Understanding Immune and Blood Health in Shetland Sheepdogs

Quick answer

Shetland Sheepdogs are known for a few specific health predispositions that involve how their bodies process certain substances and how their blood clots. While these conditions can sound intimidating, being proactive with regular home monitoring and clear communication with your vet ensures that your dog receives the right care at the right time. Most health issues are manageable when caught early, so focus on tracking your dog's baseline behavior and physical condition.

MDR1 Mutation

The MDR1 mutation is a recognised tendency in the breed. This condition involves a genetic change that affects how the body handles certain drugs and chemicals. Because of this, your dog may be unable to clear specific medications from their system as effectively as other dogs. This can lead to a dangerous buildup of these substances, even at standard doses.

At home, you might notice your dog acting lethargic, having trouble with coordination, or showing signs of digestive upset after being given a new medication. The most common mistake owners make is administering over-the-counter flea, tick, or heartworm preventives without confirming their safety for a dog with this mutation. Always verify every medication with your vet before giving it to your dog.

Von Willebrand Disease

Von Willebrand Disease is a blood disorder that affects how well your dog's blood can clot. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. The condition can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with incomplete penetrance, known as Type 1, or as an autosomal recessive trait, known as Type 3. In both cases, the lack of a specific protein needed for clotting means that your dog may bleed for longer than normal after an injury or surgery.

At home, you might notice your dog has small spots of blood on their bedding, bleeding from the gums, or excessive bleeding from a minor scrape that does not seem to stop. The vet will likely perform specific blood tests to measure the clotting capability of your dog's blood. If your dog is scheduled for any procedure, even a routine dental cleaning, it is vital that your vet knows about this condition beforehand so they can take extra precautions to prevent excessive blood loss.

Establishing a Home Health Routine

Because these conditions can be subtle, performing a regular health check at home is your best tool. For adult dogs, a monthly check is sufficient, but for seniors, a weekly check is recommended. During this time, assess your dog's body condition score by feeling for their ribs, check that their gums are a healthy pink, observe their mobility, and listen to their breathing while they are resting. If you notice a change in their baseline behavior, such as sudden weakness or a change in gum color, record the observation and contact your vet to determine if an appointment is needed today or if it can wait until tomorrow.