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Dog Breeds and Their Health Problems
Dog Breeds and Their Health Problems
When adopting a new pet, dog breeds and their health problems are a consideration. We all want our dogs to be as healthy as possible, and educating ourselves on what to expect can help us to plan for the health care of our four-legged friends. This article isn't meant to cover all the different dog breeds and their health problems (that would be a huge list!)... But we hope to summarize a few of the more common concerns.
Of course, just like with people, there are many other health issues that could potentially occur. Always bring your dog to the vet for an in-person examination if he's showing signs of illness or injury (please don't rely on information found on the internet - only with a thorough physical exam can your vet advise you on what to do next!).
· Large dogs such as German Shepherds, Malamutes, Golden Retrievers, etc.
Hip dysplasia is probably one of the more common problems associated with the larger breeds. Hip dysplasia can result in lameness, pain, and arthritis. 
· Dogs with deep chests such as the Basset Hound, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retriever, Great Dane, Akita, Doberman Pinschers, etc.
Bloat is a condition that appears more often in dogs with broad chests. This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach distends and may twist. Bloating is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately.
· Small dogs such as the Chihuahua, Beagle, Miniature Pinscher, Yorkshire Terrier, etc. A luxating patella or "dislocation of the kneecap" is fairly common in small breed dogs. Sometimes the dog will not appear bothered by it, while others may experience pain whenever the knee pops out. This condition can be surgically corrected by an orthopedic veterinary surgeon.
· Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with pushed-in faces or "snub" noses) such as the Pekingese, Pug, Boston Terrier, Shih-Tzu, Boxer, and Bulldog.
These breeds have a few more challenges than most. They may experience respiratory (breathing) problems; eye and eyelid problems (due to eyes that protrude more than most dogs); susceptibility to heat stress, exhaustion, or stroke; dental problems (shorted muzzle doesn't leave much room for teeth); skin fold infections; and difficult labor
· Dachshunds have a lot of back problems because of the shape of the spine. Their spine is long and it is best not to let these dogs do a lot of jumping up onto furniture. It is better to pick them up and place them where they want to go rather than allowing them to do this. If you are going to be away from your house anytime, it is a wise choice to keep your dog in a crate.
· Bulldogs have a lot of eye problems where the eyes water a lot and become red or inflamed. Their skin has a lot of folds around the face so it is wise to clean their face daily with a damp cloth and soap and water. Just be sure and rinse all the soap out well and you can also apply a soothing cream in the folds that your vet recommends. This breed of dog is very sensitive to heat, so in the summertime, very limited exercise is recommended and keep the dog in a well ventilated and air conditioned atmosphere will help to keep the dog comfortable.
· SharPei - There are several types of fur this breed has, but the only SharPei’s I have ever seen, their fur resembles tiny bristles and has the texture just like a bristle brush. They have wrinkles and folds of skin around their face and they tend to have eye problems that usually require surgery to correct. One problem I remember while working as a vet tech, is entropion, which caused the eyelid to roll under. The rolling under of the eyelashes allowed them to irritate the eye. This can be corrected with surgery and the skin is stitched up to keep the eyelids from rubbing on the eyes.
· Yorkies and Chihuahuas - These two breeds are prone to have problems with their teeth and require frequent dental cleanings. The teeth accumulate excessive tartar and a lot of times several teeth end up having to be pulled from the buildup of tartar. Small dogs such as these do not need to be allowed to jump onto or off of furniture as this may lead to leg fractures. The Yorkie and Chihuahua have little short legs with little short bones and it is best not to let them jump up and down off of anything. Especially if the furniture is real high. Even by allowing your dog to jump out of your arms can cause a bone fracture or breakage.
And finally, remember that just because a certain breed may have a higher incidence of certain health problems... it does not mean that they'll necessarily get it! Likewise, although a particular breed "usually" isn't susceptible to certain conditions, he could still develop it.
Consult with vets, adoption counselors, and breeders prior to making a decision to adopt a purebred or mixed-breed dog. Plan accordingly for his health care needs (pet insurance is available, too), and you'll enjoy many years of happy companionship. Pets are a lifetime commitment!
