Your pet’s breed determines many of the traits you love such as your four-legged friend’s temperament, stature, personality, and behavior. However, some genetic traits can also be responsible for specific pet health conditions. Many medical issues primarily affect certain breeds, from musculoskeletal issues to allergies to cardiovascular problems. Our Tamberly Animal Hospital team explains breeds’ disease predispositions, early disease detection, and disease prevention measures to help ensure your unique four-legged friend’s health and well-being. 

Breed-specific concerns in dogs

Genetics are responsible for many hereditary conditions affecting dogs. However, this doesn’t mean your pet is destined to develop these health issues. Our Tamberly Animal Hospital team can closely monitor your pet and manage medical issues through awareness and early intervention. The following common dog breeds can be affected by hereditary conditions:

  • Labrador retrievers — Labs are one of the most popular dog breeds, beloved by many because of their friendly, laid-back demeanor. However, Labradors are prone to obesity, hip dysplasia, and certain cancers such as mast cell tumors.
  • German shepherd dogs — Known for their loyalty and intelligence, German shepherd dogs are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy, a condition that affects the spinal cord and gradually leads to paralysis.
  • Bulldogs — This stocky breed often faces respiratory issues related to brachycephalic syndrome because of their unique facial structure. Bullies can also develop skinfold dermatitis and hip dysplasia.
  • Golden retrievers — While friendly and outgoing, golden retrievers are prone to cancer, particularly lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma, along with hip dysplasia and certain heart conditions.
  • Boxers — Boxers commonly suffer from heart conditions, such as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), as well as hip dysplasia and certain cancers.
  • Doberman pinschers — Dobermans are loyal, intelligent dogs, but they are predisposed to cancer, gastric torsion (i.e., bloat), and dilated cardiomyopathy—enlarged heart.
  • Cavalier King Charles spaniels — This pint-sized spaniel can develop heart conditions, including mitral valve disease (MVD), syringomyelia, spinal disease, and joint problems.  

Breed-specific concerns in cats 

Pedigree felines are predisposed to health conditions as a result of poor breeding practices. The following cat breeds are genetically predisposed to health issues:

  • Persians — With their luxurious coats and distinctive flat faces Persians often develop polycystic kidney disease (PKD), dental issues, and respiratory problems as a result of brachycephalic syndrome. 
  • Siamese — Known for their striking blue eyes and unique vocalization, Siamese are predisposed to respiratory conditions, such as asthma, and dental problems.
  • Maine coons — These gentle and gorgeous giants are susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), hip dysplasia, and spinal issues such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
  • Bengals — With their wild appearance and playful demeanor, Bengals are predisposed to specific gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
  • Scottish folds — Known for their unique folded ears, Scottish folds can suffer from degenerative joint disease and certain heart conditions because of genetic mutation.

Breed awareness and veterinary intervention

While some of these conditions may be disconcerting, many medical issues can be treated or managed to ensure your furry friend’s health and longevity. Genetics plays a crucial role in health, as do veterinary medicine and at-home care. Your pet’s breed may make them susceptible to hereditary conditions, but this does not mean that your furry pal will develop them. Our Tamberly Animal Hospital team is knowledgeable about breed-related health conditions and will closely monitor your pet’s health. 

While genetics play a significant role in your pet’s well-being and longevity, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary exams can help mitigate these risks. You can better address and manage your pet’s potential health issues by remaining vigilant for your furry pal’s breed-related health conditions. If you have questions about your pet’s breed and health, contact our Tamberly Animal Hospital team for an appointment.