Spinocerebellar Ataxia (Beagle)

Body function:

Muscle & Neurological

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SPTBN2-related spinocerebellar ataxia is a genetic condition caused by a mutation in the SPTBN2 gene. It is a neurological disorder that causes a severe lack of coordination. This condition is inherited in the autosomal recessive fashion, meaning both parents must be carriers of the mutation for a litter to be affected.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Beagle

A black and white dog with a happy expression is looking up at the camera with its mouth open. The dog's ears are perked up, and it appears to be excited.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for spinocerebellar ataxia. In some cases, dogs with the condition may be put down due to poor quality of life.

Symptoms

Dogs with SPTBN2-related spinocerebellar ataxia are extremely uncoordinated. They walk with a “goose-stepping” gait and often fall due to the condition. They also experience uncontrollable twitches and stiffness in their muscles. Dogs may be unable to stand upright altogether.

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