The essentials
- Certain breeds are more likely to develop health conditions than others — Before bringing home a puppy, it’s best to read up on what health conditions they could face.
- Purebred dogs are at a higher risk of some inherited diseases — Inbreeding has occurred as a result of trying to meet breed standards, which as led to widespread health problems in purebred pups.
- Work with a responsible breeder — Responsible breeders put the health of their puppies first and are transparent about their breeding process. Make sure to ask about your pup’s health history and living conditions.
Here’s a breed-by-breed guide of a few of the health conditions popular dog breeds face, which is by no means a comprehensive list. Keep in mind that what works for one dog might not work for the next, so information about diagnosis and treatment will depend on your pup’s unique circumstances.
And remember: Any dog of any breed could develop many of the following conditions. Whenever you notice changes in your pup’s health, it’s always best to reach out to your vet to determine what might be going on.
Small dog breeds
Beagle
Beagles are a popular breed known for their outgoing and friendly nature. They live between 10-15 years and are often found in shelters and rescues due to their high energy and need for a lot of exercise.
Common health conditions include:
- Epilepsy. A neurological disorder that causes sudden, uncontrolled seizures.
- Hypothyroidism. A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
Boston terrier
Boston terriers, also known as the “American Gentleman,” live approximately 11-13 years and are known for their friendly and sociable nature. Like beagles, they often find themselves in shelters and rescues due to their high energy levels.
Common health conditions include:
- Brachycephalic syndrome. A respiratory disorder common in dogs with flat faces and short noses. It can cause difficulty breathing and overheating.
- Patellar luxation. A common condition in small dogs where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
- Cataracts. An opacity in the lens of a dog’s eye, causing them to have blurry vision.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Cavalier King Charles spaniels, ranked as the 19th most popular breed by the AKC, are known for their affectionate and gentle temperament. While they aren’t as commonly seen in shelters and rescues, they often end up there due to health issues that can be expensive to treat.
Common health conditions include:
- Mitral valve disease. A heart condition where the mitral valve weakens or deforms, causing a heart murmur.
- Syringomyelia. A condition where a cavity forms within the spinal cord, which can lead to pain, weakness, and partial paralysis.
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, affectionately known as “wiener dogs” due to their unique long-bodied shape, are a breed full of personality and charm. They typically enjoy a lifespan of 12-16 years. Unfortunately, they often find their way into shelters and rescues due to misconceptions about their temperament and care needs.
Common health conditions include:
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This condition affects the discs in the dog’s spine and can cause pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. Dachshunds’ long bodies make them particularly susceptible.
- Epilepsy. A neurological disorder causing sudden, recurrent seizures that can range from mild to severe.
- Diabetes. Similar to humans, this condition affects the dog’s ability to produce or respond to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels
French bulldog
French bulldogs, or “Frenchies,” are beloved for their bat-like ears and compact, muscular bodies. These dogs live between 10-12 years on average. They are not as common in shelters due to their popularity (4th according to the AKC) but rescues specializing in the breed do exist.
Common health conditions include:
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). French bulldogs are prone to this condition due to their flat faces and short noses, which can lead to breathing difficulties.
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This spinal condition, causing pain and potential nerve damage, is more common in breeds with short legs and long backs.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Miniature schnauzer
Miniature schnauzers are known for their distinctive beards and eyebrows, along with a friendly and intelligent nature. They live between 12-15 years and are often found in shelters and rescues due to their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation.
Common health conditions include:
- Pancreatitis. An inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to digestion problems and other complications.
- Cataracts. This eye condition causes cloudiness in the lens, leading to decreased vision and potential blindness.
- Hyperlipidemia. This condition, characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the bloodstream, can lead to pancreatitis in severe cases.
Pembroke Welsh corgi
Pembroke Welsh corgis, famous for their adorable stature and association with Queen Elizabeth II, are a breed full of energy and intelligence. They typically enjoy a lifespan of 12-15 years. While not excessively common in shelters, they do appear occasionally, often due to owners underestimating their exercise needs. Rounding out the AKC’s top ten in popularity, breeder prices for corgis average between $1000-$2500.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Degenerative myelopathy . A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can lead to hind limb weakness and paralysis.
- Von Willebrand’s disease. A blood clotting disorder similar to hemophilia in humans.
Shih tzu
Known for their outgoing personality and luxurious coat, it’s no surprise shih tzus are ranked 20th in popularity. Unfortunately, the grooming requirements for those flowing locks coupled with a lifespan of 12–15 years can land them in shelters and rescues.
Common health conditions include:
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Due to their flat faces and short noses, shih tzus can experience breathing difficulties associated with this syndrome.
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Retinal dysplasia. An eye disease causing folds or rosettes (round clumps) in the retina, potentially leading to retinal detachment and blindness.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Yorkshire terrier
Yorkies are small in size but big in personality. With a lifespan of 11–15 years, they’re known for their adventurous spirit and protective nature. Their high-maintenance coats and energetic disposition can mean that they end up in shelters more often than breeds with easier coats and temperaments.
Common health conditions include:
- Patellar luxation. A condition in which the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
- Progressive retinal atrophy. A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Hypoglycemia. A condition characterized by an abnormally low level of blood sugar, which is the main energy source for the brain.
Pug
With their squishy faces and friendly, laid-back nature, it’s no wonder pugs are a top-30 breed, according to the AKC. And with an average lifespan of 12–15 years, you’ll get to enjoy even more of the snores and grunts.
Common health conditions include:
- Pug dog encephalitis (PDE). An inflammatory disease that affects the brain and is, unfortunately, unique to pugs. It’s thought to be genetic and can cause seizures.
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Necrotizing meningoencephalitis. An inflammation of the brain and its surrounding membranes. Symptoms include seizures, blindness, and paralysis.
Medium dog breeds
Australian shepherd
Australian shepherds, also called “Aussies,” are known for their intelligence and high energy levels. They typically live between 12 and 15 years and can be quite common in shelters due to their high exercise needs and stimulation requirements.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Epilepsy. A neurological disorder that causes sudden, recurrent seizures.
- Cataracts. This eye condition causes cloudiness in the lens, leading to decreased vision and potential blindness.
Boxer
Boxers, known for their vibrant energy and sociable disposition, make ideal companions for families. With an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, these dogs are often found in shelters due to their substantial size and high energy requirements.
Common health conditions include:
- Aortic stenosis. A heart condition that narrows the aortic valve, impeding blood flow and forcing the heart to work harder.
- Boxer cardiomyopathy. Also known as “Boxer ARVC ,” this is a unique condition of the breed that can lead to arrhythmia and more severe heart problems.
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Cocker spaniel
Cocker spaniels, recognized for their affable and loving temperament, typically enjoy a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. These charming canines often end up in shelters and rescue centers, primarily due to their significant grooming requirements.
Common health conditions include:
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Cataracts. This eye condition causes cloudiness in the lens, leading to decreased vision and potential blindness.
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
English bulldog
English bulldogs, with their distinct wrinkly face and sturdy body, are known for their lovable and gentle nature. Their lifespan is relatively short, averaging 8-10 years. Bulldogs are not uncommon in shelters due to health issues that can be expensive to treat.
Common health conditions include:
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition, common in flat-faced breeds, can cause several respiratory problems.
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Cherry eye. This condition occurs when the gland under the third eyelid protrudes and looks rather like a cherry in the corner of the eye.
Fox red Labrador retriever
Fox red Labrador retrievers, a unique variant within the Labrador retriever family, are celebrated for their amiable nature and adaptability as working canines. They usually enjoy a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Due to their large build and energetic personality, labs are frequently found in rescue shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Exercise-induced collapse (EIC). A genetic syndrome common in Labs causing muscle weakness, incoordination, and life-threatening collapse.
Pointer
Pointers, recognized for their athletic prowess and hunting abilities, have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Their high energy levels and need for exercise often lead them to be relinquished to shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Epilepsy. A neurological disorder that causes sudden, recurrent seizures.
Siberian husky
Siberian huskies, renowned for their captivating looks and sled-pulling skills, generally live between 12 and 14 years. Their high activity requirements and independent spirit often result in them ending up in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Cataracts. This eye condition causes cloudiness in the lens, leading to decreased vision and potential blindness.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Basset hound
Basset hounds, recognized by their distinctive droopy ears and exceptional sense of smell, are cherished for their affable and easy-going temperament. They typically live for 10 to 12 years. Due to their sizable build and common health complications, basset hounds are frequently found in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Elbow dysplasia. A condition that involves several abnormalities occurring in the elbow joint, leading to arthritis or lameness.
- Glaucoma. An eye condition characterized by increased pressure within the eyeball, causing gradual loss of sight.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners, often referred to as “Grey Ghosts” due to their unique coat color, are known for their speed, agility, and endurance. They typically live between 10-13 years. These dogs are occasionally found in shelters due to their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Von Willebrand’s disease. This is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. It’s similar to hemophilia in humans.
Shetland sheepdog
Shetland sheepdogs, affectionately known as “Shelties,” are intelligent, agile, and obedient dogs. They typically live between 12-14 years and currently hold the 25th spot on the AKC popularity list. Shelties can be found in shelters, often due to their herding instincts and high exercise needs.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Eye disorders. Shelties are prone to several eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA).
- Von Willebrand’s disease . This is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process, similar to hemophilia in humans.
Big dog breeds
Doberman pinscher
Doberman pinschers are sleek, athletic, and incredibly loyal dogs. They are known for their intelligence and discernment. These dogs typically live between 10-12 years.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Von Willebrand’s disease. This is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. It’s similar to hemophilia in humans.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy. A disease that enlarges the heart and can lead to heart failure.
English cream golden retriever
English cream golden retrievers are known for their friendly and tolerant attitudes. They live between 10-12 years and can be found frequently in shelters due to their popularity.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Eye disorders. These dogs are prone to several eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.
- Heart disease. Golden retrievers are prone to certain types of heart disease, including subvalvular aortic stenosis, a condition that narrows the connection between the left ventricle and the aorta.
German shepherd
Coming in just ahead of golden retrievers on the popularity scale, German shepherds are known for their intelligence and versatility. They typically live between 9-13 years. You can easily find them in shelters, often due to their size and high exercise needs.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Degenerative myelopathy. A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can result in hind limb paralysis.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Allergies. An overreaction of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless which can be seasonal, environmental, or food-related.
Great Dane
Great Danes are gentle giants, known for their friendly nature and towering size. They typically live between 7-10 years. Great Danes often end up in shelters due to their size and short lifespan.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy. A disease that enlarges the heart and can lead to heart failure.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers, with their robust build and confident demeanor, are known for their unwavering loyalty. Their average lifespan falls between 9-10 years. Regrettably, their imposing size and misunderstood reputation make them common residents in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Heart conditions. Rottweilers are prone to certain types of heart disease, including subaortic stenosis and dilated cardiomyopathy.
- Eye conditions. Rottweilers can suffer from progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and entropion.
St. Bernard
St. Bernards, celebrated for their gentle temperament and friendly nature, typically live between 8-10 years. However, their size and tendency to drool can sometimes land them in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Heart conditions. St. Bernards are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart becomes enlarged.
Bernese mountain dog
Known for their calm and friendly demeanor, Bernese mountain dogs typically have a lifespan of 7-10 years. Due to their large size and potential health issues, they often find themselves in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, or lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Cancer. Bernese mountain dogs have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer – like bone cancer and primary lung tumors – as compared to other breeds.
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are a unique breed, recognized for their loving and gentle nature, as well as their superior scent-tracking abilities. With an average lifespan of 10-12 years, they can occasionally be found in shelters, often due to their drooling habits and size.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, or lameness.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Ear infections. Due to their long ears, bloodhounds are prone to ear infections.
Irish setter
Irish setters are energetic, fun-loving, and excellent family dogs. They typically live between 12-15 years. Irish Setters can be found in shelters, often due to their high exercise needs and grooming requirements.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, or lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Hypothyroidism. This condition occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to obesity, lethargy, and skin conditions.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their sweet-natured and gentle temperaments. They typically live between 9-10 years. Due to their size and grooming needs, Newfoundlands often end up in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions involve an abnormal formation of the hip or elbow socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, and lameness.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists.
- Subvalvular aortic stenosis. This is a heart condition that can cause fainting and sudden death in severe cases.
Chow chow
Chow chows, easily recognized by their lion-like appearance and aloof demeanor, have a lifespan that ranges between 9 and 15 years. Their stubborn nature and grooming requirements often result in them being taken to shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, or lameness.
- Entropion. This is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye surface.
- Elbow dysplasia. This is a condition that involves an abnormal formation which leads to the development of arthritis in the elbow joint.
Standard poodle
Poodles, a top-ten breed renowned for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats, come in three distinct sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Their lifespan varies between 10-18 years based on their size. Due to their intensive grooming needs, poodles are often found in shelters.
Common health conditions include:
- Hip dysplasia. This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket, potentially leading to discomfort, arthritis, or lameness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A group of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptor cells in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
- Addison’s disease . This is a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough steroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as lethargy, muscle weakness, and poor appetite.
Dog breeds by ailments
Hip and/or elbow dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are health conditions that can affect dogs, especially larger breeds.
The word “dysplasia” refers to a condition where something isn’t growing the way it should be. In the case of hip and elbow dysplasia, it’s the dog’s joints that don’t develop properly. This can cause the dog discomfort and make it hard for them to move around like they normally would.
Both of these conditions are often caused by genetics, meaning a dog can be born with the likelihood of developing dysplasia. But they can also be influenced by a dog’s environment and lifestyle, such as their diet and how much exercise they get.
| Rank | Breed | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australian shepherd | hip |
| 2 | Siberian husky | hip |
| 3 | Basset hound | hip/elbow |
| 4 | Doberman pinscher | hip |
| 5 | Great Dane | hip |
| 6 | Saint Bernard | hip |
| 7 | Bloodhound | hip/elbow |
| 8 | Chow Chow | hip/elbow |
| 9 | Weimaraner | hip |
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Progressive retinal atrophy, often referred to as PRA, is a group of eye diseases that can affect the cells that are responsible for capturing light and converting it into signals that the brain can understand. When these cells don’t work properly, it can lead to vision problems and eventually, blindness.
Despite the serious impact on an animal’s sight, PRA isn’t painful. It’s also inherited, which means it’s passed down from parents to their offspring. So, some breeds might be more likely to develop PRA than others because of their genetics.
| Rank | Breed |
|---|---|
| 1 | Labrador retriever |
| 2 | Cocker spaniel |
| 3 | Poodle |
| 4 | Irish setter |
| 5 | Bernese mountain dog |
| 6 | Pointer |
| 7 | Siberian husky |
| 8 | Shetland sheepdog |
Heart conditions
Heart conditions like mitral valve disease and cardiomyopathy can affect dogs just like they can affect humans. These conditions can have different causes, symptoms, and impacts on a dog’s life. But they all involve the heart not working as well as it should.
Early detection is key in managing heart conditions. Regular vet check-ups can help catch any issues and ensure your pet has the best possible quality of life.
| Rank | Breed | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cavalier King Charles spaniel | Mitral valve disease |
| 2 | Doberman pinscher | Cardiomyopathy |
| 3 | Rottweiler | Subaortic stenosis |
| 4 | Saint bernard | Dilated cardiomyopathy |
| 5 | Newfoundland | Subvalvular aortic stenosis |
| 6 | Great Dane | Cardiomyopathy |
| 7 | Boxer | Boxer ARVC |
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition that causes abnormal electrical activity in the brain which can lead to seizures. There are different types of epilepsy in dogs. Idiopathic epilepsy is one type where the exact cause of the seizures is unknown, but it’s believed to be inherited.
The condition can be scary for both you and your dog, but treatments like anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) can reduce the severity and frequency of the seizures.
| Rank | Breed |
|---|---|
| 1 | Australian shepherd |
| 2 | Pointer |
| 3 | Dachshund |
| 4 | Beagles |
Other eye conditions
Eye conditions like cataracts, entropion, and glaucoma can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life. These conditions can make it difficult for your dog to see or cause sensitivity to light. Your dog might also feel discomfort or pain, which can make them less active or playful.
It’s important to recognize the signs of these conditions and seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Treatments like eye drops, medications, and even surgery can help manage your dog’s symptoms, reduce their discomfort, and protect their vision.
| Rank | Breed | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australian shepherd | Cataracts |
| 2 | English bulldog | Cherry eye |
| 3 | Siberian husky | Cataracts |
| 4 | Basset hound | Glaucoma |
| 5 | Chow chow | Entropion |
| 6 | Cocker spaniel | Cataracts |
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
The word “brachycephalic” refers to animals with short noses and flat faces, like bulldogs and pugs. BOAS is linked to the specific physical features of these breeds. Because their faces and noses are so short, the airways in their nose and throat can become squeezed or obstructed, making it harder for them to breathe.
The condition is considered chronic and can worsen over time. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding heat and strenuous exercise or, in severe cases, surgery to widen the airway can help manage BOAS.
| Rank | Breed |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bulldog |
| 2 | Pug |
| 3 | Shih Tzu |
| 4 | Boston terrier |
How to keep your pup healthy
As a dog owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your furry friend lives a happy, healthy life. Your dog depends on you for their well-being, and in return, they provide companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love. Here are some essential tips to help keep your dog in the best possible health.
- Regular vet check-ups. Just like humans, dogs need regular medical check-ups. These visits allow your vet to spot any potential health issues early, administer necessary vaccinations, and provide advice on maintaining your dog’s health.
- Balanced diet. Feeding your dog a balanced diet is crucial for their overall health. Choose high-quality dog food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and health condition. Avoid overfeeding as obesity can lead to serious health problems.
- Exercise. Regular physical activity is vital for keeping your dog fit and managing their weight. The amount of exercise needed can vary based on their breed, age, and health. Generally, dogs should have at least one hour of exercise each day.
- Dental care. Oral health is often overlooked but is just as important. Regular brushing and dental chews can help prevent bad breath, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
- Grooming. Regular grooming keeps your dog’s coat clean and reduces the chance of skin issues. It’s also a good opportunity to check for any abnormalities, such as lumps or parasites.
- Mental stimulation. Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise. Toys, training, and social interaction can help keep their minds sharp.
- Preventative care. Regularly treat your dog for fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Also, ensure they are microchipped and their vaccinations are up-to-date.
- Love and affection. Last but not least, provide your dog with lots of love and affection. A happy dog is a healthy dog!
No matter what type of dog you bring home, health problems are always a possibility. However, knowing what breeds may have a higher tendency to develop certain conditions may be able to help you make your final decision.
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Frequently asked questions
Which breed of dog has the most health issues?
Several breeds of dogs are known to have a higher risk of health problems. Cocker Spaniels, for instance, have a wide range of health issues and are often considered one of the breeds with the highest number of health problems. Bulldogs, pugs, and German shepherds also frequently face health challenges, such as respiratory problems, hip dysplasia, and eye problems respectively.
What is the #1 health problem amongst dogs?
The most common health problem amongst dogs can vary based on factors like breed and age. However, obesity is a widespread issue affecting dogs of all breeds and ages. It can lead to other serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help keep your dog’s weight in check.
Which small dogs have the most health problems?
Small dogs, like their larger counterparts, can also be prone to several health issues. For example, pugs often deal with eye problems and respiratory issues due to their distinctive facial structure. Similarly, cocker spaniels, despite their small size, are known to have a high number of health issues.
Are there any dogs that AREN’T ticking time bombs?
While it’s true that some breeds are more prone to health issues than others, it doesn’t mean that all dogs are “ticking time bombs.” Many breeds are known for their robust health, such as the Australian cattle dog, beagle, and Australian shepherd. These breeds are often considered among the healthiest. However, individual health can vary greatly within a breed, and a lot depends on factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.
What are five dog breeds that vets worry about most?
Based on various sources, veterinarians often express concern for breeds like the cocker spaniel, bulldog, pug, German shepherd, and Labrador retriever due to their predisposition to certain health issues. Regular vet check-ups are important for early detection and management of potential health problems, regardless of your dog’s breed.
What are some examples of dogs that have suffered serious health problems due to human-guided breeding?
Selective breeding, often guided by humans for specific traits, can unfortunately lead to serious health problems in some dog breeds.
- Akitas. Known for their striking looks, Akitas are susceptible to health issues like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (a degenerative eye disorder), and allergies.
- Rottweilers. This large breed often experiences joint problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as arthritis.
- Flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic breeds). Breeds like pugs, boston terriers, and bulldogs, known for their distinctive short noses and flat faces, often suffer from breathing difficulties, skin fold infections, eye issues, and heatstroke due to their unique facial structure.
- Pedigree dogs. Many pedigree breeds can suffer from a range of health issues due to selective breeding. These can range from minor irritations to serious, life-threatening conditions.
