Choosing healthy dogs: Avoid costly hereditary issues

Every dog owner hopes for a healthy, happy companion with many active years. However, some dog breeds are more prone to inherited health problems, which can lead to costly veterinary care. This guide helps you understand inherited diseases, exaggerated breed features affecting health, and how to choose a healthy puppy responsibly.

Inherited diseases and conditions in dogs

Certain dog breeds carry genetic disorders passed down from parent dogs that may be affected or carriers of such conditions. Common genetic disorders include Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, various eye diseases, Chiari Malformation, and Syringomyelia. Understanding these risks is key when selecting a breed or puppy for your family.

Exaggerated features in dogs and health risks

Some breeds have been bred to emphasise specific physical traits, such as the short, flat faces of Pugs and French Bulldogs, the excessive wrinkles of Chinese Shar Peis, or the long ears and loose skin of Basset Hounds. These features, while appealing aesthetically, often carry health challenges. For example, flat-faced breeds are prone to breathing difficulties, and large breeds are more susceptible to joint and heart problems. These health challenges often require ongoing veterinary attention and can affect quality of life.

How to choose a healthy puppy

Choosing a puppy isn’t just about looks. It’s crucial to prioritise health and temperament. Research the breed thoroughly, understanding the common health issues associated with it. Resources like Dogbreedhealth.com provide valuable breed-specific health information. If you’ve found a breed you love, look for puppies whose parents have been health tested and cleared of common inherited conditions, and who do not have extreme physical traits.

Health screening for dogs: What to ask your breeder

Responsible breeders carry out breed-relevant health screenings. For example, if considering a Labrador Retriever puppies or Golden Retriever puppies, ask about hip scores and eye testing results of the parents. These tests reduce but do not eliminate the risk of hereditary diseases. For crossbreeds like Cockapoos or Labradoodles, research both parent breeds’ health risks.

Choosing look versus health: Responsible breeding matters

When prioritising looks, consider breeders who favour healthier traits within the breed standard—such as Pugs with longer noses and fewer wrinkles to reduce breathing issues. Unfortunately, popular breeds attract unscrupulous breeders who prioritise profit over puppy health. Seek breeders who are transparent about health testing, offer support post-sale, and breed according to recognised standards to improve puppy welfare.

Choosing a puppy from a reputable breeder or adopting from a trusted rescue helps promote responsible ownership and reduces the incidence of hereditary issues.