Syndactyly Dog: Cleft Lip, Palate & Syndactyly Testing for NS Duck Tolling Retrievers

•25 March 2026

The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever is a medium-sized dog breed from the Kennel Club’s gundog group. Although not very common in the UK, this breed is admired for its temperament and behaviour, making it an excellent family pet.

These dogs are known for their versatility, high energy levels, and strong retrieving instincts both on land and in water. They thrive with active families who enjoy outdoor activities and offer them an energetic lifestyle.

Despite their lively nature, the breed has some health concerns. Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers are prone to several hereditary congenital conditions, among which cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly are notably frequent. These defects can have significant effects on affected puppies’ well-being and survival.

Cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly in this breed stem from mutations in specific genes, mainly involving the ADAMTS20 gene. These conditions are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning both parents must carry or be affected by the gene mutation for the offspring to be at risk.

This article explores these congenital defects in detail and explains the importance of DNA testing in managing and preventing affected litters. Responsible breeding practices play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of this charming breed.

What are cleft lips, cleft palates and syndactyly?

Cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly are congenital birth defects that affect different physical structures but may occur together or separately in affected puppies.

Cleft lip is a split or gap in one or both sides of the upper lip formed during development in the womb.
Cleft palate is an opening or hole in the roof of the mouth (palate) present at birth, which can cause feeding difficulties and respiratory problems if uncorrected.
Syndactyly refers to the fusion or webbing of two or more toes, leading to malformed digits which vary in severity from partial to full fusion.

The extent and combination of these defects vary depending on the gene expression and mutation type.

How are cleft lip, cleft palate and syndactyly inherited in Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers?

These conditions are inherited genetically through autosomal recessive inheritance. For a puppy to be affected, it must inherit the mutated gene from both parents.

Puppies can have different genetic statuses:

Clear (normal) - no copies of the mutated gene.
Carrier - carries one mutated gene copy but shows no symptoms.
Affected - inherits two copies and shows clinical signs.

The breeding pair's statuses determine the risk of producing affected offspring:

Two affected parents will produce 100% affected puppies.
Two clear parents produce 100% clear puppies.
Two carrier parents produce 25% affected, 50% carriers, and 25% clear puppies.
A carrier bred to a clear dog produces 50% carriers and 50% clear puppies.
An affected dog bred to a clear produces 100% carriers.
An affected dog bred to a carrier produces 50% affected and 50% carriers.

Why DNA testing is crucial for Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever breeding

DNA testing for cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly is essential to identify the genetic status of breeding dogs. This testing is performed via authorised veterinary genetics laboratories using samples such as blood or cheek swabs.

Results typically classify dogs as clear, carrier, or affected and help breeders make informed decisions to avoid producing affected puppies. Testing breeding stock prior to mating reduces the risk of congenital defects and promotes healthier litters in the breed population.

Breeders are advised to avoid mating two carriers, as this pairing carries the highest risk of affected puppies. Responsible use of DNA test results enables gradual elimination of problematic genes from the breeding pool.

Maintaining detailed health records and genetic counselling based on test outcomes are best practices in managing clps within the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever community.

Latest veterinary consensus and genetic insights (2025)

Recent studies confirm that cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly in Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers result primarily from a frameshift mutation in the ADAMTS20 gene. This mutation disrupts normal development of facial and limb structures leading to the typical constellation of defects.

Other genetic variants may also influence expression, but the ADAMTS20 mutation remains the primary cause identified. The disorder leads to feeding difficulties and increased risk of aspiration pneumonia in affected puppies, making early identification and preventive breeding crucial.

The recommended best practice is to perform DNA testing from approved labs before breeding decisions are made and to use results to prevent carrier-to-carrier matings. UK breeders adopting these measures can significantly reduce CLPS incidence and improve overall breed health.

What to do if you find a puppy affected with cleft lip, palate or syndactyly?

Quick Answer: Puppies with severe cleft palate often require immediate veterinary care due to difficulties feeding and risk of pneumonia. Mild cases or syndactyly may be managed with veterinary advice, but early diagnosis and humane decision-making are vital.

If you find a puppy affected by these conditions, seek veterinary assessment immediately. Feeding difficulties often necessitate specialised care or even surgical intervention. Sadly, severe cases may require euthanasia to prevent suffering.

Early diagnosis assists breeders in reviewing mating choices and emphasising health testing. While syndactyly might be a less severe issue, cleft palate can cause significant welfare concerns. Ensuring breeders use DNA testing supports healthier future litters.

Where to find a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy responsibly

If you’re considering adding a Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever to your family, always seek reputable breeders who perform health testing, including DNA testing for CLPS.

This responsible approach ensures you get a healthy puppy with known genetic backgrounds, reducing the chance of congenital defects. Avoid purchasing puppies from unverified sources to support positive welfare standards.

With patience and careful selection, you can enjoy this breed’s friendliness, intelligence, and energy in your home for many years.

Final thoughts on syndactyly dog

Cleft lip, cleft palate, and syndactyly are serious hereditary defects in Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers that significantly affect puppy health and welfare. Understanding the genetic causes, inheritance patterns, and DNA testing protocols is vital for responsible breeders and prospective owners.

By prioritising health testing and cautious mating choices, breeders in the UK can help reduce these conditions' prevalence in the breed. Responsible ownership includes selecting puppies from tested parents and supporting genetic health improvements in NSDTRs.

If you seek a Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever puppy, choose carefully from reputable breeders committed to breed health.

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