Hereditary deafness / EAOD (CDH23-related) - Beauceron

What does this test assess?

This genetic test analyzes the CDH23 variant c.700C>T for Hereditary deafness / EAOD in the Beauceron. The condition is also described as hereditary deafness, EAOD, early-onset adult deafness, CDH23-related deafness and non-syndromic sensorineural deafness.

What does this condition mean?

This disorder affects hearing. In affected Beaucerons, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss has been described, without coat colour or other visible traits reliably predicting the result. The CDH23 gene encodes cadherin 23, a protein important for hair cells in the inner ear and for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals.

Inheritance and result

The trait is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition. Dogs with two copies of the tested variant are expected to be affected. Carriers have one copy, often look healthy and can still pass the variant on.

• Clear: the tested variant was not detected.
• Carrier: one copy of the variant was detected; this is mainly important for breeding plans.
• Affected: two copies of the variant were detected; this genotype causes this condition for this variant.

When is testing useful?

Testing is useful for breeding animals, young Beaucerons from lines in which deafness occurs and when carriers need to be identified before a mating is planned. A genetic result makes the risk of affected puppies visible in advance, even when the parents themselves appear to hear normally.

Practical value of this test

The test makes hidden carrier status visible and helps breeders, veterinarians and owners make decisions based on concrete genetic information.

• Helps identify carriers before breeding.
• Supports avoiding carrier-to-carrier matings.
• Adds clarity when hearing problems occur in a line.
• Makes breeding advice and communication with puppy buyers more concrete.