EIGHT OF THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF CANINE GENETIC ISSUES
1.) Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects the hip joints of dogs, particularly larger breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers although it can affect many other breeds as well. It occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip do not fit together properly, causing wear and tear that leads to joint pain and stiffness. Dogs with hip dysplasia may have difficulty walking, jumping, or climbing stairs. While there is no cure for hip dysplasia, the good news is that there are various management techniques that can help reduce pain and improve mobility, such as weight management, physical therapy, and surgery. * This genetic test is one of the most important tests you can get for your dog as early in her/his life as possible.
2.) PRA: Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a group of genetic eye disorders that cause degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss and eventually blindness. It can affect many breeds, including Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, and Australian Shepherds. Early signs of PRA may include: night blindness or changes in the way a dog's eyes reflect light. There is currently no cure for PRA, but early detection can help slow the progression of the disease and improve a dog's quality of life.
3.) Ear Infections: Ear infections are a common health issue in dogs and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics. Common sense should tell us that Breeds with floppy ears, such as English Springer Spaniels and Basset Hounds, are more prone to ear infections because their ears hang down against their head and can trap moisture and bacteria. Signs of an ear infection may include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odor. Treatment typically involves cleaning the ear and using medication to clear up any infection. * Ideally you should be checking your dog’s ears on a daily basis for dirt, debris and any wax build up, just as you would your own ears and cleaning them as necessary, including regular health and wellness checkups at her/his veterinarian.
4.) Urinary Bladder Stones: Urinary bladder stones are mineral deposits that can form in a dog's urinary tract. Some breeds, such as Miniature Schnauzers, are more prone to developing bladder stones due to genetic factors. Signs of bladder stones may include: difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and abdominal pain. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the stones and dietary changes to prevent their recurrence. Certain nutrients can be supplemented in the form of food and or nutritional supplements in order to help prevent and treat urinary stones, so check with your veterinarian to see what is recommended for your pup.
5.) Allergic Skin Diseases: Allergic skin diseases are a common health issue in dogs and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics. Breeds such as Bulldogs and Boxers are more prone to allergies due to their skin folds and wrinkles, which trap moisture and bacteria. Signs of allergic skin disease may include: itching, redness, and skin infections. Treatment typically involves first to identifying and avoiding the allergen; the ‘root’ cause, as well as using medication to manage symptoms.
6.) Heart Diseases: Heart diseases such as: Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Mitral Valve Disease are genetic conditions that can affect many breeds, including Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Doberman Pinschers. These conditions cause the heart to enlarge or weaken, leading to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. Treatment may include medication and dietary changes to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
7.) Degenerative Myelopathy: Degenerative Myelopathy is a genetic condition that affects the spinal cord of dogs, particularly German Shepherds. It causes progressive weakness and paralysis of the hind legs, leading to mobility issues and eventually full paralysis. There is currently no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy, but early detection can help slow the progression of the disease and improve a dog's quality of life.
8.) Brachycephalic Syndrome: Brachycephalic Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects dogs with short, flat noses, such as Bulldogs and Pugs. It can cause respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing, snoring, and gagging, as well as dental and eye problems. Treatment may involve surgical correction of the airways. *Generally it is not recommended to live in a hot, humid, or hot dry climate if you are a pet parent to a Brachycepahalic breed as it just makes it that much more difficult for them to lead and enjoy a life where they can get out and about with you, go places and do things without it causing them distress in the heat. Although Bulldogs and Pugs typically do not require much exercise compared to the more active breeds such as Herding Dogs like Australian Shepherds, or Working Dogs like Huskies or a Non-Sporting breed like American Eskimo Dogs, they do need exercise and you’d want to make sure they did so in a cool environment or time of day/evening.
