Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy 2D / LGMDR3 (SGCA-related) - Miniature Dachshund

What does this test analyse?

This genetic test analyses the SGCA c.224G>A variant in the Miniature Dachshund. The condition is named limb-girdle muscular dystrophy 2D, LGMDR3 and alpha-sarcoglycanopathy.

SGCA encodes alpha-sarcoglycan, a protein that helps keep the muscle fibre membrane stable during movement.

What does this condition mean?

Affected Miniature Dachshunds can develop exercise intolerance, stiff gait, swallowing difficulties, muscle breakdown and pneumonia from a young age. The condition is progressive and can have a clear impact on mobility and welfare.

Inheritance and result

The trait is inherited as autosomal recessive. One copy makes a dog a carrier; two copies cause the genetically affected genotype.

Practical value of this test

• The test distinguishes clear dogs, carriers and genetically affected or risk-positive dogs.
• The result helps breeders plan matings and avoid risk pairings.
• Variant status can be documented clearly within lines, families and breeding advice.
• The test reveals risky carrier pairings before puppies are produced.
• For Miniature Dachshund breeders, the result helps keep a serious progressive muscle disorder out of breeding lines.

This test assesses the known SGCA variant; other causes of muscle weakness or exercise intolerance fall outside this specific variant analysis.