Health Information

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

is a disease that affects the spinal cord and hind limbs which can lead to weakness and eventually paralysis.  Early signs include dragging their feet, losing their balance, and having a hard time standing after laying down.  This disease is recessive, meaning that it must be passed down by both parents for the puppy to have a higher predisposition to being affected.  Research shows that only a percentage of dogs At-Risk for DM will develop the disease.  Though it usually affects dogs in their senior years, some dogs can develop DM as early as age 7.  

Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)

is a neuromuscular disorder that presents itself as an exercise intolerance in otherwise healthy dogs.  Diagnosis of this condition usually occurs before two years of age.  Research indicates that your dog does not experience any pain during episodes where they may become wobbly or collapse for 5-25 minutes.  However, they may become confused or lose consciousness.  This condition is also recessive and must be passed down by both parents for the puppy to be affected.  Carriers of the gene will not develop the disease.

Von Willebrand Disease I (VWDI)

is a bleeding disorder where affected dogs lack the normal amount of an essential protein needed for normal blood clotting (coagulation factor vWf).  Though it is also recessive and must be passed by both parents, affected dogs may not be equally affected because vWf amounts are variable.  Common signs of the disease include frequent nosebleeds and bruising.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

is when the retina degenerates and eventually causes blindness.  Diagnosis is as early as 8 weeks old in puppies, and early signs include night blindness before full blindness by 1 to 4 years old.  It is also recessive in nature, so an affected dog must inherit a copy of the mutation from both parents.

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The next two on the list, IVDD and hip dysplasia, have a genetic and environmental component, so they are much more complex than testing Clear, Carrier, or At-Risk.

Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)

is a degenerative disease that affects the spine (disk rupture).  Corgis' build makes them more prone to this disease than some other breeds.  Preventative measures include not allowing your corgi to jump off furniture and maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight puts strain on the spine, increasing the risk of a herniated disk.

Hip Dysplasia

affects the alignment of the ball and socket of the hip joint, increasing the risk of arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases.  Early signs include limited range of motion, unwillingness to move around, limping, and pain.  If you notice these in your pet, it's important to have them checked by your vet.  It's recommended to pay close attention to a corgi's hips during regular checkups.  

Obesity

is a major concern for corgis that can put your corgi at a higher risk for other diseases and illness such as IVDD, hip dysplasia, diabetes, and even cancer.  Adequate exercise and a healthy diet can help manage their weight.  It's recommended to consult with your vet on healthy foods and exercise regimes.  

Periodontal Disease

affects the roots of their teeth.  Regularly brushing your dog's teeth and professional teeth cleaning as recommended by your vet can help prevent dental issues.