Fetal anasarca is a homeostatic imbalance of the subcutaneous fluids of the body, resulting in the bodily swelling of a fetus.¹ When present in canines, this condition results in offspring born as “water puppies.” Water puppies are characterized by generalized edema and are often stillborn or die soon after birth. The exact cause of fetal anasarca has not been identified, but the etiology is likely multifactorial. Recent studies demonstrate an increased prevalence of canine anasarca and other harmful genetic conditions in brachycephalic dog breeds, such as bulldogs.² This is likely due to a lack of genetic diversity in the breed, resulting from many generations of selective breeding. Noting the increase in mutations among the brachycephalic breeds found in previous studies, it can be hypothesized that there is a genetic link to canine anasarca found in the bulldog genome.² Genes of interest have been identified, but the determination of the presence of a genetic mutation with possible linkage to canine anasarca is ongoing. This thesis aims to examine and explain the tested target genes of interest and to help progress studies investigating a genetic linkage to the condition.

This was done through trait identification through literature review followed by bioinformatic analysis of submitted bulldog genomes, loci amplification primer design and preliminary proof-of-concept analysis. Several genes of interest were identified due to their connection to other conditions common in brachycephalic breeds, as well as associations with the circulatory and urinary systems believed to play a role in anasarca development.