Border Collie Collapse Syndrome*

Border Collie Collapse Syndrome is an exercise induced collapse seen in several breeds including Shetland Sheepdogs. It is not the same as Exercise Induced Collapse of Labrador Retrievers or the result of heat stroke. “Affected dogs are normal at rest and seem healthy. Typical collapse episodes begin 5 – 15 min after onset of exercise and include disorientation, dull mentation or loss of focus; swaying, staggering and falling to the side; exaggerated lifting of each limb while walking and a choppy gait; scuffing of the rear and/or forelegs, and crossing of the legs when turning.”

Researchers at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota are studying the problem. Even though the web page describing the syndrome and study primarily talks about Border Collies, participation of Sheltie owners is welcome and encouraged. There is strong evidence of the problem being a genetic trait, but it is likely to be a more complex one rather than a simple one-locus Mendelian trait. Videos of affected dogs, additional information about the problem and information needed to participate in the study may be found at the following website: http://www.vetmed.umn.edu/departments/veterinary-and-biomedical-sciences/research/canine-genetics-lab/genetic-research/border-collie-collapse

*1st posted in 2014. The research group is still accepting DNA samples from affected dogs.

Study on Inheritance of Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease*

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCP) is a disorder of hip joint conformation occurring in
both humans and dogs. In dogs, it is most often seen in the miniature and small breed
dogs. Shetland Sheepdogs are on the list of affected breeds. The age on onset of
clinical signs (lameness) occurs from 4 – 12 months of age with 9 months of age being
more common.
Researchers at Cornell University have located a region on canine chromosome 6 that
appears to be related to the development of LCP. [1} They are continuing the search for
the exact causative mutation(s) in hopes of developing a genetic test that can be used
by breeders.
To participate in the study, go to the following website and scroll down the page to the section on LCP: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments/centers/cornell-veterinary-biobank/open-studies
[1] Getting closer to the cause of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease -
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/news/20211019/getting-closer-cause-legg-calve-
perthes-disease

*More information about LCP can be found on the OFA website