Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome (CKCSID) is a genetic disorder that affects the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed. Symptoms of the disease can be seen at birth and includes abnormal hair, eye and nail development. The dog’s coat will appear curly and rough and a severe reduction in the amount of tears will be observed. The dog’s skin and footpads can appear thickened also known as hyperkeratinization and there is an increased risk for dental disease. CKCSID may also be referred to as Congenital Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or Ichthyosiform Dermatosis.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A (CLEAR/NORMAL): These dogs have two copies of the normal gene and will neither develop CKCSID 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 CKCSID 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 which results in abnormal hair, eye and nail development from birth.