Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. This is due to the amazing characteristics, personality, and companionship that they offer. But just like other pets, dogs are also susceptible to health problems. You should know about common health disorders in popular dog breeds to keep your canine friend happy and healthy.
It is rightly said that healthy dogs are happy dogs. Health is wealth, which stands true for all living beings, including dogs. If your dog is unhealthy, you can’t enjoy all the perks of pet parenthood. So, keeping your dog healthy is in your and your dog’s best interest. Knowing what is normal and abnormal is necessary to offer veterinary care to your dog when needed. The first step in this regard can be learning about common health disorders that can affect your dog.
This article includes common health disorders in popular dog breeds. In the later part of the article, some tips have been shared that can help you take better care of your canine friend. If you take good care of your doggo, you can enjoy a mutual bond of love and care for many many years.
Common Health Disorders in Popular Dog Breeds
The breeds that will be covered in this article include
- Labrador Retriever
- Bulldogs
- German Shepherds
- Dachshunds
- Poodles
So let’s get started!
Common Health Problems in Labrador Retrievers
Labrador retrievers are arguably the most popular dog breed in the world. They make for a man’s best friend; they love playing fetch, learning tricks, and following their humans wherever they go.
The three most common health problems that can affect Labrador Retrievers are
- Hip Dysplasia
- Obesity
- Ear infections
Hip Dysplasia is a common problem affecting dogs, but certain breeds are more likely to suffer from it due to their genetic disposition. First of all, get your puppy from a trusted and reputable breeder who caters to good hip health of dogs. When you have got your dog, avoid exercises that can endanger your dog’s hip health. Offer nutritional supplements that help strengthen the skeletal system of your dog.
Hip Dysplasia affects almost 15% of the dog population.
Labrador Retrievers, just like all other dogs, require regular adequate exercise to stay happy and healthy. Unfortunately, without proper activity and a balanced diet, they’re more prone to gaining weight and developing obesity. Obesity can leave your dog predisposed to many health problems, including heart problems, diabetes, and mobility issues. So, instead of giving them peanut butter and treats, offer them carrots and apples as a special snack to keep off excess calories.
Labrador Retrievers have floppy ears that allow less air to enter the ear canal. This can lead to a darker and warmer environment inside the ears. Consequently, a higher chance of ear infection in labradors from bacteria, yeasts, and ear mites. If you see your dog scratching its ears frequently or shaking its head, it may have an ear infection. Treatment of ear infections in labrador retrievers depends on the cause of the problem. Your vet may ask you to get your dog’s ears trimmed. In any case, your veterinarian is the best person to consult with.
Common Health Problems in German Shepherds
German Shepherds are a protective, loyal breed, incredibly loving, and enjoy a strict training regimen. They offer a wide range of qualities that make them popular among dog lovers.
When talking about common health disorders in popular dog breeds, how can we miss German Shepherds!! They are likely to suffer from
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Degenerative Myelopathy
Unfortunately, due to hip and elbow dysplasia, the German shepherd is a dog breed prone to mobility issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia are due to genetic predisposition. Furthermore, German shepherds can develop arthritis, walking problems, and joint pain, so creating healthy mobility habits and a healthy diet is crucial to minimize joint pain.
Bloat is a life-threatening condition that can result in a twisted stomach due to gas accumulation. Due to the stomach twisting on itself, the blood supply may be stopped, leading to gangrene and other complications. German shepherds are at a high risk of developing bloat.
A dog suffering from bloat appears to be in much discomfort and pain. Avoid feeding your dog larger amounts of food at one time to prevent bloat. Feed smaller portions of food twice daily.
Degenerative Myelopathy is another condition that affects German shepherds. It starts with visible weakness and incoordination in the hind legs and may eventually lead to paralysis. Dog owners may confuse myelopathy with hip dysplasia and arthritis in the beginning. There is no proper treatment for this condition. Consultation with your veterinarian can help you improve the life quality of your best friend.
Common health problems in Bulldogs
Bulldog is a stocky, stumpy, and expressive breed that loves to have fun and is not afraid to sleep wherever they please.
Common health problems that can affect bulldogs include
- Brachycephalic syndrome
- Skin infections
- Hip dysplasia
The brachycephalic syndrome affects dogs and cats with shorter noses. Bulldogs can quickly develop respiratory problems due to their smashed-in snouts, small nostrils, and elongated soft palate. You should keep your bulldog cool in the hot summers and not go overboard with their exercise.
Skin infections are more common in bulldogs than in other dogs because they have multiple skin folds that trap moisture and bacteria. These conditions favor the growth of pathogens, leading to a higher rate of skin infections. Clean the skin folds of your bulldog regularly to prevent skin infections.
Hip Dysplasia is also common in bulldogs, as we discussed in Labradors.
French Bulldogs were ranked the most popular dog breed in the world in 2022 by American Kennel Club.
Common Health Issues in Dachshunds
With their adorably tiny bodies, long torsos, pointed faces, and stumpy arms; dachshunds are a popular dog breed. Their peculiar appearance is one of the reasons for their popularity among dog lovers.
Dachshunds are susceptible to
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Obesity
- Eye Problems
Unfortunately, due to their uneven body proportions, the dachshund breed has a higher risk of the intervertebral disc disease and back injuries. It is crucial that you promote a healthy diet and weight for your dachshund pup, along with limiting jumping off furniture or climbing stairs.
Due to a lack of exercise, dachshunds are more likely to suffer from obesity. You should control their calorie intake after consultation with your vet and provide regular exercise to keep them in shape.
Dachshunds are susceptible to a range of eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause vision loss and blindness. Regular health checkups with your vet and feeding diet rich in vitamins A and E can help you maintain the healthy eyes of your dachshund.
Health Disorders in Poodles
Poodles have a reputation for being highly intelligent and loyal to their human companions. Furthermore, they make the perfect show dog with exceptional proportions and well-trained behavior.
Poodles are susceptible to
- Addison’s disease
- Thyroid Problems
- Skin Allergies
- Eye Problems
Poodle dogs have a genetic predisposition for Addison’s disease. It is also called hypoadrenocorticism. It occurs when adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. This can result in weakness, dehydration, vomiting, and dehydration. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help your poodle dog live a normal healthy life. Treatment involves hormonal therapy.
Poodles can suffer from thyroid problems. There are two types of thyroid problems. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, hormones are released in excess and the dog may show weight loss, restlessness, and increased appetite. In case of hypothyroidism, hormonal secretions are decreased than normal. Poodle dogs suffering from hypothyroidism can show lethargy, weight gain, and hair loss.
A common health disorder of poodles is the increased risk of eye diseases, specifically glaucoma. Glaucoma occurs when fluids build up in the eye, resulting in pain, pressure, then blindness. If you catch glaucoma early, you can treat it with medications. However, surgery and eye removal may need to occur if it’s too developed.
Conclusion
Preventing your pooch from developing health disorders comes from observing and taking action before the conditions worsen. For that, knowing common health disorders in popular dog breeds is essential.
Speak with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog and ensure they’re always on the path to a long, happy, and healthy life.
