Have you finally decided to include a furry companion in your family? The largest part of potential dog parents looks for cute-looking canines without taking any notice of their overall health condition. Prior to becoming a pet parent, one is expected to learn everything about the potential health issues in distinctive dog breeds. Certain breeds are incredibly prone to hereditary medical conditions and disorders, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal atrophy, degenerative myelopathy, etc. Certain breeds are prone to hereditary medical conditions and disorders such as hip or elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal atrophy, degenerative myelopathy, etc. While advances in veterinary care are becoming more effective, pet care costs are rising. Bivvy Pet Insurance will help protect you from the burden of unexpected medical bills so you can stay focused on helping your pet recover.
Take a look at some of the most common health issues in popular dog breeds.
Basset Hound
The sad, drooping eyes of Basset Hounds are a common cause of health issues in these canines, which are susceptible to developing cherry eye. It refers to the inflammation of the third eyelid, manifested with visible pink tissue in the corner of the eye, swelling, and dryness. Also, their unusually long ears are often subjected to ear infections, which can be prevented with regular cleaning. Click here to learn how to recognize and treat cherry eye in canines.
Furthermore, the short stature of Basset Hounds is responsible for the development of intervertebral disc disease and hip dysplasia. Both conditions impose movement restrictions and inflict overwhelming pain when lacking treatment. The more weight these canines gain over the years, the greater the pressure on their legs, which worsens the symptoms of these disorders.
Labrador and Golden retrievers
Labradors and Golden retrievers are loved for their vigor, intelligence, and affectionate personality. Although their fair share of daily exercise substantially reduces the risk of health issues, these gentle creatures aren’t immune to certain ailments and disorders. For instance, Labradors are susceptible to obesity if not trained regularly, as weight gain is known to increase the risk of joint disease.
In addition, Labradors have a genetic predisposition to both elbow and hip dysplasia, as well as to retinal atrophy. This eye disorder causes blindness in canines, which gradually progresses over the years until dogs become entirely blind. In contrast, Golden retrievers are genetically predisposed to developing type 1 diabetes. Since diabetes is present in both young and old Golden retrievers, pet parents are advised to take their companions for regular blood tests in order to detect the disease in the early stages.
German shepherd
German shepherds, popular for their exceptional intelligence, are susceptible to a series of hereditary conditions. Nowadays, there is a myriad of informative sites, like https://www.holistapet.com/, providing pet parents with guides to the personality traits and potential health issues in various dog breeds. Although German shepherd owners can’t eliminate the risk of such hereditary conditions, they can at least alleviate the symptoms.
In addition, this dog breed is most susceptible to suffering from hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. The former refers to the deformity of the hip socket, whereas the latter is known to affect the spinal cord in German Shepherds. These health conditions gradually contribute to the development of arthritis, paralysis, and lameness.
Pug
The flat faces of pugs are mostly to blame for their breathing problems. Most of these canines suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which impedes pugs from breathing properly. As a result, this breed of dogs is prone to snoring and gasping for breath in humid and scorching weather.
Pugs are unfortunately likely to suffer from a hereditary brain disorder, known as Pug Dog Encephalitis, manifested with brain inflammation, seizures, and potential death. Since these wrinkly creatures are also susceptible to obesity, pet parents are encouraged to subject them to moderate physical exercise.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are adored for their warm-hearted nature and flowing coat, which requires regular brushing to prevent hair knots. These beloved pets are likely to suffer from cataracts and glaucoma, referring to the most common eye disorders in canines.
Moreover, owners of Cocker Spaniels are advised to take their pets for regular examinations in order to reduce the risk of heart and liver disease. Also, the only way to prevent ear infections is to have their ears frequently cleaned.
Final thoughts
Becoming a dog parent is no joke.
Get familiar with the potential health issues of the breed you find appealing so as to prevent unpleasant surprises!