Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) / Familial Enamel Hypoplasia (FEH) is an inherited genetic disorder affecting the tooth enamel that occurs in Italian Greyhounds. Affected dogs are unable to develop normal tooth enamel (Emnamel Hypoplasia) resulting in teeth being misshaped with roughening / thinning surface and greyish or brownish spots.
The disease affect both baby and permanent teeth. In affected dogs, permanent teeth are pointed and unusually small with gaps between the teeth due to increased enamel wear. The gaps between the teeth increase as the dog gets older.
There is no relation between the disease and either autoimmunity or periodontal disease.
In a recent study conducted on Italian Greyhounds from populations in the US and Canada, it is estimated that about 14% are affected and 30% are carriers. We do not yet have reliable information on the prevalence of the mutation in the UK.