Clinical decision support tool. Does not replace professional veterinary judgment. Always verify recommendations with current references.
Australian Shepherd
DOG· MEDIUM· Lifespan: 12-15 years
Thinking about this breed for your home? Read the owner suitability guide
🧬 Genetic Drug Sensitivities
🔴 MDR1 (nt230(del4))
Prevalence: Unknown
P-glycoprotein substrate. Prolonged sedation in MDR1 dogs. Reduce dose by 25-50%.
REDUCE DOSEAcepromazine
REDUCE DOSEButorphanol
MONITORCyclosporine
AVOIDTramadol
AVOIDHeartgard→ Alternatives: selamectin (Revolution), afoxolaner+pyrantel alternatives
Also avoid: Heartgard, ivermectin, moxidectin
Use Interceptor (milbemycin) with caution — also MDR1-substrate at higher doses; preventive doses generally safe but verify
AVOIDIvermectin→ Alternatives: Milbemycin Oxime, Selamectin (at labeled doses)
AVOIDSimparica Trio→ Alternatives: sarolaner alone (Simparica — no moxidectin), afoxolaner (NexGard) for fleas/ticks + selamectin for HW prevention
Also avoid: Simparica Trio, moxidectin, ivermectin
Sarolaner alone (Simparica, not Trio) is safe in MDR1 breeds
📋 Breed Predispositions
| Condition | Prevalence | Onset | Severity | Screening |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hemangiosarcoma | Elevated | 8-12 years | LIFE THREATENING | Abdominal ultrasound annually after age 7 |
| MDR1 (ABCB1) Mutation | ~50% | Birth | SEVERE | Genetic test (Embark, Wisdom Panel) |
| Hip Dysplasia | 15-20% | 1-2 years | MODERATE RISK | PennHIP or OFA radiographs by age 2 |
| Epilepsy | ~6% | 1-5 years | MODERATE RISK | Monitor for seizure activity |
| Cataracts (HSF4) | 15-20% | 2-7 years | MODERATE RISK | CERF/OFA eye exam annually |