Health Concerns
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is a relatively healthy breed with few genetic disorders. Those disorders that are present generally occur fairly rarely. This is due, in no small part, to the diligence of breeders who are determined to keep the breed healthy and true to its heritage. While the breed is relatively free of genetic disorders, the following defects have been associated with the ASTCD:
Deafness
LSU articles on Deafness in Dogs and Cats by George Strain: www.lsu.edu/deafness/deaf.htm
Deafness inheritance study in the ACD by Sue Summerlad (Univ Queensland):
http://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:346672
Genetics of Deafness in the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013364
Hip Dysplasia
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals: www.offa.org/
Cleft Palate
PetMD article on cleft palate in dogs: https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/mouth/c_dg_cleft_palate%20
Spina Bifida
Vetstreet article on spina bifida in dogs: http://www.vetstreet.com/care/spina-bifida
prcd-PRA (Inherited Blindness) in the ACD and ASTCD
www.optigen.com/opt9_test_pra_acd.html
Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testicles)
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/reproductive/c_multi_cryptorchidism
Incorrect and Missing Dentition (Teeth)
Merck Veterinary Manual: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/congenital-and-inherited-anomalies-of-the-digestive-system/congenital-and-inherited-anomalies-of-the-teeth