The jewelry that cost Marie Antoinette her head
Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and temperaments, and this diversity has mainly been achieved through selective breeding. Unfortunately, this practice occasionally yields undesirable results, including a higher chance of certain hereditary defects. Therefore, despite all your loving care, it's useful to know which health issues could cause pain to your furry companion.
Click through the following gallery to discover the potential health issues different breeds face.
The Bernese mountain dog, a relatively large dog breed, originates from Switzerland and was originally kept as a farm dog. Unfortunately, this breed is prone to both hip and elbow dysplasia.
Weimaraners can have a variety of minor health issues, including Von Willebrand disease. Also found in humans, Von Willebrand disease sees blood not clotting properly.
Originally bred for hunting in the Middle Ages, the bloodhound can have a variety of eye issues, such as dry eye and eyelid deformities.
Sadly, the bulldog is regarded as the most extreme example of genetic manipulation in the dog-breeding world. This is why they suffer from a variety of health issues, such as congenital and hereditary problems.
A breed of water dog, the poodle can develop gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, which is often fatal without surgery.
Unfortunately, boxers are known for having a high cancer rate. But canine cancer can be treated if the disease is diagnosed in time and not aggressive.
One of the most common health concerns for Chihuahuas is patellar luxation, which can lead to arthritis. They can also suffer from cardiac and eye disease.
The friendly Cocker Spaniel is the breed that has the highest number of health concerns. While known to have a variety of orthopedic issues, the breed is also prone to epilepsy, heart disease, and liver disease.
Goldendoodles are the result of poodle-golden retriever crossbreeding. The breed is prone to subvalvular aortic stenosis, a heart condition.
Originally from Northern China, Chow Chows can suffer from a variety of severe orthopedic issues. They're also at a high risk for autoimmune disease and are at a predisposition for skin melanoma.
Considered one of the oldest dog breeds, originating back to ancient Rome, Rottweilers can suffer from epilepsy and osteochondrosis, a degenerative bone disease.
The most common hereditary defect in this breed is deafness. Dalmatians also have a tendency to develop kidney or bladder stones thanks to a condition called urolithiasis.
Known for their flat, pushed-in faces, pugs can suffer from breathing problems. This may progress into snoring at night or difficulty breathing in hot and humid weather.
Originally developed around 1890 by Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany, this breed can develop copper hepatopathy, which causes liver disease.
The German shepherd is particularly prone to hip dysplasia, which can be prevented through careful breeding and screening efforts.
As Yorkies are prone to digestive problems, their diet should be carefully monitored. They can also suffer from a hereditary defect called portosystemic shunt. This may decrease liver function and cause toxins to accumulate in the blood, which can lead to behavioral and neurological problems.
The popular golden retriever breed is known to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. Another health concern that can occur are allergies, but these are not as common.
Descendants from hunting dogs in Germany, the Great Dane breed is prone to developing hip dysplasia, which is common among large breeds.
A large working dog, the Newfoundland is prone to subvalvular aortic stenosis, a heart issue that can result in sudden death. And as with other big dogs, they're also prone to hip dysplasia.
Toy poodles can suffer from bladder stones. These can potentially be dangerous for these tiny dogs if they don't get proper veterinary care.
Known for their beautiful silky, red fur, the Irish setter is prone to epilepsy, which can potentially be stabilized through medication.
Originally bred to control vermin, over time the Kerry became a general working dog used in farms and as guard dogs. Today usually kept as a companion dog, this breed can suffer from eye issues, including cataracts and dry eye.
Basset hounds can suffer from a range of genetic diseases, such as bloat and Von Willebrand disease. However, this can be prevented through responsible breeding.
The popular Labrador retriever is prone to cancer and exercise-induced collapse (EIC), a screenable genetic syndrome. EIC is triggered by activities involving continuous intense exercise with excitement or stress.
The Lhasa Apso requires regular eye care to maintain optimal health. They suffer from tearing, which must be gently cleaned from the eyes on a routine basis with isotonic solution. This breed is also prone to a form of hereditary kidney disease.
Originally bred for rescue work by the hospice of the Great St. Bernard Pass on the Italian-Swiss border, this famous breed can suffer from bone cancer and cardiac disorders.
Miniature Australian shepherds can suffer from a variety of health concerns, including hip dysplasia, cataracts, and persistent pupillary membrane.
The Shetland sheepdog can suffer from dermatomyositis, also known as Sheltie skin syndrome. This manageable disease leads to hair loss issues.
Originating from Tibet, Shih Tzus are well known for their short snout and large round eyes, as well as their tiny and stout posture. Sadly, they can have patellar luxation, which creates unstable kneecaps.
Generally a healthy breed, the miniature poodle, like the standard and toy poodle breeds, can suffer from eye issues such as cataracts.
Sources: (The Mercury News) (Healthline)
See also: Little-known facts about dogs that may surprise you
Health problems linked to popular dog breeds
Issues that can plague the life of your four-legged friend
LIFESTYLE Pets
Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and temperaments, and this diversity has mainly been achieved through selective breeding. Unfortunately, this practice occasionally yields undesirable results, including a higher chance of certain hereditary defects. Therefore, despite all your loving care, it's useful to know which health issues could cause pain to your furry companion.
Click through the following gallery to discover the potential health issues different breeds face.