Woolly hair
Also known as: Woolly coat · Wollhaarigkeit · Woolly haircoat · Wollhaar-Syndrom · Abnormal woolly coat
Overview
What it is
This condition is a genetic variation affecting the hair follicles and coat structure, specifically linked to the FGF5 gene which regulates hair length. In affected dogs, the protective, coarse outer guard hairs are either missing or malformed. This leaves the dog with a coat dominated by a very soft, dense, and woolly undercoat.
How it presents
Owners will notice an unusually plush, frizzy, or fluffy coat that is highly prone to tangling and matting. This characteristic coat texture typically becomes obvious during puppyhood or as the dog transitions to its adult coat.
Treatment
This is a cosmetic variation rather than a disease, requiring no medical treatment and costing 0 EUR. However, the coat requires lifelong, regular grooming and brushing to prevent painful matting and associated skin irritation.
How it's tested
Woolly Haircoat DNA-Test(Woolly)
Primary testDNA testDer DNA-Test identifiziert die verantwortliche Mutation (z. B. im KRT71-Gen), die zu einer fehlerhaften Entwicklung des Deckhaars und einem dominierenden wolligen Unterhaar führt.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Woolly hair?
This condition is a genetic variation affecting the hair follicles and coat structure, specifically linked to the FGF5 gene which regulates hair length. In affected dogs, the protective, coarse outer guard hairs are either missing or malformed. This leaves the dog with a coat dominated by a very soft, dense, and woolly undercoat.
How is Woolly hair tested?
Tests currently in our database: Woolly Haircoat DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.