Description:

Ichthyosis is an autosomal recessive genetic mutation that affects the skin of Golden Retrievers. The mutation prevents the outer layer of the epidermis from forming properly, resulting in skin that becomes darkened and thick, with excessive flaking.

The name "Ichthyosis" is derived from the Greek word for fish. This describes the skin's resemblance to fish scales. The most common symptom of ICH-A is excessive flaking of the skin. Other symptoms include areas of hardened skin and hyperpigmentation, which may make the skin appear dirty or blackened. Symptoms can be mild or severe. Evidence of the disease may be detected when the dog is still a puppy, but symptoms may take a year or more to develop. Additionally, symptoms can improve or worsen, depending on stress and hormonal cycles.

Ichthyosis is generally not dangerous to a dog's health, but can be unsightly and uncomfortable for the dog. ICH-A is frequently related to other health issues such as yeast overgrowth and fungal infections. A dog diagnosed with ICH-A will usually require more care with special shampoos and treatments.

ICH-A is unfortunately quite common in Golden Retrievers, but can be identified with a simple DNA test. A dog with ICH-A would need to inherit the mutation from both parents, as the mutation is autosomal recessive. Asymptomatic carriers and affected dogs can be identified prior to breeding to avoid producing offspring with ICH-A.

Results:

The genetic test verifies the presence of the Ichthyosis-A mutation and presents results as one of the following:

Ich/Ich = Affected

The dog carries two copies of the mutant gene and is homozygous for Ichthyosis-A. The dog is likely to be affected by Ichthyosis and will always pass a copy of the mutation to its offspring.

Ich/n = Carrier

Both the normal and mutant copies of the gene were detected. Dog is a carrier for the Ichthyosis-A mutation and can pass on a copy of the defective gene to its offspring.

n/n = Clear

Dog tested negative for the Ichthyosis-A mutation and will not pass on the defective gene to its offspring.

As Rufus is CLEAR and carries no mutated genes and Poppy carries one normal and one mutated gene, then approximately 50% of thier litter will be CLEAR and 50% of their litter will have one mutated gene and be CARRIERS (like Poppy). 

NONE of their pups will have Ichthyosis. 

Any buyer wishing to breed their pup will be advised to test for Ichthyosis, and if they are carriers, not to breed with another carrier. 

If you have any questions, please contact me and I will happily discuss this further.