Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE)

Understanding Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome: An Inherited Genetic Disease Affecting the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If you are considering purchasing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy, already own a Cavalier, or are researching the breed's health, it is important to understand Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE). Although relatively uncommon today, thanks to responsible breeding and widespread DNA testing, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome remains one of the most significant inherited genetic diseases affecting the breed.

Unlike many inherited health conditions, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome can be identified through a simple DNA test before a puppy is even conceived. This means ethical and responsible breeders can make informed breeding decisions that prevent affected puppies from being born while preserving valuable genetic diversity within the breed.

Understanding Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome, how it is inherited and why DNA testing is so important will help prospective owners choose a healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy while supporting responsible breeding and the long-term welfare of this much-loved breed.

Overview

Condition: Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE)

Also known as: Congenital Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca and Ichthyosiform Dermatosis (CKCSID)

Body systems affected: Eyes, skin, coat, mouth, feet and occasionally growth and development.

Inherited? Yes.

Cause: A mutation in the FAM83H gene.

DNA test available? Yes.

Can responsible breeding prevent affected puppies? Yes.

Can it be cured? No. There is currently no cure, although lifelong treatment can help manage the condition.

What is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is a rare inherited genetic disorder that affects several parts of the body, particularly the eyes, skin and coat. Unlike many diseases that affect only one organ system, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is considered a multisystem disorder, meaning it causes abnormalities in several tissues throughout the body. Affected puppies are born with the condition, although many signs become more noticeable during the first few weeks or months of life.

The disease is characterised by:

  • Reduced tear production (dry eye)

  • An unusually curly, coarse coat

  • Dry, scaly skin

  • Thickened footpads

  • Eye discomfort

  • Skin inflammation

  • Progressive changes affecting the quality of life

Because several body systems are involved, affected dogs usually require lifelong veterinary care.

Why is it Called Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

The condition takes its name from its two most recognisable features.

Curly Coat

Affected puppies develop a coat that is very different from the soft, silky coat expected in a healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Instead, the coat often becomes:

  • unusually curly

  • coarse

  • rough

  • brittle

  • sparse in some areas

The coat may fail to develop the long feathering that is characteristic of the breed.

Dry Eye

Affected dogs also develop Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), commonly known as dry eye. Normally, tears lubricate and protect the surface of the eye.

Dogs with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome produce insufficient tears, resulting in:

  • chronic eye irritation

  • inflammation

  • thick eye discharge

  • corneal damage

  • recurrent eye infections

  • discomfort

Without treatment, vision may be permanently affected.

What Causes Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is caused by a mutation in the FAM83H gene. This gene plays an important role in the normal development and maintenance of several tissues throughout the body, including the skin, eyes and hair. When both copies of the gene carry the mutation, normal tissue development is disrupted.

As a result, affected puppies develop the characteristic combination of:

  • dry eyes

  • abnormal coat texture

  • skin disease

  • footpad abnormalities

  • oral abnormalities

  • other developmental changes

Importantly, this condition is inherited.

It is not caused by diet, infection, injury, grooming or environmental factors.

Why Does Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Affect Cavalier King Charles Spaniels?

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is considered breed-specific, meaning it has been identified almost exclusively in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The mutation became established within the breed many generations ago and has been passed from parents to offspring through inherited genes. Fortunately, researchers successfully identified the responsible mutation, leading to the development of a reliable DNA test. This scientific breakthrough has dramatically improved the ability of responsible breeders to reduce the incidence of the disease.

How is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Inherited?

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome follows an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. This means a puppy must inherit two copies of the mutated FAM83H gene—one from each parent—to develop the disease. If only one mutated gene is inherited, the puppy becomes a Carrier. Carrier dogs remain completely healthy but can pass the mutation to future generations. Because carriers appear entirely normal, DNA testing is the only reliable way to identify them.

Understanding DNA Test Results

Modern DNA testing classifies every Cavalier into one of three categories. Understanding these results helps explain why DNA testing is such a powerful tool for responsible breeding.

Clear

A Clear dog has inherited two normal copies of the FAM83H gene.

These dogs:

  • will never develop Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

  • cannot pass the mutation to their puppies

Carrier

A Carrier has inherited one normal copy of the gene and one mutated copy.

Carrier dogs:

  • remain healthy

  • do not develop Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

  • show no clinical signs

  • can pass the mutation to approximately half of their puppies

Because carriers appear completely healthy, DNA testing is essential.

Affected

An Affected dog has inherited two copies of the mutated gene. Affected puppies are born with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome and will develop the disease. The severity varies between individual dogs, although all affected dogs require lifelong veterinary care.

Why DNA Testing is One of the Greatest Advances in Cavalier Health

Before the discovery of the FAM83H gene mutation, breeders had no reliable method of identifying carrier dogs. Because carriers appear completely healthy, they could unknowingly produce affected puppies when bred to another carrier.

Today, responsible breeders can DNA test every breeding dog before planning a litter. This simple test allows breeders to make informed breeding decisions that prevent affected puppies while preserving valuable genetic diversity within the breed. The availability of DNA testing has dramatically reduced the incidence of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome among responsibly bred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Should Carrier Dogs Be Removed from Breeding?

No. This is one of the most common misconceptions surrounding inherited genetic diseases. Current breeding recommendations do not suggest eliminating every carrier from breeding. Doing so could unnecessarily reduce the already limited genetic diversity of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Instead, responsible breeders use DNA testing to ensure carrier dogs are only bred to dogs that have tested Clear.

This approach:

  • prevents affected puppies

  • maintains valuable bloodlines

  • preserves genetic diversity

  • supports the long-term health of the breed

Modern canine genetics focuses on producing healthy puppies while avoiding unnecessary loss of important breeding lines.

Responsible Breeding Protects Future Generations

Ethical breeders understand that DNA testing is an essential part of responsible breeding.

Before planning a litter, responsible breeders:

  • DNA test every breeding dog.

  • Understand the genetics of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome.

  • Carefully select breeding combinations.

  • Maintain accurate pedigree and health records.

  • Follow evidence-based breeding recommendations.

  • Prioritise the long-term health and welfare of the breed above all else.

By contrast, breeders who do not undertake DNA testing have no way of knowing whether apparently healthy dogs carry the mutation. This significantly increases the risk of producing affected puppies.

Why Choosing a Responsible Breeder Matters

If you are looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy in Queensland or Australia, choosing a breeder who undertakes comprehensive health testing—including DNA testing for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome—is one of the best decisions you can make.

Although no breeder can guarantee that every puppy will remain free from every inherited disease, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is one condition that can be effectively managed through informed breeding decisions.

Every puppy purchased from a breeder who embraces DNA testing supports responsible breeding programmes and encourages the continued improvement of the breed's long-term genetic health.

By choosing a health-tested puppy, you are not only protecting your future companion but also contributing to the preservation and welfare of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for generations to come.

Recognising the Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Living with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

Although Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE) is now uncommon among responsibly bred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, it remains one of the most serious inherited genetic diseases affecting the breed. Because the condition affects multiple body systems, recognising the early signs is important for owners, breeders and veterinarians alike.

Affected puppies often begin showing clinical signs within the first few months of life. While symptoms may initially appear mild, the disease is progressive and requires lifelong veterinary management.

Understanding how Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome affects the eyes, skin, coat and overall wellbeing of affected dogs helps prospective puppy buyers appreciate why DNA testing is such an important part of responsible breeding.

When Do Symptoms First Appear?

Unlike some inherited diseases that develop later in life, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is present from birth. However, affected puppies are not always obviously abnormal at birth. Clinical signs usually become noticeable between three weeks and six months of age, although the timing and severity varies between individuals. Many owners first notice that their puppy's coat feels unusual or that their eyes appear irritated long before a formal diagnosis is made.

What Are the First Signs of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Early signs may include:

  • Dry, sticky or irritated eyes.

  • Thick mucus around the eyes.

  • Frequent blinking or squinting.

  • A dull or unusually curly coat.

  • Rough or coarse fur.

  • Dry, flaky skin.

  • Poor coat quality.

  • Recurrent eye infections.

  • Sensitivity to light.

  • Slower-than-expected growth.

As the disease progresses, additional symptoms often develop.

Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

One of the defining features of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), more commonly known as dry eye. Healthy tears perform several essential functions.

They:

  • lubricate the surface of the eye

  • nourish the cornea

  • remove dust and debris

  • protect against infection

Dogs affected by Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome produce significantly fewer tears. Without adequate tear production, the eyes become dry, inflamed and painful.

Owners may notice:

  • thick yellow or green discharge

  • redness

  • squinting

  • excessive blinking

  • rubbing at the eyes

  • cloudy corneas

  • recurrent conjunctivitis

Without treatment, chronic dry eye can lead to corneal ulceration, scarring and permanent vision loss.

How Does Dry Eye Affect Quality of Life?

Dry eye is much more than a cosmetic problem. Imagine living every day with severely dry, irritated eyes that constantly feel gritty and uncomfortable.

Affected Cavaliers may experience:

  • ongoing irritation

  • eye pain

  • blurred vision

  • increased sensitivity to sunlight

  • frequent eye infections

  • discomfort during windy or dusty weather

Fortunately, lifelong treatment can significantly improve comfort for many dogs.

The Characteristic Curly Coat

The second defining feature of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is the abnormal coat.

Instead of developing the soft, silky feathering typical of a healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, affected dogs develop a coat that is:

  • coarse

  • curly

  • brittle

  • dry

  • sparse in some areas

The feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail may be reduced or absent. The coat often feels harsh to the touch rather than silky. Because the coat is so distinctive, experienced breeders may recognise the condition before laboratory testing confirms the diagnosis.

Skin Problems

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome also affects the skin.

Many affected Cavaliers develop:

  • dry skin

  • flaky skin

  • scaling

  • thickened skin

  • inflammation

  • recurrent skin infections

  • itching

Some dogs develop cracked skin that becomes vulnerable to bacterial infection. Regular veterinary care and appropriate skin management become an important part of maintaining comfort.

Footpad Abnormalities

Another feature of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is abnormal development of the footpads.

Affected dogs may develop:

  • thickened footpads

  • hard footpads

  • cracked pads

  • painful fissures

Walking on rough or hot surfaces may become uncomfortable for some dogs. Routine foot care helps minimise complications.

Dental and Oral Abnormalities

Research has shown that Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome may also affect the mouth.

Some affected Cavaliers develop:

  • reduced saliva production

  • dry mouth

  • abnormal tooth development

  • increased plaque accumulation

  • periodontal disease

Reduced saliva makes maintaining oral health more challenging. Regular dental care therefore becomes particularly important.

Growth and Development

Some puppies with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome grow more slowly than expected.

They may:

  • remain smaller than their littermates

  • have reduced body condition

  • require additional nutritional support

Growth varies considerably between affected dogs. Some reach normal adult size, while others remain noticeably smaller.

Does Every Dog Experience the Same Symptoms?

No. The severity of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome varies between individual Cavaliers. Some dogs experience relatively mild disease that responds well to treatment. Others develop significant eye disease, skin problems and ongoing management challenges. This variation highlights the importance of early veterinary assessment and individualised treatment plans.

Is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Painful?

Yes—parts of the condition can be painful. Although the abnormal coat itself is not painful, several aspects of the disease can cause significant discomfort.

For example:

Dry eye may cause:

  • irritation

  • burning sensations

  • corneal ulcers

  • chronic inflammation

Skin disease may cause:

  • itching

  • soreness

  • bacterial infections

  • cracking

Footpad disease may cause:

  • pain while walking

  • sensitivity

  • cracked pads

Fortunately, modern veterinary treatment can greatly improve comfort for many affected dogs.

When Should You See a Veterinarian?

Seek veterinary advice if your Cavalier puppy develops:

  • persistent eye discharge

  • red or inflamed eyes

  • frequent squinting

  • excessive blinking

  • unusual coat texture

  • dry or scaly skin

  • recurrent eye infections

  • thickened footpads

Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before complications become severe.

How is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a thorough veterinary examination.

Your veterinarian will consider:

  • the puppy's age

  • clinical signs

  • coat appearance

  • eye health

  • family history

Several tests may then be recommended.

Schirmer Tear Test

One of the simplest and most important tests measures tear production. A small strip of special paper is placed inside the lower eyelid for one minute. Dogs affected by Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca produce significantly fewer tears than healthy dogs.

Eye Examination

Your veterinarian may also perform:

  • fluorescein staining

  • examination of the cornea

  • assessment for ulcers

  • evaluation of conjunctival inflammation

These tests help determine the severity of eye disease.

DNA Testing

The definitive diagnosis is confirmed through DNA testing.

Testing identifies whether a dog is:

  • Clear

  • Carrier

  • Affected

Because Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is caused by a known mutation in the FAM83H gene, DNA testing provides a highly accurate diagnosis.

How is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Treated?

There is currently no cure. Treatment focuses on improving comfort, protecting the eyes and managing secondary complications.

Management usually includes:

  • tear replacement products

  • medications that stimulate tear production where appropriate

  • antibiotic eye medications when infection occurs

  • skin care

  • moisturising treatments

  • treatment of bacterial infections

  • regular veterinary examinations

Every affected dog requires an individual treatment plan.

Living with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

Although Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is a lifelong condition, many owners successfully manage affected dogs with dedicated veterinary care.

Successful management often involves:

  • daily eye medication

  • regular skin care

  • routine veterinary examinations

  • dental care

  • careful monitoring for infections

  • maintaining good nutrition

Owners become highly skilled at recognising subtle changes and responding quickly when problems arise.

What Commitment Is Required?

Owning a Cavalier with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome requires ongoing dedication.

Owners should expect:

  • lifelong eye treatment

  • regular veterinary visits

  • frequent monitoring

  • ongoing skin care

  • increased grooming needs

  • dental care

  • financial commitment

While the condition cannot be cured, appropriate management can greatly improve comfort and quality of life.

What Is the Prognosis?

The outlook depends on the severity of disease and the response to treatment.

Many affected Cavaliers enjoy happy lives when their condition is carefully managed.

However, because Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome affects multiple body systems and requires lifelong treatment, prevention through responsible breeding remains the most effective strategy.

Responsible Breeding, DNA Testing and Choosing a Healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy

One of the greatest success stories in the health of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the development of a reliable DNA test for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE). Unlike many inherited diseases that require specialist examinations or MRI scans, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome can be identified through a simple genetic test before breeding takes place.

This scientific breakthrough has allowed ethical and responsible breeders around the world to dramatically reduce the number of puppies born with this debilitating condition. Today, prospective owners have the opportunity to support responsible breeding simply by choosing a breeder who undertakes comprehensive health testing and willingly shares the results.

How DNA Testing Has Changed the Future of the Breed

Before researchers identified the FAM83H gene mutation, breeders had no reliable method of determining whether a healthy-looking dog carried the disease. Carrier dogs show no outward signs of Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome and live completely normal lives. Without DNA testing, two healthy carrier dogs could unknowingly be bred together, producing affected puppies.

Today, a simple DNA test allows breeders to identify whether a dog is:

  • Clear

  • Carrier

  • Affected

This knowledge enables breeders to make informed decisions that prevent affected puppies from being born while maintaining the valuable genetic diversity that is essential for the long-term health of the breed.

Why DNA Testing Is So Important

DNA testing provides certainty. Unlike eye examinations or physical assessments, a dog's DNA never changes. A dog only needs to be tested once during its lifetime, and the result remains valid forever.

DNA testing allows breeders to:

  • Identify carriers before breeding.

  • Prevent affected puppies from being born.

  • Select appropriate breeding combinations.

  • Preserve valuable bloodlines.

  • Maintain healthy genetic diversity.

  • Improve the overall health of future generations.

For puppy buyers, DNA testing provides reassurance that breeding decisions are based on scientific evidence rather than assumptions.

Understanding DNA Test Results

Understanding what DNA test results actually mean is important when speaking with a breeder.

Clear

A dog that is Clear has inherited two normal copies of the FAM83H gene.

These dogs:

  • will never develop Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

  • cannot pass the mutation to their offspring

Carrier

A Carrier has inherited one normal gene and one mutated gene.

Carrier dogs:

  • remain completely healthy

  • never develop Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

  • show no clinical signs

  • can pass the mutation to approximately half of their puppies

Carrier dogs play an important role in responsible breeding programmes when mated appropriately.

Affected

Dogs that inherit two copies of the mutated gene are classified as Affected. Affected puppies are born with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome and will develop the disease. Although lifelong treatment can improve comfort and quality of life, there is currently no cure.

Should Carrier Dogs Be Removed from Breeding?

No. This is one of the most common misconceptions surrounding inherited diseases. Modern canine genetics aims to improve health without unnecessarily reducing genetic diversity. If every carrier were removed from breeding, valuable bloodlines could be lost, potentially increasing the risk of other inherited diseases within the breed. Instead, responsible breeders carefully plan matings.

For example:

  • Clear × Clear → All puppies will be Clear.

  • Clear × Carrier → No puppies will be affected, although some may be Carriers.

  • Carrier × Carrier → Approximately 25% of puppies may be affected. This mating should be avoided.

  • Carrier × Affected → Approximately 50% of puppies may be affected. This mating should never occur.

  • Affected × Affected → All puppies will be affected. This mating should never occur.

This evidence-based approach protects both the health and the genetic diversity of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Questions Every Puppy Buyer Should Ask a Breeder

If you are searching for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy in Queensland or Australia, asking informed questions will help you identify an ethical breeder who prioritises the health and welfare of their dogs.

We recommend asking:

Have both parents been DNA tested for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

The answer should be yes.

May I see the DNA certificates?

A responsible breeder should willingly provide copies of the DNA test results.

The certificates should clearly identify each breeding dog's genetic status.

Have both parents also been DNA tested for Episodic Falling Syndrome?

Because both DNA tests are simple, readily available and recommended for the breed, responsible breeders generally perform both.

What other health testing do you undertake?

DNA testing for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is only one part of responsible breeding.

You should also ask about:

  • Annual heart examinations by a veterinary cardiologist.

  • MRI screening for Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia.

  • Eye examinations.

  • Patella assessments where appropriate.

  • The health history of parents and grandparents.

Comprehensive health testing demonstrates a breeder's long-term commitment to improving the breed.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a breeder says:

❌ "I've never had a puppy with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome."

❌ "DNA testing isn't necessary."

❌ "My dogs are healthy, so they don't need testing."

❌ "The parents have never shown any symptoms."

❌ "I've been breeding Cavaliers for years without DNA testing."

Because carrier dogs appear completely healthy, it is impossible to know whether a dog carries the mutation without DNA testing. Ethical breeders understand this and test every breeding dog accordingly.

Why Responsible Breeding Matters

Every puppy purchase helps shape the future of the breed. When puppy buyers support breeders who invest in DNA testing and comprehensive health screening, they encourage responsible breeding practices that reduce inherited disease and improve the health of future generations.

Conversely, purchasing puppies from breeders who do not undertake appropriate health testing removes the incentive for responsible breeding and increases the risk of inherited diseases being perpetuated within the breed. Choosing a health-tested puppy is not simply about protecting your own family, it is an investment in the future health and welfare of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Common Myths About Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

Myth: Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is simply a cosmetic coat problem.

Fact: Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is a serious inherited genetic disease that affects the eyes, skin, coat, mouth and other body systems. It is far more than an unusual-looking coat.

Myth: Carrier dogs become sick later in life.

Fact: Carrier dogs remain healthy throughout their lives and do not develop Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome.

Myth: Healthy-looking parents cannot produce affected puppies.

Fact: Two healthy carrier dogs can produce affected puppies if neither has been DNA tested.

Myth: Every carrier should be removed from breeding.

Fact: Responsible breeding programmes use DNA testing to make informed breeding decisions while preserving valuable genetic diversity.

Myth: DNA testing is optional.

Fact: DNA testing for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is simple, reliable and strongly recommended for all breeding Cavaliers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome be cured?

No. There is currently no cure. Treatment focuses on lifelong management of the eyes, skin and associated complications.

Can affected Cavaliers enjoy a good quality of life?

Many affected dogs enjoy a good quality of life with dedicated veterinary care, daily eye treatment and careful management. However, they require lifelong treatment and monitoring.

Is Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome contagious?

No. Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is an inherited genetic condition. It cannot spread between dogs.

Should pet Cavaliers be DNA tested?

If your dog will never be bred, DNA testing is not usually medically necessary. However, some owners choose DNA testing to better understand their dog's genetic health or to confirm a diagnosis if clinical signs develop. Discuss the benefits with your veterinarian.

Can two healthy-looking Cavaliers produce puppies with Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Yes. If both parents are carriers of the FAM83H gene mutation, they can produce affected puppies despite appearing completely healthy. This is why DNA testing is so important.

The Future of the Breed Depends on Responsible Choices

The discovery of the genetic mutation responsible for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome represents one of the most significant advances in the health of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Today, responsible breeders have the knowledge and the tools to prevent puppies from being born with this inherited disease through careful DNA testing and informed breeding decisions. Every prospective puppy buyer also has an important role to play.

By choosing a breeder who undertakes comprehensive health testing—including DNA testing for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome, Episodic Falling Syndrome, annual heart examinations by a veterinary cardiologist and MRI screening for Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia—you are supporting breeders who are committed to improving the long-term health and welfare of the breed.

In Conclusion

  • Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE) is an inherited genetic disease affecting the eyes, skin, coat and other body systems of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

  • The condition is caused by a mutation in the FAM83H gene.

  • A simple DNA test can identify whether a dog is Clear, a Carrier or Affected.

  • Carrier dogs remain healthy but can pass the mutation to their puppies.

  • Responsible breeders use DNA testing to prevent affected puppies while preserving genetic diversity.

  • Choosing a breeder who undertakes comprehensive health testing is one of the best ways to protect the future health of your Cavalier.

  • Supporting ethical breeders contributes to the long-term health, welfare and preservation of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

If you are searching for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy in Queensland or Australia, begin by choosing a breeder who embraces comprehensive health testing and is transparent about the results. Ask to see DNA certificates for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome and Episodic Falling Syndrome, along with evidence of annual heart examinations and MRI screening where appropriate. Responsible breeders are committed not only to producing healthy puppies but also to protecting the long-term future of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel through ethical, evidence-based breeding practices.

References

  1. Forman OP, et al. Parallel Mapping and Simultaneous Sequencing Reveals Deletions in FAM83H and BCAN Associated with Hereditary Syndromes in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. PLoS ONE. 2012.

  2. The Kennel Club (UK) – Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Information

  3. CavalierHealth.org – Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome Information Library

  4. University of California, Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome DNA Test Information

  5. Peer-reviewed publications relating to inherited genetic diseases in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, including research into the FAM83H gene mutation and responsible breeding strategies.

Disclaimer

The information provided in the Cavalier Knowledge Centre is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.