Intestinal Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) Malabsorption (Beagle)

Body function:

Metabolic & Digestive

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Intestinal cobalamin (vitamin B12) malabsorption is a genetic condition that occurs in Beagles due to a mutation in the CUBN gene. It’s also known as Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome. The condition prevents the small intestine from properly absorbing cobalamin, commonly known as vitamin B12.

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List of affected breeds:

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

Beagle

A brown and white dog is running through a grassy field. The dog's tail is wagging, and it looks happy and energetic. There are some rocks and trees in the background.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

Intestinal cobalamin (vitamin B12) malabsorption can be easily treated by taking vitamin B12. Dogs with the condition must take this supplement for life.

Symptoms

Dogs with intestinal cobalamin (vitamin B12) malabsorption begin to show signs around 3 months of age. They experience delayed growth and become extremely weak. Other symptoms include emesis, gastrointestinal distress, and a low white blood cell count, affecting their ability to fight disease. Dogs with the condition are prone to liver disease and anemia.

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