Lysosomal storage diseases are actually a group of disorders in which your dog’s enzymes do not function properly. The result of the enzyme malfunction is that your dog’s cells are not properly “cleaned” which makes them unable to perform normally and, in some cases, will cause the cells to die.

Lysosomal storage diseases are hereditary. Though lysosomal storage diseases may impact any breed or mix, certain breeds are over-represented. These breeds include Akitas, Border Collies, English Setters and Portoguese Water Dogs.

Lysosomal storage diseases are relatively uncommon. However, they are fatal.

Lysosomal storage diseases can impact both your dog’s physical and mental functions. However, most commonly, the disease impacts your dog’s neurological functions.

Symptoms will generally develop by the time a puppy is six months old. Symptoms include lethargy, inability to stand and shaking. Symptoms will likely worsen to potentially include blindness, seizures, paralysis and death.

If your vet suspects a lysosomal storage disease based on your dog's symptoms, there is specific diagnostic test in which enzymes from your dog’s blood sample are assessed.

Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this fatal disease.

Since these diseases are hereditary, do not breed a dog with a lysosomal storage disease or who is a carrier of a lysosomal storage disease (for many lysosomal storage diseases, a blood test can determine whether a dog is a carrier of a lysosomal storage disease gene). Do not acquire a puppy who has a family history of lysosomal storage diseases.

No, you cannot contract lysosomal storage disease from your dog.