Bajan Pomeranians
Genetics and Health
Alopecia X (Black Skin Disease)-
Black Skin Disease is known to occur in serveral breeds including the Pomeranian, the Keeshounden, Chow, and Alaskan Malamute. It is a condition in which the hair falls out and the skin turns black or gray. While this disease is not in itself life threatening, it certianly is not pleasant for you or for you Pomeranian. It's believed to be associated with the X Chromosome and visably affects males more often than females. It can occur at any age without warning. I've heard of it occuring as young as a five months to as much as ten years old before signs show up. There is no test that will determine if a particular dog will develope or carry this disease and that is part of the problem. Because of the unpredictability of the disease, breeders will often times breed the parents without any signs of genetic issues for years. In addition, it's an issue that many breeders would rather pretend doesn't exsist. This denial also adds to the problem. As breeders we need to be honest with each other and with our potential buyers about this problem if we ever hope to eradicate it from our breed. Extensive research is being done to locate a genetic marker by which to identify carriers. More information about Black Skin Disease and other canine disease can be found at the
AKC Canine Health Foundation
.
Patellas-
Like many breeds, slipped patellas can occur in Pomeranians. Your breeder should have already checked for this before your puppy goes home with you. Have your Vet check for this on your first visit. Patellas are graded in degrees of severity ranging between I and IV with I being fairly normal and IV requiring corrective surgery. It's not uncommon for slipped patellas to become a problem in a senior dog but when grade III or IV is seen in a puppy, it's a genetic issue that should not be bred. Please inform your breeder if this should occur.