Dry eye and curly coat, known scientifically as congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca and ichtyosiform dermatosis, affects a dog’s eyes and skin. Affected dogs produce no tears making their eyes incredibly sore. Their skin becomes very flaky and dry, particularly around the foot, and this can make standing and walking difficult and painful. This syndrome appears to be a problem unique to CKCS and most dogs diagnosed with the condition are put to sleep.

Early in 2011 Geneticists at the AHT identified a recessive mutation associated with Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome.  A DNA test has been developed which will provide a useful diagnostic tool to the veterinary profession and dog breeders. The test will be available from 18^th April 2011.  The DNA test is specific to the mutation causing Dry Eye and Curly Coat Syndrome.  

Breeders using the test will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one of three categories:

CLEAR: these dogs have two normal copies of DNA.  Clear dogs will not be affected by Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome as a result of the associated mutation identified.

 CARRIER: these dogs have one copy of the mutation and one normal copy of DNA. These dogs will not develop Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome themselves but they will pass the mutation on to approximately 50% of their offspring.

 AFFECTED: these dogs have two copies of the mutation associated with Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome and will be clinically affected.