Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of kidney tubular function causing excessive loss of vital nutrients in urine, most commonly seen in Basenjis as a hereditary condition, with significant welfare impact from electrolyte imbalance and muscle weakness.
Fanconi syndrome causes a gradual metabolic deterioration as essential nutrients are continuously wasted in urine. Hypokalaemia from potassium loss causes progressive muscle weakness that worsens until treatment is started — affected dogs may struggle to rise or maintain posture. Metabolic acidosis from bicarbonate loss causes chronic malaise and fatigue. The insidious nature of onset means dogs may suffer for months before diagnosis. Once identified and supplementation tailored to individual losses, dogs typically improve dramatically. Basenji breeders now have access to a genetic test for Fanconi syndrome allowing screening of breeding stock to reduce inheritance in future generations.