More Info

Did you know?

Many dogs are so small that the effects of this FGF4 variant will not be evident. Some surprising purebreds that commonly carry this gene, but don't obviously show the trait include the Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, and Japanese Chin. Short legs are a competitive advantage for terriers, who are better able to fit into holes and burrows after prey without a significant loss in power. They are also a preferred characteristic for some breeds used for hunting on foot, such as the Basset Hound, as the hunter is better able to keep up with a dog with shorter legs.

How it works

Dogs with one copy of the Short Legs (CDPA) variant typically have some shortening of their legs, whereas with two copies there is more obvious shortening.

Health implications

Chondrodysplasia can cause limitation in mobility for some dogs.