GM-1 Storage disease is a rare disease which affects humans and Portuguese Water Dogs. In dogs, it is a genetically transmitted fatal metabolic disorder which occurs when two carrier dogs are bred. Affected puppies will not reach adulthood. Non-Carrier, Carrier and Indeterminate PWDs have a normal life expectancy.
A DNA blood test is now available through Optimal Selection www.optimal-selection.com/optimal_selection_dogs/. The NYU lab is no longer offering this test. Optigen is the only lab patented to provide this test for PWDs. No lab in Canada is authorized or licensed to provide this test.
Results of the blood test will determine “Normal” or “Carrier” status of the tested dog. Certificates are issued for all tested dogs. Information and application forms are available at Health Forms in this section of the PWDCC web site.