Details about the disease
CT is a hereditary disease that leads to the build-up of dietary copper in the liver, causing illness and death.
Clinical signs
This disease does not typically show any signs in the earlier stages. Clinical effects of this disorder are commonly related to any effects associated with the liver such as weight loss, anorexia, depression, vomiting, weakness, lethargy (lack of energy) and dehydration.
As this disease progresses, the dog may encounter problems such as ecchymotic hemorrhages (bruising), and may cause melena (blood in the stool).
Without treatment, affected dogs develop liver disease and die, usually between 3 to 7 years of age.
How is it inherited?
CT is caused by the deletion in the gene COMMD1. While the test for this mutation is definitive, it is possible that there are other genetic causes of CT not yet identified.
The disease is described as an autosomal-recessive condition. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from its mother and one from its father) before its health is affected. A dog that inherits only one copy of the abnormal gene (from its mother or its father) will have no signs of the disease, but will be a carrier and may pass the gene on to any offspring.
Which laboratories do we record and publish the results from?
To find out which laboratories The Kennel Club is able to record results from, and which laboratories will send results directly to The Kennel Club, please refer to our website.
Please be aware, The Kennel Club has a set of criteria that we request DNA testing laboratories to meet to enable us to record their results, helping to maintain and protect the integrity of results that appear on a dog’s record. We strongly advise that customers ensure their chosen laboratory is included on our list if they wish The Kennel Club to record and publish the results. Results from laboratories not included on this list will not be recorded.
Breeding advice and what your dog's results mean
If, once your dog is DNA tested, you would like to find out what their DNA test results mean, or how to select the right mate to avoid producing affected puppies, then please read our breeding advice and DNA testing information.
How to find out if a potential mate has been DNA tested
The Kennel Club’s Health Test Results Finder allows you to find the results of DNA tests carried out as part of official Kennel Club DNA testing schemes for any dog on The Kennel Club’s Breed Register.