Table: Commonly Reported Congenital and Inherited Defects in Dogs

Commonly Reported Congenital and Inherited Defects in Dogs

Neurologic defects Congenital and Inherited Disorders of the Nervous System in Dogs Some congenital defects (defects present at birth) are inherited from the parents, while others are caused by environmental factors in the womb, such as nutritional deficiencies or some viral... read more
Digestive tract defects Congenital and Inherited Disorders of the Digestive System of Dogs Congenital abnormalities are conditions that an animal is born with; they are often called “birth defects.” Some of these conditions are inherited and tend to occur within particular families... read more
Heart defects Congenital and Inherited Disorders of the Cardiovascular System in Dogs Congenital abnormalities of the cardiovascular system are defects that are present at birth. They can occur as a result of genetic defects, environmental conditions, infections, poisoning, medication... read more
Skeletal muscle defects Congenital and Inherited Disorders of Bones, Joints, and Muscles in Dogs Animals that contract viral infections in the womb may be born with diseased or deformed musculoskeletal systems. Abnormalities may also be congenital (present at birth) if a mother eats toxic... read more
Cryptorchidism Cryptorchidism Several reproductive diseases can affect male dogs. This section discusses the most common of these disorders. Cryptorchidism is a failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum... read more (apparent absence of one or both testicles)
Hip or elbow dysplasia Hip Dysplasia Animals that contract viral infections in the womb may be born with diseased or deformed musculoskeletal systems. Abnormalities may also be congenital (present at birth) if a mother eats toxic... read more

Many other congenital and inherited conditions are also reported in dogs, though they are less common. Please see individual body system chapters for more information.

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Commonly Reported Congenital and Inherited Defects in Dogs