Hypercholesterolemia in Eurasier Dogs

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An international research consortium including the University of Minnesota and the University of Bern, Switzerland is investigating familial hypercholesteremia in Eurasier dogs. In this breed, familial hypercholesterolemia is inherited as a monogenic autosomal recessive trait.

Affected dogs have extremely high blood cholesterol concentrations and are at high risk of developing severe secondary diseases including stroke-like neurological episodes, thrombotic/vascular complications, pancreatitis, and extensive systemic atherosclerosis. Without treatment, affected dogs often die before reaching two years of age.

Research has now identified a genetic variant that very likely causes familial hypercholesterolemia in Eurasier dogs. To validate these findings, we invite Eurasier owners and breeders to support our research by submitting samples from their dogs.

All submitted samples will be analyzed as part of this scientific study. As a token of our appreciation, participants will receive a free preliminary genetic test result for their dog.

This offer is valid for samples from Eurasier dogs submitted before November 30, 2026. 

Important information

The genetic analysis is performed as part of an ongoing research project. This is a preliminary genetic test, and the results are intended to support the scientific validation of the identified genetic variant. Please allow up to six weeks to receive your results.