ALLERGIES
Allergies can affect all breeds of dogs, including mixed breeds.
CANINE LEUKOCYTE ADHESION
DEFICIENCY (CLAD)
CLAD is a rare but hereditary immune system disorder that causes death in
puppies, usually from multiple infections. It is mainly known in Irish
setters in Europe but was found in one litter in the United States. The
bloodline from that litter is not in any current pedigrees. A test is
available that identifies dogs who are free of the recessive gene that
carries CLAD.
HYPOTHYROIDISM
Hypothyroidism is relatively common in Irish setters. Symptoms may include
lethargy, weight gain, and poor coat quality. The condition usual responds
well to treatment with thyroid hormone. Proper diagnosis of low thyroid
activity requires a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) response test in
addition to the standard T4 test.