This disorder, also known as ‘gray collie syndrome,’ is characterized by a reduced number of neutrophils which drops dramatically in a cyclical pattern, usually about every 10 to 12 days. During the time of a low neutrophil count, there is an increased susceptibility to infection. Affected dogs develop clinical signs such as fever, diarrhea, joint pain, or other signs associated with eye, respiratory, or skin infections. They are also prone to bleeding episodes. This is a serious genetic disorder in which affected puppies are smaller and weaker, with a noticeable pale gray or pinkish/gray or beige color. These puppies rarely live beyond a couple of days and when they do survive, they are susceptible to a number of infections. With proper treatment they can be kept alive, but few have lived beyond 2 to 3 years of age.

• Border Collie
• Collie
• Rough Collie
• Smooth Collie

A (CLEAR/NORMAL): These dogs have two copies of the normal gene and will neither develop CN nor pass this mutation to their offspring.

B (CARRIER/NOT AFFECTED): These dogs have one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutation associated with this disease. They will not develop CN but will, if bred, pass the mutation to 50% of its offspring, on average.

C (AT RISK/AFFECTED): These dogs have two copies of the mutation associated with this disease and which results in a reduced white cell count and increased susceptibility to infection.