Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (Norwegian Elkhound Type)

General Information: Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) in Norwegian Elkhounds is an inherited eye condition that typically presents in middle-aged dogs. As the disease progresses, increased eye pressure causes the eyeball to enlarge and become painful. Early signs of pain include excessive blinking, tearing, and redness. If left untreated, this pressure leads to optic nerve damage and gradual vision loss. Affected dogs are also at risk for lens luxation, where the lens dislocates within the eye. Symptoms of lens luxation include squinting, tearing, and excessive blinking. Forward dislocation is more common and serious, exacerbating glaucoma and leading to more severe vision loss if not treated promptly. Additional symptoms may include bulging eyes and cataracts.

How to Read Your Dog's Test Results for this Genetic Variant:

Two Variants Detected: Dog Likely Affected

One Variant Detected: Dog Unlikely Affected

No Variants Detected: No Effect

Gene / Testing Information: Genetic testing for POAG in Norwegian Elkhounds targets the ADAMTS10 gene. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to be affected. Carrier dogs, with one normal and one mutated gene, do not show symptoms but can pass the mutation to their offspring. If two carriers are bred, there is a 25% chance of producing an affected puppy and a 50% chance of producing a carrier. Genetic testing is crucial for responsible breeding practices to avoid producing affected pups. Breeding carriers only with dogs that do not carry the mutation helps eliminate this condition from breeding lines. Since symptoms may not appear until adulthood, it is essential to perform genetic testing before breeding to ensure healthy offspring.