As the adage rightly says, ‘precaution is better than cure’ knowing which disease or disability my dog is predisposed to can help you prevent them; or at least make it bearable. But no breed is similar, and neither are their problems. Some are more prone to certain health conditions than others.
So this blog is just about that. Understanding what problem your doggo may be susceptible to. And we have picked 15 popular dog breeds and the health issues they are prone to.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are friendly, affectionate, and great with children. However, they are prone to obesity, hip dysplasia, and allergies. They can also suffer from ear infections and eye problems.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and courage. However, they are prone to hip dysplasia, digestive issues, and bloat. They can also suffer from allergies, skin conditions, and heart problems.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are another popular breed popular for their friendly and affectionate nature. However, they are prone to obesity, hip dysplasia, and cancer. They can also suffer from skin problems and allergies.
4. Bulldog
Bulldogs are known for their wrinkled faces and stubborn personalities. However, they are prone to respiratory, hip dysplasia, and skin problems. They can also suffer from eye problems and allergies.
5. Beagle
Beagles are a friendly and curious breed that is great with children. However, they are prone to obesity, hip dysplasia, and ear infections. They can also suffer from allergies and eye problems.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds are a small breed with a big personality. However, they are prone to spinal problems, obesity, and dental issues. They can also suffer from skin problems and allergies.
7. Boxer
Boxers are known for their energy and loyalty. However, they are prone to cancer, heart problems, and hip dysplasia. They can also suffer from allergies and skin problems.
8. Poodle
Poodles are a popular breed which come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. They are known for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. However, they are prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin conditions. They can also suffer from digestive issues and allergies.
9. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are a small breed but with feisty personalities. However, they are prone to dental issues, hypoglycemia, and luxating patella. They can also suffer from allergies and eye problems.
10. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are a loyal and protective breed. However, they are prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, and bloat. They can also suffer from allergies and skin problems.
11. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are a small breed known for their long, flowing hair. However, they are prone to dental issues, respiratory problems, and hip dysplasia. They can also suffer from allergies and eye problems.
12. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are some of the most elegant breeds out there. Beneath the thick, double coat, beautiful eyes there is a relentless energy hiding. However, they are prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin conditions. They can also suffer from allergies and digestive issues.
13. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed of dog. Although they look gorgeous in their long, silky hair, they are prone to dental, hypoglycemia, and liver problems. They can also suffer from allergies and eye problems.
14. Great Dane
Great Danes are a large breed that is known for their gentle nature. However, they are prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, and heart problems. They can also suffer from skin problems and allergies.
15. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are a popular breed who are known for their long, floppy ears. However, they are prone to ear infections, obesity, and dental issues. They can also suffer from skin problems and allergies.
Is Every dog susceptible to diseases
Well, yes. However, it’s important to remember that just because a breed is prone to a certain health issue, it doesn’t mean that every dog of that particular breed will develop those problems. But being aware of the potential health issues can help you take timely preventative measures to keep your dog healthy and joyful for an extended period of their short life.
What to do?
Regular veterinary checkups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can all help prevent health problems from developing. If you’re considering getting a dog, it’s important to research and choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and is less prone to health issues if that’s a concern for you.
If you noticed, one common issue most dogs have in common is Hip Dysplasia. Now that is the worst thing possible for a dog or any animal, including humans – the inability to move.
In case you see any signs of Hip Dysplasia or physical discomfort, reach out to an animal physical therapist. It is a drug-less way of helping your dog regain free movement. Of course, severe cases may not recover completely, especially with older dogs. Animal physical therapy can do wonders for your dog’s mental and physical health and let your dog be a dog with all the fun intact.
Conclusion
I started this article with an adage, so it makes sense I end it with one; ‘Knowledge is power’. Yes! Staying informed and ahead gives you power over a possible disease. A time advantage. Timely adjustments to lifestyle, food, and professional help, can help extend the life of your furry boy/girl and thus allow your dog to be a dog, i.e., live a happy, disease-free life. And to do that, you have to be vigilant and educated about your dog’s problems. I hope this blog helps you as I intended to. If this list does not have your dog’s breed in here, you are most welcome to connect with me here!
Thanks!
Josh – A trusted animal physical therapist in Salt Lake City, Utah.