Dog Breed Health Problems

Common Dog Breed Health Problems.

When you consider that cute puppy in the pet store window, perhaps the main determining factor is how large it will grow to be. However something most new pet owners do not think about are common dog breed health problems it may be predisposed to. That puppy is counting on you to provide for them a happy and disease-free life. But there are many dog breed health problems that are hereditary or congenital. If you purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder, they will have carefully chosen its parents to reduce the risk of dog breed health problems. Here are some of the more common diseases that you should be aware of. - Hip DysplasiaThis health problem is the most common hereditary disease for large breed dogs, including German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Mastiffs and Rottweilers.

Most common in the hips, this musculoskeletal disorder can also occur in the elbows. It occurs when the dog's femur does not fit into its pelvis correctly. A reputable breeder will provide x-rays to ensure that no genetic predisposition to this disease exists, but this is no guarantee. This disease will usually present itself by the time a dog reaches two years of age, but a dog may not exhibit symptoms of the disease until they are much older. - Heart Deformitiesdog breed health problems can also come from heart disease, which can take many forms. Tricuspid valve dysplasia and mitral valve disease are conditions where a leaky valve causes blood to continually backflow into the heart.

These dog breed health problems are common in Labrador Retrievers, Bull Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Miniature Poodles. Aortic Stenosis and Sub-Aortic Stenosis are caused by a narrowing of the aorta. These dog breed health problems are common to Newfoundlands and Boxers. - Respiratory DisordersShort-nosed dog breeds often have health problems with their respiration. Tracheal narrowing is very common among Boston Terriers and English Bulldogs, while French Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, Pekinese and Shih Tzus frequently suffer from lifelong respiratory difficulties. When researching which dog is right for you, it's best to factor in these common dog breed health problems before you bring that cute puppy home.

Always remember - it should be a life-long decision!