Scientists have discovered a gene mutation in dogs that is a major cause of severe breathing problems, in addition to the shape of their snouts. By excluding these animals from breeding, the spread of the mutation could be limited in the future, according to the authors of the study. The domestication of wolves into dogs by humans began about 15,000 years ago. In some dog breeds that resulted from this process, flat snouts have led to severe breathing problems. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have now found that in addition to selective breeding, gene mutations in some breeds are also responsible for breathing difficulties. A genetic variant that occurs mainly in Norwich Terriers causes swelling that can block the airway and trigger the typical panting and wheezing.
The scientists concluded that in addition to the anatomy of the snout, there must be other factors that contribute to panting and wheezing in Norwich Terriers. The team led by Thomas Marchant then searched for changes in the DNA of 401 Norwich Terriers to identify the causes. They also checked whether there were any anatomical changes in the airways of the animals. A mutation in the ADAMTS3 gene was found to be the source of breathing problems, which had already been identified in previous studies as the cause of swelling and fluid accumulation in the airways. The mutation was also found in French and English Bulldogs, which explains why some dogs continue to have breathing problems even after surgery.
Jeffrey Schoenebeck, one of the researchers, explained that while the shape of the skull and snout is a major risk factor for BOAS, the study shows that the ADAMTS3 gene should also be considered as a cause of the condition. In the future, the researchers hope to be able to identify dogs that are at high risk of developing BOAS early on, making medical treatment easier. Additionally, by excluding affected animals from breeding, the spread of the mutation could be limited.
