Species: Dog
Condition: Lethal Acrodermatitis
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
Lethal acrodermatitis is a condition which is almost unique to the Bull Terrier and is caused by an inability to metabolize zinc correctly. If your pup has this condition, they are likely to be small and grow slowly. As the condition progresses, you will notice reddening and crusting of the skin around the mouth and eyes, on the ears, and between the toes. Your pup will also be extremely vulnerable to serious secondary infections such as chronic skin infections, pneumonia, and/or diarrhoea. There is currently no treatment for this disorder and the impact to your dog is so severe that it may be kindest to have them put to sleep.
Breeds exposed to Lethal Acrodermatitis – Research Reference
Golden Retriever Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Dobermann Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
West Highland White Terrier Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Doberman Pinscher – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Doberman Pinscher Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Golden Doodle (Groodle) – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Cavoodle – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
American Pit Bull Terrier – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Dobermann – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Golden Retriever – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Parson Jack Russell Terrier – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
West Highland White Terrier – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Parson Jack Russell Terrier Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
American Pit Bull Terrier Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Lethal Acrodermatitis or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
