Alaskan Malamute chrondrodysplasia is an inherited disease, found almost exclusively in Alaskan Malamutes, that causes birth defects in which the puppy will have abnormally short or deformed legs.

Chrondrodysplasia causes puppies to have abnormally short or deformed legs.

Alaskan Malamute chrondrodysplasia is a recessively inherited disease so it must be present in both parents for offspring to contract this disease. If only one parent has the gene, the puppies may be carriers but will show no symptoms. If both parents have the gene but not the disease, there is a 1 in 4 chance for each offspring to develop this condition, and any or all of the puppies may be carriers.

A physical examination including blood work and x-rays are required to diagnose Alaskan Malamute chrondrodysplasia.

There is no treatment for Alaskan Malamute chrondrodysplasia. Depending on the disease’s severity, your vet might suggest some surgical procedures designed to enhance your dog’s quality of life.

Since Alaskan Malamute chrondrodysplasia is a recessively inherited condition, careful study of the breeding pairs family histories can prevent Alaskan Malamute.

Reputable breeders screen parents for this condition and register their dogs and test results with the Alaskan Malamute Club of America (AMCA). The AMCA issues a rating for each registered dog based on family history and test results to calculate the probability of the dog’s offspring developing chrondrodysplasia. Uncertified dogs and dogs with a CHD rating above 6.25% should not be bred.

No, you cannot contract Alaskan Malamute Chondrodysplasia from your dog.