Particularly common in cocker spaniels and Old English sheepdogs, as well as several other breeds. Common in miniature schnauzers and Shetland sheepdogs. Commonly associated with hypothyroidism. An autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland which affects more than 50 dog breeds. Commonly involves the shoulder, stifle, hock or elbow.
Renal failure develops with protein loss in urine.
Occurs in 59 dog breeds but most often in Doberman pinschers. An autosomal trait affecting both sexes.