When we talk about the health problems that can affect our pets, the question often arises: Can these issues cross species boundaries? It’s not uncommon for humans and dogs to experience similar health conditions, such as anxiety, cancer, and diabetes. One genetic disorder that has garnered attention in humans is Down Syndrome. This leads us to an intriguing and somewhat complex question: Is it possible for a Micro Bully with Down Syndrome to exist?”
Just like humans, dogs also have some traits that can be an indication of down syndrome. So, if we own one of the most popular dog breeds like the micro bully, we wonder, if it is possible to have a micro bully with down syndrome. In order to understand this particular question, it is important that we understand what is a down syndrome, and what are the traits associated with this particular condition.
The Genetics of Down Syndrome: How It Relates to Micro Bullies
There are a number of people who may not have information regarding the down syndrome. It is basically a genetic disorder due to the division of abnormal cells that may result in the copy of a chromosome 21. The physical features and the developmental changes of the down syndrome are actually caused by this particular genetic material that is extra. It is possible for us to categorize down syndrome through physical features that are distinct.
When are see slanting eyes, flattened face and upwards, then you can be quite sure that one can have developmental delays and intellectual disabilities from mild to severe. It is worth mentioning that individuals with down syndrome tend to have medical issues, which includes hearing loss, eye disease and even heart defects. Similar to humans, if you are a micro bully enthusiast, you may have a micro bully with down syndrome.
Unraveling the Mystery: Is Down Syndrome Possible in Micro Bullies?
These days, it is easy for anyone to recognize and diagnose down syndrome in humans, but many people ask whether dogs can have down syndrome or not. One needs to keep in mind that both humans and dogs can have distinct genetic differences. When we have a look at the set of chromosomes, humans have 23, while dogs have 39. This particular condition appears when there is a chromosome 21 copy, yet the duplication of this chromosome can have different effects on humans and dogs.
Although the answer of micro bully with down syndrome is unclear, but they can have genetic defects, while one cannot connect them with the repeated genetic material that is the actual cause of down syndrome. Having said that, we can see some dogs, and even micro bullies with slow development, broad faces and even physical frailty that we tend to associate to the human down syndrome.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Down Syndrome in Micro Bullies?
If you are able to detect your micro bully with down syndrome symptoms, then it is important that you take it to the vet. Although there may not be an official diagnosis of down syndrome in dogs, but there are a few symptoms and signs that can resemble the down syndrome.
Unusual Physical or Facial Features
When your dog has such type of disorder, it can have deformed facial features, just like dwarf. There are numerous other common abnormalities like a flat face, small head, short neck, ears in abnormal shape and slanting eyes. Their skin patches can also be abnormal, while the legs might be deformed.
Poor Eyesight
As a micro bully with a suspected down syndrome can have poor development, therefore, there are chances that it has a poor eye sight. One of its eyes can develop cataracts. So, it is better to have a look at the eyes of your dog for any cloudiness, because it can be a clear sign for the development of the cataract.
Issues with Behavior
When you have a micro bully with down syndrome, it will show you odd behaviors and traits, which include howling, wailing or whining. Any puppies that may have this disorder would have problems to quickly advance through the developmental stages. Therefore, it becomes difficult to feed them, and they may also have problems in controlling their bladders.
Problems with Hearing
Although it may be difficult to notice the hearing problem symptoms in a dog, but you will notice that your bully with down syndrome would be very slow in following or reacting to your commands. You will notice this specially when there are other dogs as well.
How to Take Care of a Micro Bully with Special Needs?
If your vet is able to diagnose a micro bully with down syndrome, then you need to take a few important steps. The main thing to note is that it requires highest level of care, whereas, you have to keep it healthy, safe and happy.
Give it Proper Diet
Proper nutrition is the requirement of every dog, but if it is the one with special needs, then you have to make sure that to feed it the right way. When you feed your dog a balanced-diet, its body will have all the required nutrients so that it can function at the best level.
Safeguard the Environment
When you notice development or intellectual delays in your dog, then you have to make sure that the environment is completely safe for it. Ensure that the dog’s space is easy for movement and there are no dangerous obstacles. It would be best if you prevent your dog from injuring itself or falling.
Visit the Vet Regularly
Your micro bully with down syndrome requires frequent checkups to make sure that it remains healthy. Take it regularly to the vet, and follow through with all the tests, checkups and treatments that you find necessary.
Conclusion
Although it is impossible to completely cure the majority of genetic diseases, but the quality of life of your beloved pup can be improved through early diagnosis. If you are sure that you have a micro bully with down syndrome, the best way is to stay on top of all its health problems. If you do that, there is no reason why your canine with special needs won’t live a healthy, happy and a long life. There is a reason why dogs with down syndrome are called ‘Special’, so, it is up to you to embrace it and give the care that it deserves.
