Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis

Body function:

Skin

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Hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the FAM83G gene. It causes an excess of keratin to grow in the footpads, ultimately leading to pain, infection, and difficulty walking. This condition is inherited in the autosomal recessive fashion, meaning both parents must be carriers of the mutation for a litter to risk developing the condition.

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List of affected breeds:

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

Bedlington Terrier

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis. Treatment includes managing associated symptoms with topical ointments to soften feet and antibiotics for any infections that may arise.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis typically appear around 6 months of age. Dogs with the condition have hard, thickened foot pads, often with growths around the rim. Footpads form deep cracks, subjecting dogs to pain, infections, and difficulty walking. In some cases, dogs with hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis have more dull and softer hair than normal.

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