When it comes to your canine, love can cost more than you expect—especially when health problems arise.
Unfortunately, dogs with health issues often end up back in the shelter. And though these pesky problems may deter some, your love knows no bounds. Know what to anticipate with this list of top 10 dog breeds with the most health problems.
Miniature Poodle
Common health problems in Miniature Poodles include:
Most of the problems in poodles are eye-related, such as glaucoma or cataracts. Other health issues to look for are epilepsy, a neurological disorder causing seizures in dogs, and a degeneration of the leg and hip bones, causing immobilization.
Although all Poodle variations carry similar health issues, they generally live a long life. Ensure your Miniature Poodle’s life is healthful with routine visits to the vet.
Newfoundland
Common health problems of Newfoundlands include:
- Heart problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
Large, stocky dog breeds—they carry huge hearts and health issues in one. Because of their size, Newfoundlands often have heart problems. As the dog grows older, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis is a real threat: a decrease in blood flow to the heart, causing sudden death by cardiac arrest.
On the other hand, your Newfoundland’s heart is large enough to love you and your entire family for life. Monitor his heart and bone health to maintain his well-being.
Rottweiler
Common health problems in Rottweilers include:
- Epilepsy
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Bone problems
Like the Newfoundland, Rottweilers share a proclivity for dysplasia. Unlike the Newfoundland, however, this breed is predisposed to osteochondrosis: a degenerative bone disorder resulting in weak and brittle bones in dogs, as well as arthritis and bone cancers.
If you choose to take a Rottweiler home, just be sure to monitor his heart and bone health regularly.
Labrador Retriever
Common health problems of Labrador Retrievers include:
- Cancer
- Hip/elbow/shoulder dysplasia
- Exercise-induced collapse (EIC)
- Muscular Dystrophy
A beloved family dog, the popular Labrador Retriever is prone to several health problems, leading to a relatively shorter lifespan of 11 years. Cancer and dysplasia are common in this breed, along with Muscular Dystrophy—a progressive loss of muscle mass.
Keep an eye on your Lab for signs of canine cancer, bone issues, muscle degeneration, and problems with the eyes or blood sugar.
Basset Hound
Common health problems of Basset Hounds include:
- Bloat
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Canine Thrombopathia
Known for their abnormally-shaped torsos and small, short legs, it’s no surprise that this breed made the list. Unfortunately, the breeding practices that made the Basset Hound so desirable have led to a slew of blood disorders which can lead to clotting.
As a Basset Hound owner, conducting regular blood, bone, and eye tests is key to long-term health for your dog.
Saint Bernard
Common health problems of Saint Bernards include:
- Bone cancer
- Cardiac disorders
The Saint Bernard sees a shorter-than-average life span of 9 years due to a predisposition to osteosarcoma and cardiomyopathy, an abnormality in the heart muscle.
If you own a Saint Bernard or are considering taking one home, keep a close eye on him. Irregularities in walking may indicate hip or elbow dysplasia or pain from canine bone cancer, while changes in activity or breathing point to possible heart problems.
Golden Retriever
Common health problems of Golden Retrievers include:
- Osteosarcoma
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Cataracts
One of the most well-known breeds, the Golden Retriever hailed from the U.K. into the homes of families across America. As a larger dog, Goldens are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and are predisposed to cancer, cataracts, and even allergies.
Despite the ongoing list, Golden Retrievers are well-loved pets that will make a good home for any owner open to ongoing tests—blood; eye; elbow and hip, and general health screens.
Bulldog
Common health problems found in Bulldogs:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elongated soft palate
- Internalized tail
What makes a Bulldog so appealing is also its downfall. The Brachycephalic nature of its flat face is trademark from generations of exploiting a skull abnormality. In turn, this process has bred hereditary and congenital disorders.
Health issues aside, Bulldogs remain a beloved breed. If you are willing to monitor their health with regular check-ups, a Bulldog may still be the right dog for you!
German Shepherd
Common health problems of German Shepherds include:
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Cataracts
Common with other large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia on top of cataracts, cardiomyopathy, skin allergies, and more. Many of these issues stem from inbreeding to maintain the purebred look. German Shepherds mixed with other dog breeds carry much less risk for health issues.
Cocker Spaniel
Common health problems found in Cocker Spaniels include:
- Orthopedic issues
- Epilepsy
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Eye-related problems
Although Cocker Spaniels are prone to problems they live an average of 14 years. Because of their susceptibility to illness, a Cocker Spaniel owner should not only have prior experience with dogs but be willing to conduct routine health tests and regular exercise.
