One thing a veterinarian does when either assisting a dog during whelping, or in the immediate follow up to a cesarean section is examine the puppies. Included in this examination is an oral exam to check both suckle reflex and for any congenital defect which may compromise the puppy’s quality of life. In effect, the vet is looking for any sign of a cleft lip/palate (CL/P). A CL/P is a relatively common congenital defect of the craniofacial region. The development of the palate includes the soft palate, the rostral (frontal) hard palate, the premaxilla section of the skull and the lips1. This defect creates an opening between the oral and nasal cavities. This opening is concerning because the puppy will have difficulties nursing leading to malnutrition and may inhale milk into the respiratory system which can lead to a sinus infection or pneumonia11. Some dog breeds more commonly present with cleft defects than others suggesting a genetic component to this condition1. Genetics do play a role in the formation of this defect, but they are not the only cause of a cleft lip/palate. Genetic ...