In addition to having unique personalities, each type of dog also has varying degrees of health problems.
In addition to the innate genetic factors of various dogs, there are also many breeds of modern pet dogs and family dogs that were bred by humans through breeding in response to specific needs in the past. At the same time, they also caused the occurrence of certain genetic diseases.
Therefore, before adopting and raising a dog, owners should understand what health problems they may face in the future, and try to take care and prevent them in advance when they are puppies.
Why do dogs have genetic diseases?
According to statistics from the Environment & Animal Society of Taiwan, hereditary diseases in dogs can be roughly divided into six categories:
Hip and elbow hypoplasia, eye disease, heart and circulatory disease, skin disease, orthopedic disease, and congenital deafness.
Most of the causes of these genetic diseases are related to genetic defects. Under normal circumstances, in order for a species to continue to survive, it should continue to eliminate genetically defective individuals and continue to reproduce healthy individuals.
But why are dogs' genetic defects preserved? The reason lies in artificial breeding.
At first, humans mostly bred dogs for "work needs." The requirements for breeds were mostly for hunting, being physically strong, being able to adapt to the natural climate, and being quick to respond.
However, as times change, people's requirements for dogs tend to be more "entertainment needs." The purpose of breeding is no longer to make dogs stronger, but to be beautiful, stylish, popular, etc.
Breeding to produce dogs that are very large or very small, with larger eyes or shorter noses, shorter hair or even hairless dogs (hairless dogs and cats are all conditions caused by genetic mutations and are deliberately bred by humans to preserve them).
Later, in order to maintain the purity of the breed, the dogs were inbred. The result of retaining the purity of the breed was that the genetic diseases caused by the genetic defects were also completely retained in the dogs' bodies.
Most dogs are born with health problems that cannot be completely cured by medication or surgery.
However, some congenital degenerative problems can be delayed by early maintenance, changing living habits or using treatments. Therefore, it is very important for owners to understand their dog's breed and common diseases!
Let's take a look at the following common dog breeds and what common genetic diseases each has. Try to prevent and check them in advance to reduce the occurrence of health problems.
Common diseases of Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, which looks cute and has a unique cat-like personality, is a popular dog breed in Taiwan.
However, Shiba Inu people often suffer from these three health problems in middle and old age: degenerative eye diseases, joint diseases, and endocrine disorders. Diseases that often appear in Shiba Inu include:
1. Retinal degeneration
It is a hereditary disease. Dogs with disease factors will be passed on to the next generation, but not every dog will develop the disease.
In addition to the fact that not every dog with the genetic factor will develop the disease, retinal degeneration mostly occurs in dogs after they are middle-aged and older.
By the time this genetic disease is discovered, dogs have probably already reproduced to the next generation, so the disease is passed down from generation to generation. In addition, this disease is also prone to occur in Akita dogs that look very similar to Shiba Inu.
Symptom:
- Night vision decreases, the dog is afraid of moving at night, is unwilling to enter dark places, or its movements in dark places become significantly slower.
- After the middle stage of the disease, the dog's daytime vision will also decrease, and the pupil will gradually dilate.
- When the disease progresses to the most severe stage, the dog will gradually become blind, become depressed, unwilling to move, often collide with objects, and lose its sense of direction.
2. Glaucoma and cataracts
Glaucoma is mainly caused by high intraocular pressure, which may cause vision loss in dogs. Cataracts occur when dogs age and the lens of their eyes gradually hardens and becomes cloudy, blocking light and vision.
Symptom:
- Frequently squinting and crying
- Corneal discoloration
- Red eyes, increased tears and eye mucus
- The transparency of the eyeball is reduced and white turbidity appears (cataract)
3. Abnormal joint development
Knee dislocation and hip dysplasia are hereditary diseases that often occur in Shiba Inu dogs.
Congenital knee joint dislocation will cause the dog's knee joint to be unable to return to its normal position, affecting movement. Abnormal hip joint development may cause tissue proliferation and other problems, making it difficult for Shiba Inu to move.
Symptom:
- Decreased mobility and unwillingness to walk
- Lame
- Unable to fully extend the foot
4. Endocrine disorders
Endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism are also more likely to occur in Shiba Inu dogs. Since the symptoms of endocrine disorders are difficult to observe, when you notice related problems, you should proactively inform your veterinarian and conduct further examinations.
Symptom:
- Appetite changes significantly
- Drastic changes in weight (loss or gain)
- Heavy hair loss
- Tired
Shiba Inu are prone to genetic diseases such as eye lesions and endocrine disorders.
Common diseases of Huskies
In the past, Huskies were used as sled dogs and working dogs in extreme cold areas. They have a strong physique and are highly active. However, with such a strong physique, they are still prone to some congenital health problems:
1. Glaucoma, cataract, retinal degeneration
Huskies with attractive eyes, like the above-mentioned Shiba Inu, are prone to eye diseases, which can seriously affect their vision in old age. Retinal degeneration is more likely to cause blindness in dogs. The common symptoms are as mentioned above. When you find that the active Husky refuses to move.
Usually brave and straightforward, they suddenly become frightened, highly sensitive, and even unwilling to step into dark places at night. It is necessary to seek medical attention as soon as possible and inform the doctor of the change in the dog's behavior.
2. Hip dysplasia
Huskies are also prone to congenital hip dysplasia. They are extremely mobile. If they have hereditary hip joint problems, they may suffer from dislocation and pain during activities.
Hip dysplasia is particularly common in large dogs. It is recommended that owners of Huskies or other large dogs have their dogs examined by a veterinarian through palpation, X-rays, etc. when the dog is three to four months old.
Understand whether your dog has congenital hip joint development problems, so that you can start to control your weight as soon as possible, take joint care products, and avoid strenuous exercise that damages the joints, so as to reduce the pain and severity of aging.
In addition, congenital hip dysplasia is a hereditary disease. As long as you have such a gene, you will almost certainly develop the disease. Therefore, the dog should be allowed to complete the birth control surgery to avoid the disease continuing to cause pain to future generations of dogs.
Symptom:
- Decreased mobility, running, and jumping abilities
- Pain when straightening the back foot
- Rear foot muscle atrophy (due to discomfort, the force is distributed to the front feet, resulting in stronger front foot and shoulder muscles)
3. Round lupus erythematosus
It is an autoimmune skin disease that commonly occurs in shepherd dogs, wolfdogs and huskies. Lesions mostly occur on the nose of dogs.
Sun exposure and photosensitivity are possible factors that cause this disease. When you find that your dog has similar symptoms, reduce the time spent in the sun and take it to an animal hospital for treatment immediately. The lesions will improve and disappear after treatment.
Symptom:
- Nose lines disappear
- The tip of the nose fades from black to gray-blue
- Ulcers on the tip of the nose and bridge of the nose, even extending to around the eyes, ears, and lips
Hereditary diseases and lesions are prone to occur in the mysterious and beautiful eyes of Huskies.
Common diseases of French Bulldogs
The cute, silly and docile French Bulldog can be said to be the most popular dog breed among "flat-faced dogs".
However, their cute flat faces give them naturally short respiratory tracts, and also bring some health problems and diseases to the French Bulldogs:
1. Heat stroke
French bulldogs have shorter airways, which make breathing less smooth than other dog breeds, making it harder for them to dissipate heat.
It is easy to be out of breath after walking for a while, and what is even more dangerous is heat stroke. Severe heat stroke may even cause death.
French bulldogs are not dogs that require a lot of activity. They are suitable for indoor activities. If you want to take them out, please avoid going out when the weather is hot and the sun is strong, and pay attention to replenishing water.
Symptom:
- Breathing too fast
- Vomiting, weakness
- Coma
2. Short-muzzled canine respiratory syndrome
As mentioned above, French Bulldogs have shorter and smaller respiratory tracts and are prone to respiratory hypoplasia, narrow nostrils, and long soft palate.
These problems can cause respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing in dogs, and severe cases may lead to death. Therefore, many airlines prohibit the carriage of dogs with flat faces and short muzzles.
It is precisely because dogs are prone to difficulty breathing and even death from suffocation due to excitement and high-pressure environment while flying at high altitudes.
Symptom:
- Difficulty breathing, snoring, wheezing
- Mouth breathing, retching
- Tongue becomes purple and limp
- Because you have to inhale harder, it is easy to squeeze the stomach and cause gastroesophageal reflux symptoms.
3. Interdigital inflammation, skin diseases, eczema, heavy body odor
Due to the inheritance of congenital genes, most French Bulldogs have allergies and are prone to skin diseases such as eczema and folliculitis.
French Bulldog whose skin is more wrinkled may also be prone to body odor problems due to oil and dirt hidden under the skin.
Symptom:
- Tickle
- Dry and flaky skin
- Bite the body, lick the feet
- Rash
The flat face makes French Bulldog's respiratory tract short and narrow, making it prone to severe respiratory symptoms and heatstroke.
Common diseases of Corgis
With short legs and round butts, Corgis are a popular dog breed around the world. Even the Queen of the United Kingdom bowed to Corgis and kept many Corgis in the palace.
However, being born with short legs and long spine also causes Corgis to have some common health problems:
1. Hemophilia
Some Corgis have congenital insufficient coagulation due to genetic factors. They will be unable to coagulate when injured or operated on, which may result in massive blood loss.
Since it is a hereditary congenital disease, there are no observable symptoms. It can only be discovered through genetic testing by veterinarians and prevented before surgery.
2. Urinary tract diseases
Also due to genetic factors, Corgis are prone to bladder, urethral stones, renal vasodilation and other problems.
Symptom:
- Hematuria
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty urinating
- Weak, tired
- Vomit
3. Intervertebral disc herniation and spinal lesions
Due to the long body of Corgis, strenuous exercise such as jumping and running can easily put pressure on the spine, causing intervertebral discs to herniate and touch peripheral nerves, causing pain and inconvenience in movement.
In addition, unlike the acute problem of disc herniation, Corgi may occasionally suffer from chronic degenerative spinal neuropathy due to genetic problems.
A condition similar to ALS occurs, and gradually paralysis occurs, requiring a wheelchair to walk! The specific cause of Corgi's paralysis is currently unknown, but it can only be speculated that it is genetically related.
If you want to reduce the occurrence of spinal problems, pet owners should pay attention to reducing strenuous activities such as walking up and down stairs, jumping up and down, etc. Daily activities should choose gentle exercises that put less burden on the joints and are less likely to jump.
Symptom:
- Decreased mobility and unwillingness to jump
- Muscle weakness
- Incontinence
Corgis are prone to problems such as disc herniation and spinal neuropathy, which may cause the dog to have difficulty moving.
Common diseases in Maltese
The pure white Maltese with a docile personality are the favorite of many female owners. However, their small bodies are actually susceptible to some common diseases of small dogs:
1. Congenital heart disease (canine chronic valvular heart disease CVHD)
Of all dog breeds, Maltese are among the most susceptible to congenital heart disease, and canine chronic heart valve disease is more common in small dogs. However, in clinical outpatient clinics, Maltese account for 70 to 80% of heart disease cases in small dogs.
What's more troublesome is that congenital heart disease is a chronic disease that is difficult to observe at ordinary times. Owners often only find out when their dogs develop more serious symptoms after they are 6 or 7 years old.
For Maltese dogs suffering from congenital heart disease and starting treatment, owners must pay attention to making the dog take medicine on time, maintain a healthy diet, and strictly prohibit strenuous exercise.
If the dog also exhibits the following symptoms when inactive, it means that the heart disease has become more serious and death from acute heart failure may occur at any time, so seek medical attention immediately.
Symptom:
- Shortness of breath and coughing after strenuous exercise
- Breathing and coughing when resting or walking
2. Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus commonly occurs in small dogs such as Maltese, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier, and Chihuahua. It is caused by a congenital problem that causes the absorption of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain to compress the brain tissue, resulting in neurological symptoms.
Symptom:
- Eyes and mouth are crooked
- Epilepsy
- Poor vision
- Walking crookedly, unsteadily, hitting head against wall
Maltese are a dog breed prone to congenital heart disease, so owners must pay special attention.
Common diseases in Golden Retrievers
In fact, it's not just small dogs. Large dogs also have many common health problems.
The golden retriever with a gentle personality is the perfect family companion dog. They are always docile no matter how they treat children or the elderly. There are also some congenital diseases that you need to pay attention to!
1. Hip dysplasia
Like large dogs such as huskies and labradors, golden retrievers often suffer from hip dislocation and other problems. This problem may be aggravated by excessive weight and excessive strenuous exercise.
Your dog should be checked by a doctor for hip joint development problems before the dog starts to gain weight rapidly.
Avoid excessive weight and rapid growth during the growth period of the dog, which may cause the bone growth to fail to keep up with muscle growth, which may aggravate the problem of hip dysplasia.
2. Hereditary heart disease
Although golden retrievers are large dogs, there are still many golden retrievers with hereditary heart disease.
Likewise, problems such as being overweight may exacerbate such health conditions. The symptoms are similar to those of heart disease in small dogs. If symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing occur, seek medical examination as soon as possible.
3. Tumor
Golden retrievers are one of the dog breeds more prone to tumors, such as lymphoma, angiosarcoma or benign lipoma.
According to statistics, cancer (malignant tumors) accounts for 60% of golden retriever deaths, twice as much as the average for other dog breeds.
However, the symptoms of tumors will change depending on the location of growth, so it is difficult for owners to observe. If you find behavioral changes or abnormalities in your dog, you should keep a record and go to the animal hospital for examination.
Symptom:
- A soft, movable lump on the skin may be a lipoma
- Lameness and leg swelling may be signs of bone cancer
- Dark spots in your mouth or skin may be melanoma
- Swollen lymph nodes in your neck or knees may be lymphoma
- Drastic weight loss
Golden retrievers are prone to tumor-related diseases, and malignant tumors can lead to cancer.
Common diseases in Labradors
Labradors are smart and highly obedient and are perfect working dogs. Many people have the impression that Labradors are well-behaved but a bit greedy. Their innate genes and appetite also make them prone to some health problems:
1. Obesity
Labradors who love to eat need to consume a lot of calories through a lot of activity, otherwise they will easily become overweight due to their strong appetite.
Obesity will extend to more health problems, such as hip joint pressure, heart disease, diabetes, etc.
Just like the hip joint problem mentioned above, Labradors are dogs that tend to grow too fast due to their good appetite. Owners must pay special attention to this during the puppy period, discuss closely with veterinarians and keep dog growth records.
Although obesity is not a hereditary disease, the chronic diseases derived from it may also harm the health of dogs and even cause death. It is a health problem that cannot be ignored.
2. Odor dermatitis
Due to genetic problems, Labradors are prone to odor dermatitis, itching caused by allergies, and more skin problems such as infections and skin ulcers may develop after the dog scratches and licks them.
Symptom:
- Scratch
- Rub on the floor
- Eczema
- Abnormal hair loss
Labradors are prone to skin symptoms, odor dermatitis and other conditions, so they should pay attention to maintenance.
Common diseases of Mixed Breed
For owners who are preparing to adopt, or have already raised mixed breed, congratulations! Mixed-breeds are less likely to suffer from the genetic diseases common with purebred dogs.
Mixed-breeds are genetically diverse and are less likely to suffer from congenital heart disease, congenital deafness, eye diseases, joint and bone hypoplasia, and neurological diseases than purebred dogs.
Moreover, their resistance to various diseases caused by bacteria and viruses is better than that of purebred dogs.
However, because there are a variety of dog genes in the body, it is difficult to predict genetic mutation diseases caused by gene mutations, but the incidence of such alternative diseases is also relatively low.
Mixed-breeds, who have many pedigrees, are not as prone to genetic diseases as purebred dogs.
Conclusion
Of course, each dog's physique and living conditions are different, and the diseases and health problems they may develop are also different. Not every disease is necessarily caused by genetics.
Similarly, it does not necessarily mean that a certain dog breed will not suffer from diseases that are common in that breed. If you want to protect your dog's health, regular health checkups and consultation with a veterinarian are the most guaranteed ways.
