Congenital Hypothyroidism (CHG) - French Bulldog

Congenital hypothyroidism with goiter (CHG) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder affecting the thyroid gland. Generally, CHG is an adult-onset disorder, but sometimes it also occurs in the neonatal period. It affects different dog breeds including Spanish water dog, Fox terrier, Tenterfield terrier, and French bulldog. Improper activity of specific proteins leads to inadequate levels of thyroid hormones, which manifests in symptoms like developmental delay, hypothyroidism, enlarged thyroid glands, and signs collectively known as cretinism. Puppies show signs of inactivity, delayed opening of eyes and ear canals. French bulldogs exhibit some unusual phenotypic features with near-normal epiphyseal ossification and closure which is in contrast with other breeds of dogs that do exhibit delayed closure of long bone and epiphyseal ossification.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: TPO gene

Genetic test: The method used for testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers, and healthy dogs. Testing can be done at any age.