Predisposition to gastric dilatation-volvulus in relation to genetics of thoracic conformation in Irish setters.

Thoracic depth/width ratios (TDWRs) were calculated from measurements of the parents (i.e., common dam and two sires) and puppies in two litters of Irish setters. The TDWRs of the parents, distribution of TDWRs in the litters, and comparisons with earlier population studies suggest that an incompletely dominant major gene and a background of minor genes and environmental factors are responsible for the TDWR. A history of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) (i.e., bloat) was correlated with high TDWRs in this family as it was for Irish setters and certain other breeds studied earlier. It may be possible to reduce the incidence of GDV by selective breeding of dogs with lower TDWRs.