africa accelerates and animals in many disadvantaged communities are in dire need of basic animal care. The suite of local government law is geared towards the social and economic upliftment of communities, and there is legislative justification for interventions by municipalities to address matters such as the control of public nuisances, dog licensing, the operation of pounds, and the conduct of community members that can alleviate the pressure on those organisations tasked with animal care. There are a number of legislative instruments that apply to animals. A consolidation of the provisions of the various pieces of legislation into a single by-law aimed at regulating the keeping and treatment of dogs, may result in increased law enforcement and (it is hoped) increased sentences as a result of amplified enforcement, as well as improved deterrence.

Pitiose esofágica e gástrica em cão

ABSTRACT: Pythiosis is the disease caused by aquatic oomycetes of the genus Pythium. In dogs the typical course of the disease involves the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by transmural thickening of the stomach or intestines. However, infection by Pythium spp. has only rarely been recognized as a cause of esophagitis in dogs. Thus, the present reports a case of esophageal and gastric pythiosis in an eight-month-old female pit bull dog. The dog was attended at the hospital after two months presenting regurgitation and dyspnea. It was reported that the dog lived in an urban area and had no previous sanitary issues. At clinical examination it was noted that the dog presented crackling sounds at pulmonary auscultation. A support therapy accompanied by antibiotics has been employed; however, 22 days after hospitalization the clinical condition worsened, and the dog died. At necropsy, the wall of the distal segment of the esophagus and the cardia and part of the fundus of the stomach were expanded by a focal extensive irregular intramural annular mass. Additionally, there was a transmural esophageal fistula. At histology, the walls of the esophagus and stomach were extensively expanded by multifocal extensive areas of necrosis, associated with a pyogranulomatous infiltrate and abundant granulation tissue containing multiple negative images of hyphae that were highlighted by silver impregnation (Grocott). Furthermore, immunohistochemistry and PCR for P. insidiosum were both positive in samples of paraffin-embedded esophageal tissue.

The racialization of pit bulls: What dogs can teach us about racial politics.

Many have argued that discrimination against pit bulls is rooted in the breed's association with Black owners and culture. We theoretically and empirically interrogate that argument in a variety of ways and uncover striking similarities between the racialization of pit bulls and other racialized issues (e.g., poverty and crime) in public opinion and policy implementation. After detailing the reasons to expect pit bulls to be racialized as Black despite dog ownership in the U.S. generally being raced as white, the article shows: (1) Most Americans associate pit bulls with Black people. (2) Anti-Black attitudes, in general, are significant, independent, predictors of both anti-pit views and of preferring other breeds over them; (3) stereotypes of Black men as violent, in particular, are significant, independent, predictors of both anti-pit views and of preferring other breeds over them. (4) Implicit racialization through a national survey experiment further eroded support for legalizing pits, with the treatment effect significantly conditioned by respondent's race. And (5) state-level racial prejudice is a significant negative predictor of enacting legislation to preempt breed-specific bans. We conclude with our findings' broader insights into the nature of U.S. racial politics. Michael Tesler, mtesler@uci.edu, corresponding author, is Professor of Political Science at UC Irvine; Mary McThomas, mary.mcthomas@uci.edu, is Associate Professor of Political Science at UC Irvine. An earlier version of this paper was presented at the American Political Science Association's annual meeting. We thank Maneesh Arora, Rachel Bernhard, Nathan Chan, Louis Pickett, David Sears, DeSipio, Adam Duberstein, Jane Junn, Claire Kim, Jessica Manforti, J. Scott Matthews, Justin.

Detección de infección por Brucella canis en perros de raza Pit Bull en Turquía

Brucella canis infection is an often neglected but important zoonotic disease. This study aims to determine its seroprevalence in Pit Bull dogs from the Western Region of the Turkish Anatolian Peninsula. In the Province of Manisa, 2 mL blood samples were taken from the antebrachial region of 35 Pit Bull dogs using sterile K2EDTA (3.6 mg) blood tubes, and the samples were analyzed using both the mercaptoethanol (ME) microagglutination test and B. canis–specific PCR techniques. Of the 35 dogs tested by 2–ME RSAT, 13 (37.14%) tested positive and 22 (63%) tested negative. Of the 13 dogs that tested positive for 2–ME RSAT, 8 (22.85%) were female, and 5 (14.28%) were male. Subsequent PCR analysis of all samples revealed that 7 (20%; 7/35) of the samples that tested positive for 2–ME RSAT were actually B. canis–specific PCR positive. These findings suggest that B. canis is present in Pit Bull dogs, although they provide a general idea of the disease's prevalence of the disease in the region. Multicentre studies with larger numbers of cases in different groups of Pit Bulls, such as healthy, patient and risk groups, are needed to provide comprehensive evidence.

Quantification of Doppler Indices, Contrast Ultrasound Enhancement Phases and Perfusion Parameters of Hepatic Parenchyma in Healthy Dogs

Background: The Liver is a well vascularized organ. Any pathology can impede its blood flow and this makes liver the most suitable organ for studying the Doppler indices and contrast enhanced perfusion parameters. Methods: This clinical study enrolled 9 healthy dogs including 2 breeds each of beagle, German shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and one breed each of Crossbred, Pug and Pit bull. Spectral Doppler sonography and contrast enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) of liver vasculature using a second generation contrast agent (Sonovue) was performed to standardize their normal pulsed-wave Doppler indices and contrast enhanced perfusion parameters. Result: The mean ± SE values of Doppler indices of portal vein were PSV (27.68 ± 2.08 cm/s), EDV (15.32 ± 1.74 cm/s), MV (14.05 ± 1.94 cm/s), RI (0.44 ± 0.05) and PI (0.93 ± 0.11). Mean ± SE value of Doppler indices of hepatic artery were 53.78 ± 3.45 cm/s (PSV), 13.90 ± 1.82 cm/s (EDV), 21.63 ± 1.21 cm/s (MV), 0.73 ± 0.04 (RI), 1.93 ± 0.28 (PI) and for hepatic vein were 38.62 ± 4.62 cm/s (PSV), 11.92 ± 2.79 cm/s (EDV), 17.72 ± 2.95 cm/s (MV), 0.69 ± 0.06 (RI), 1.69 ± 0.23 (PI). CEUS of hepatic parenchyma showed three phases viz arterial, portal and late portal phase. Mean ± SE values of contrast enhanced hepatic perfusion parameters (in seconds) were 7.22 ±0.40 (Arrival time), 16.33 ±1.38 (Time to initial peak), 30.22 ±1.29 (Time to final peak), 54.55 ±2.93 (Decline time) and 160.78±8.60 (Washout time).

Efficacy of homeopathy in association with autohemotherapy in the treatment of dogs with papillomatosis: Case report

Canine papillomatosis is an infectious-contagious pathology caused by the species-specific papillomavirus, characterized by benign neoformations, which can be manifested in the oral cavity, genital tract, lips, pharynx and esophagus. Sometimes, papillomas may occur in the plantar cushion and as a cutaneous disease. Disease transmission occurs by direct or indirect contact with secretions or blood from papillomas present in infected animals. Diagnosis is based on clinical and histopathological examinations. This study aims to report on the efficacy of homeopathic medicines in association with autohemotherapy for treating a 4-month-old American Pit Bull Terrier male dog diagnosed with oral papillomatosis. The treatment protocol was based on the exclusive use of the homeopathic drugs Kali sulphuricum, Thuya occidentalis and Acidum nitricum, associated with autohemotherapy. Complete remission of the papillomas occurred 30 days after treatment initiation, and the medication was maintained for six months to prevent recurrence. In conclusion, homeopathy and autohemotherapy can reorganize defense cells, providing the body with evident clinical improvement.

Pit bulls and prejudice.

Pit bulls and prejudice.

A Preliminary Study on the Interplay between the Serum Levels of Neurotransmitters and Thyroid Hormones for the Evaluation of the Behavioral Phenotype of Dogs.

A total of 112 dogs (49 males and 63 females) belonging to different breeds (i.e., Boxer, Cirneco dell'Etna, Fonni's Dog, Labrador, Crossbreed, German Shepherd, Pit Bull, Shar-Pei, Yorkshire) were analyzed to compare the serum concentration of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, prolactin, beta-endorphins, thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and assess whether these parameters can be correlated with the behavioral phenotype of the investigated breeds. T4 was above or below the threshold in 61% and 14% of dogs, respectively; T3, in contrast, 41% of dogs showed values below the limit, while 26% above it. TSH was within the reference range in 58% of dogs; 94% of the dogs had prolactin in the reference range and only five animals showed values above the limit. For beta-endorphins, 49% of dogs had values above the limit, while 46% had values within the reference range. Serotonin and dopamine values below physiological limits were found in 62% and 70% of dogs, respectively. Finally, 61% of the dogs showed norepinephrine values within the reference range. The study confirmed that the assessment of the serum values of hormones and neurotransmitters in dogs could be useful to better understand the behavioral phenotype of the animal and could be useful for breeders and trainers for the selection of the most suitable subjects for specific tasks.

Surgical Studies on Disorders of Eyes, Mouth and Nose in domestic dogs: A Retrospective Clinical Study

This study was aimed to describe the most frequently recorded disorders in dogs in Alexandria Government and provides a prevalence baseline against which to measure progress in canine health. The surgical conditions affecting the eyes, mouth and nose and its surrounding structures are numerous. These conditions affect adversely the general health condition of the animal as it is causing disruption of the important biological processes in the body. In the present study, a total number of 422 pet animals suffering from different surgical conditions were recorded. The surgical conditions of the eye and its surrounding structures represented about 25.11% of the encountered surgical conditions along this study with maximum incidence of diseases of nictating membrane. Meanwhile, the surgical conditions of the mouth and their surrounding structures were recorded in 14.21% of the encountered surgical conditions. The surgical conditions of the nose represent 0.47 %. The results of the present study revealed that the surgical conditions affecting the eyes and its related structures were recorded in 106 cases. These conditions include eyelid laceration and trauma (17 cases), eye lid abscess (1 case), eye lid neoplasia (2 cases), entropion (10 cases), neonatal defect in eyelid opening (5 cases), eye proptosis (2 cases), eye infection (1 case) and diseases of nictating membrane (68 cases). The mouth and nose disorders include dental tartar (13 cases), periodontal diseases (3 cases), persisting deciduous teeth and polydontium (3 cases), neoplastic lesion (3 cases), foreign body in mouth (22 cases), lip wound (16 cases), and epistaxis (2 cases). Most of the surgical disorders of the mouth and related structures affected the animal health and usually associated with difficult mastication. These disorders usually required immediate surgical interferences. German Shepherd, Rottweiler and Pit bull recorded highest incidence of disorders with maximum cases in young age group up to 2 years 104 cases (24.63%) of age. Sex wise incidence was higher in male 101 cases (23.91%) dogs.

Prevalence of Dental and Skeletal Malocclusions in Mesaticephalic and Dolichocephalic Dogs-a Retrospective Study (2015-2018).

Medical records of dogs with dolico- or mesaticephalic conformation who were presented to a private veterinary referral dental practice with malocclusion of the deciduous or permanent dentition were retrospectively reviewed from a 3-year period (2015-2018). Records were evaluated to determine the type(s) of malocclusions and 198 dogs were evaluated with permanent malocclusions. Of the dogs with deciduous malocclusions, 45 (60%) had variations of a MAL1, 28 (38%) had a MAL2, 13 (17.6%) had a MAL3, and four (5.4%) had a MAL4, with 19 (26%) having more than one type of malocclusion. Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels consisted of 37 (50%) of the dogs with deciduous malocclusions. Fifty-five (74%) dogs proceeded with interceptive orthodontics. Of the dogs with permanent malocclusions, 128 (65%) had a variant of a MAL1, 60 (30%) had a MAL2, 75 (38%) had a MAL3, and 11 (5.6%) had a MAL4, with a MAL1 occurring concurrently with 49 (82%) MAL2 cases. The most common type of MAL1 was linguoversion of one or both mandibular canine teeth in 92 (72%) dogs. The five most commonly affected breeds with permanent malocclusions were Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas, Pit Bull Terriers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Overall, 39 (18%) dogs presented with malocclusions observed in this study were associated with the Poodle breed and 20 (9%) dogs were associated with the Labrador Retriever breed. This trend among Poodle mixes and Labrador Retrievers supports a familial pattern to malocclusions.

Novel Homozygous ADAMTS2 Variants and Associated Disease Phenotypes in Dogs with Dermatosparactic Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Tissue fragility, skin hyperextensibility and joint hypermobility are defining characteristics of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Human EDS is subclassified into fourteen types including dermatosparactic EDS, characterized by extreme skin fragility and caused by biallelic ADAMTS2 mutations. We report two novel, ADAMTS2 variants in DNA from EDS-affected dogs. Separate whole-genome sequences from a Pit Bull Terrier and an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog each contained a rare, homozygous variant (11:2280117delC, CanFam3.1), predicted to produce a frameshift in the transcript from the first coding ADAMTS2 exon (c.10delC) and a severely truncated protein product, p.(Pro4ArgfsTer175). The clinical features of these dogs and 4 others with the same homozygous deletion included multifocal wounds, atrophic scars, joint hypermobility, narrowed palpebral fissures, skin hyperextensibility, and joint-associated swellings. Due to severe skin fragility, the owners of all 6 dogs elected euthanasia before the dogs reached 13 weeks of age. Cross sections of collagen fibrils in post-mortem dermal tissues from 2 of these dogs showed hieroglyphic-like figures similar to those from cases of severe dermatosparaxis in other species. The whole-genome sequence from an adult Catahoula Leopard Dog contained a homozygous ADAMTS2 missense mutation, [11:2491238G>A; p.(Arg966His)]. This dog exhibited multifocal wounds, atrophic scars, and joint hypermobility, but has survived for at least 9 years. This report expands the spectrum of clinical features of the canine dermatosparactic subtype of EDS and illustrates the potential utility of subclassifying canine EDS by the identity of gene harboring the causal variant.