MDR1 is a gene that indicates if a herding dog is genetically prone to be sensitive to certain drugs. These drugs can cause seizures and even result in death. While this is scary we know the drugs that seem to cause issues for our dogs. I have listed them below. The most important thing to know is that regardless of carrying 2 copies, 1 copy, or even zero copies of the gene, Australian Shepherds (herding dogs) are known for being sensitive to these drugs. With that in mind every single Australian Shepherd should be treated as if they are MDR1 positive.
With most genes it takes 2 copies of a gene to be affected. MDR1 is an incomplete dominate gene meaning that it only takes 1 copy to be at risk of being affected. With that in mind, you might be wondering why you would want treat all Aussies as they have MDR1, if MDR1 is the gene that tells us if they are affected. The answer to that is that we don't know all of the genetic markers in dogs just yet. In fact, scientists studying this drug sensitivity believe there is yet another genetic marker that may also be responsible for drug sensitivities. So while we know some information to help protect our dogs we don't know everything. The test for MDR1 is simply a tool to help us know only part of the problem.
Another important thing to consider is a first time dose of these drugs may not be what causes your dog issues. While it can cause and immediate reaction, we are learning that it may well be the consistent use over time that can cause issues. So years down the road your dog may experience issues.
To see the most current list provided by the Washington State University click the link below.
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