Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (NAD) - Spanish water dog

Neuroaxonal dystrophy (NAD) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease in Spanish water dogs and some other breeds. NAD is characterized by neurodegenerative pathology of the central and peripheral nervous system. Affected Spanish water dogs show various neurological deficits including gait abnormalities, behavioural deficits (dullness, nervousness…) and incontinence alone or in combination with uncontrolled defecation.

Hahn et. al. reported that NAD in Spanish water dogs is juvenile-onset. Neurological signs starting between six and eleven months of age. All affected dogs from the study were euthanized between 12 and 23 months of age.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: TECPR2 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.