A cleft palate is a birth defect occuring in the embryonic development of a dog in which the roof of the mouth does not form properly, leaving a gap or fissure. Often, puppies that are born with a cleft palate are euthanized.

Indications that a puppy may have a cleft palate are difficulty nursing or milk seeping from the puppy’s nose. The puppy may also sneeze and cough frequently, as well as fail to gain weight.

It is believed that there may be a hereditary component to the development of this condition. In addition, it is also suspected that vitamin imbalance and toxins may play a role. Studies have shown that mother dogs who have not been given enough vitamin A or vitamin D are a greater risk for having puppies with cleft palates.