Dermoid Sinus
The Dermoid Sinus is a genetic skin-related disorder and is present from birth in the puppy’s DNA. The Dermoid Sinus is a tube of skin that joins the outer surface of the skin (not always present), potentially as far as the spinal cord (though not always that deep – there are four levels of depth). It may or may not contain hair follicles or be lined with hair. As the hair sheds on the outer coat of the pup, so does the hair inside this tube. The body’s natural response to dead material is to flush it out and thus the serum builds up and expels the debris.
Not all dermoid sinuses are true tubes. Some are not hollow and the serum and debris cannot drain. In these cases an abscess forms and the resulting swelling that accompanies can rupture the skin. This results in a very painful situation for the pup. At its worst, it is life threatening.
The Sinus is generally found on the midline of the head, neck, back and tail along the spinal column. Although rarely found in the ridge, there have been several cases noted. The Sinus is a congenital condition, meaning that it is present at birth. The affected puppy can be operated on to remove the Sinus, and this surgery should be performed prior to the puppy leaving the breeder for its new home. Any affected puppy should be sold as a pet only and never be considered for breeding. That the puppy suffered from a Sinus should be fully disclosed to the puppy buyer by the breeder. All puppies should be examined by at least two experienced breeders before sale. Checking for a Sinus is a breed-specific skill and many vets are not sufficiently familiar with the procedure.
Click here to download the Dermoid Sinus Information Leaflet
Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies
Finally, if you have fallen for the charms of a Rhodesian Ridgeback contact our Puppy Co-ordinator of reputable breeders for news of any recently born litters.
