Babies born with Down’s syndrome have an extra chromosome in their cells. This genetic disorder impacts their physical and mental development. Babies born with Down’s syndrome are also more likely to develop certain health conditions, including heart disease, seizures and dental problems. The treatment and outlook for puppies with similar developmental challenges depends on the underlying illness and its severity.
What is Down’s syndrome and its ’equivalents’ in dogs?
Every year, around 1 in 854 human babies is born with Down’s syndrome in the UK. They have an extra chromosome in their cells. Chromosomes store the genetic blueprints that programme body and brain development. Dogs have different chromosomes to humans, so they aren’t affected by Down’s syndrome. But vets regularly see puppies with ‘Down’s-like’ symptoms.
Puppies born with any of the following disorders have physical and developmental challenges that will resemble Down’s syndrome in humans:
- Congenital (from birth) hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
- Pituitary dwarfism: Growth hormone deficiency
- Congenital hydrocephalus: Build up of fluid in the brain at birth
- Portosystemic shunt: A blood vessel abnormality. Blood from the intestine bypasses the liver, the body’s major ‘processing plant’; causes nutritional deficiencies and toxic effects.
Symptoms that look like Down’s syndrome in dogs
A comparison of Down’s and the symptoms seen in puppies with congenital abnormalities
| Down’s Syndrome Features | Symptoms in puppies |
| Shorter-than-average height. A short neck. Small ears, hands, and feet | Poor growth: smaller than littermates, shorter limbs, puppy-like stature |
| Hearing loss | Hearing problems: slow to respond to voice commands or cues. Easily spooked by unexpected or unheard approach. |
| A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose Almond-shaped eyes that slant upwards | Abnormal facial features: very domed forehead (apple head). Eyes seem to look downwards. |
| A single line across the palm of the hand (palmar crease) | Skin problems: retain a soft puppy coat; dry scurfy skin; hair loss |
| Delayed and impaired learning | Slower house-training |
| Increased risk of certain other illnesses: congenital heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures. | Congenital heart disease: weakness, panting, poor growth Gastrointestinal disorders: vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, poor growth Fits and seizures |
Are some dogs more at risk of showing Down’s-like symptoms?
Certain dog breeds are more likely to have the health conditions resulting in Down’s-like symptoms:
Congenital hydrocephalus and Portosystemic shunts:
- Toy breeds and brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds: Chihuahua, Manchester Terrier, Toy Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, English Bulldog and Pekingese
Pituitary Dwarfism:
- German Shepherds
How do vets investigate conditions that look like Down’s in dogs?
Physical symptoms, such as poor growth, may alert you and your vet to problems with your dog’s development. The vet may then suggest:
- Blood tests: for general and specific health checks; hormone tests.
- Imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound
- Advanced imaging: CT or MRI to examine key blood vessels and the brain
- Genetic tests
What’s the treatment for dogs with Down’s-like symptoms?
Treatment depends on the underlying condition. Options may include:
- Medication: Hormone supplements, nutritional support
- Surgery: Repairing blood vessel abnormalities causing shunts; relieving pressure on the brain due to hydrocephalus.
Not all dogs with symptoms similar to Down’s need treatment. Some toy breeds may be only mildly affected by hydrocephalus, for example. On the other hand, dogs with pituitary dwarfism rarely survive beyond 4-5 years old without treatment.
With appropriate treatment and support, many dogs can live happy and full lives.
Looking after a dog with Down’s-type symptoms
There aren’t any home remedies for these conditions. But some support is an essential part of their management:
- Give your dog all prescribed medicines at the correct dose and times
- Coat care: shampoos, supplements and regular grooming help to support a healthy coat
- Mobility support: use stair gates, cushions, furniture edge protectors and ramps to support dogs suffering from weakness or possible seizures
- Feed a quality diet appropriate for your dog’s health and life stage
Preventing Down’s-like syndromes in dogs
It’s not possible to prevent all of the congenital or birth problems in dogs. Pre-breeding genetic tests for male and female dogs can reduce the risk of certain illnesses. As will not breeding from affected dogs.
While dogs don’t get Down’s syndrome, they can be born with conditions that mimic its symptoms. These can affect your puppy’s growth and development, and early intervention is key. If you’re concerned about your puppy’s development or notice any unusual symptoms, speak to a vet for guidance on diagnosis and treatment options.
Our Joii vets are here to help 24/7 through the Joii app, offering expert advice and support to ensure your dog receives the best care possible. Call us now if you have any concerns.
