Details about the disease
PHPT results from an inappropriate and excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) into the blood. As a result of this, calcium levels rise above normal levels, which if undetected, can lead to too much calcium within the body and a number of associated symptoms.
Clinical signs
PHPT-affected dogs produce too much parathyroid hormone, which in turn reduces the amount calcium from bones and excess calcium in blood. Affected dogs may show a range of symptoms including excessive thirst, bone pain, being tired or lethargic, weight loss and tummy-upset. If left untreated, the disease may lead to kidney failure. The age at onset varies between dogs, but mostly takes hold at older age, around 10-11 years.
How is it inherited?
The disease is described as an autosomal-dominant condition. This means that a dog need only inherit one copy of an abnormal gene (either from its mother or its father) before its health is affected.
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 The Kennel Club's official DNA testing schemes for any dog on The Kennel Club’s Breed Register.