Because these skin variations so exemplify SA, the descriptions provided will be listed below in categories. The next question was regarding any related dogs with SA, either owned by the respondent or not. Six Standard Poodle owners reported specific dogs closely related to their SA dog, and one knew of four others in the pedigree. One person owns six Poodles affected with SA, and knows of 18 others related. Three of the Lhasa Apsos in the survey were cousins, and the sire of one of the Lhasas has a skin problem that has been diagnosed as a fungal infection, but has never been biopsied.
Relatives range from littermates to grand-parents.
It should be noted that many of the respondents have pets or rescue dogs and would not necessarily be familiar with family medical histories. Respondents were asked if any diagnosis other than SA was initially made, and how the incorrect diagnosis may have affected treatment. Eight dogs did not get a definitive diagnosis at first but their vets tried various medicated shampoos that were ineffective. One person whose dog was being treated for SA said there was a major flare-up of the SA when two dosages of thyroid hormone were missed. The average amount of time between noticing the signs and receiving a proper diagnosis was 9 months.