Dog & Breed Specific Diseases

Types of Diseases

There are numerous diseases that many dog breeds are genetically predisposed to. Some conditions are due to a weakened immune system, while others simply occur because a breed is prone to genetic abnormalities that may affect the health and development of a dog's eyes, ears, skin, or gastrointestinal, nervous, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, reproductive or circulatory systems. Be sure to research your desired type pf dog and check with the breeder.

According to the Small Animal Veterinary Association, Dobermans, American pit bull terriers, Rottweilers and English springer spaniels are all susceptible to the parvovirus infection, which is characterized by bloody diarrhea, among other symptoms. Even though an unvaccinated dog may come down with the disease because it is highly contagious, these breeds seem to be the most at risk. The association believes this may be have to do with a weakened immune system.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the leg and hip joints do not rest in the right place, causing the leg to slide partially out of the hip socket. This can lead to osteoarthritis, which can be quite painful for dogs. This occurs most often in large dog breeds, as they grow at a faster rate than other puppies, which may cause the joints to form incorrectly. German shepherds, mastiffs, golden retrievers, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers and Labrador retrievers commonly experience this disease, as do cocker spaniels and some springer spaniel mixes, despite their smaller sizes.

Some breeds inherit heart diseases that may or may not affect the quality and length of their lives. Cavalier King Charles spaniels can inherit degenerative mitral valve disease, which can cause heart failure as they age. Dobermans, Great Danes and Boxers can have dilated cardiomyopathy, which can cause heart failure. Aortic stenosis, a congenital heart disease, is common in bulldogs, boxers, German shepherds, Rottweilers and golden retrievers.

Epilepsy, which is marked by fits of seizures, is common in German shepherds, dachshunds and beagles. Though these dogs are genetically predisposed to this condition, any breed may experience seizures or epileptic fits if the dog has suffered a major head trauma or has ingested something toxic, such as rat poison.