[Autoimmune diseases in dogs and their impact for breeding programs with special reference of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever].

Autoimmune diseases are of considerable importance in dog breeding. An increased risk of diseases with genetic predisposition is present especially in breeds with a limited genetic diversity. Strict breeding regulations and a high degree of self responsibility of the breeders are essential to prevent these diseases. There are only a few DNA tests available for detecting carriers of genes predisposing for autoimmune diseases. In this review, we describe the special situation in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, who has a special predisposition for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and for Immune-mediated Rheumatoid Disease (IMRD), as well as for Steroid-Responsive Meningitis Arteritis (SRMA) and Juvenile Addison's Disease (JADD). In addition a short overview on the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease is presented.