You consider your wonderful pet to be one of a kind—and they certainly are! However, pets can sometimes have several health conditions that are based on their size, species, and breed. Many pet medical issues are linked to their breed types. Understanding these breed-related health problems is crucial for proactive veterinary care. Our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team explores health issues to which certain dog or cat breeds may be predisposed and how we can effectively manage and mitigate these concerns.

Breed-related health problems in dogs

Dogs come in a wide range of sizes and appearances, and their breed can determine specific health challenges to which they’re predisposed. Of course, factors, such as excellent at-home care, proper nutrition, and consistent veterinary care, all play their part in promoting pet health. The following are some breed- and size-related health concerns in dogs:

  • Hip dysplasia — This skeletal condition is often diagnosed in large- and giant-breed dogs.
    Breeds, such as German shepherd dogs, Labrador retrievers, and rottweilers, are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint develops abnormally, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
  • Brachycephalic syndrome — Brachycephalic syndrome is a condition in flat-faced breeds or those with short snouts. Because of their facial anatomical abnormalities, these breeds often have respiratory difficulties. Pugs, bulldogs, and Pekingese are brachycephalic breeds. 
  • Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) — Certain large breeds, such as Doberman pinschers and Great Danes are genetically predisposed to DCM, which affects the heart muscle, leading to enlargement and decreased function. 
  • Patellar luxation — Luxating patella, often called trick knee, is a condition commonly affecting small-breed dogs, such as dachshunds and Chihuahuas. This condition leads to kneecap movement or displacement, setting up these breeds for cruciate ligament ruptures and other musculoskeletal injuries. 
  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) — Also known as bloat, GVD occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with air, preventing blood from circulating to the heart. The abdomen expands and is firm to the touch. This emergency mainly affects deep-chested dogs, including Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Irish setters. 
  • Cancer — While any pet can develop cancer as they age, certain breeds are more likely to develop specific cancer types. Boxers have a high risk of cancer, including mast cell tumors and lymphoma. Giant breeds, such as greyhounds, Great Danes, and rottweilers, are more often diagnosed with bone cancers than small-breed dogs. Beagles have a high bladder cancer risk. Remember that if you have a senior dog, they should have a minimum of twice-yearly veterinary exams as the cancer risk increases with age. 

Breed-related health problems in cats

Cats also have breed-related health concerns. The following conditions are typically linked to specific feline breeds:

  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) — Persian cats are particularly susceptible to PKD, a hereditary condition in which cysts develop in the kidneys, eventually leading to kidney failure. 
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — HCM is a common feline heart condition, with breeds such as Maine coons and ragdolls having a high risk. HCM causes heart muscle thickening, potentially leading to heart failure. 
  • Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) — Breeds, including Siamese and Burmese cats, are predisposed to FLUTD, a condition that causes urinary tract inflammation and blockages, often triggered by stress or diet.

Managing breed-related health problems in pets

Genetic testing can help identify predispositions to certain diseases, allowing for proactive health management and informed breeding decisions. No matter your pet’s breed, you can be instrumental in promoting their health and well-being. Regular veterinary exams are essential for early disease detection and preventive care. You can manage your pet’s breed-specific health risks by feeding them a nutritious diet, keeping their weight at a healthy level, ensuring they exercise regularly, and eliminating environmental stressors.

Understanding your furry friend’s breed-related health problems can help you take proactive steps to address them, such as scheduling regular veterinary visits and adjusting their lifestyle. Doing so helps ensure your pet has a good quality of life. Ultimately, your pet’s optimal health depends on many factors, not just breed. If you have questions about your pet’s breed-related health issues, call our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team.