Every dog or cat breed has their own unique charm, physical traits, and personality—and a spectrum of genetic health considerations specific to their breed. Understanding these breed-related health problems is crucial for informed decision-making when you select your pet so you can understand their breed-specific health issues that may require management. Our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team explores some of the common health concerns associated with different breeds of dogs and cats.

Predisposed health conditions in dog breeds

Dogs of all shapes and sizes are subject to disease, but some purebred dogs are predisposed to breed-specific health concerns. Here are some breeds and their inherited conditions:

  • Golden retrievers — Known for their friendly demeanor, golden retrievers are often prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and certain heart conditions, such as subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS). Retrievers are also high-risk for lymphoma (i.e., cancer of the lymphatic system) and hemangiosarcoma, an invasive cancer affecting the lining of blood vessels.
  • German shepherd dogs — This intelligent and high-energy breed is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy (i.e., a progressive spinal cord disease), and digestive disorders, including exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). They may also inherit hemophilia and epilepsy.
  • Bulldogs — Because of their distinctive brachycephalic (i.e., short-nosed) facial structure, bulldogs are prone to respiratory issues, particularly brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). BOAS can lead to breathing difficulties and heat and exercise intolerance. Skin problems, joint issues, and eye conditions, such as cherry eye and entropion, are also common in this breed.
  • Labrador retrievers — Labs are an easygoing breed, but their genetics sometimes predispose them to obesity and associated health issues, such as joint problems and diabetes. They are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and certain eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.
  • French bulldogs — Frenchies are beloved for their bat-like ears and affectionate nature, but like regular bulldogs they are susceptible to BOAS. They also are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, and allergies. 
  • Boxers — Boxers are vibrant, social dogs who are prone to boxer cardiomyopathy, a condition distinct to their breed that can lead to arrhythmias and severe heart conditions. Hip dysplasia and aortic stenosis (i.e., a narrowing of the aortic valve) are also common in this breed. 
  • Pembroke Welsh corgis — These corgis, who are famous for their adorable fuzzy hind ends, can develop Von Willebrand’s disease, a blood-clotting disorder similar to hemophilia in humans. They are also prone to degenerative myelopathy (i.e., a spinal cord disorder) and hip dysplasia.  

Cat breeds with inherited health problems

Cats, like dogs, have been overbred to produce specific desirable traits. Unfortunately, with these traits come genetic conditions in certain breeds, including: 

  • Persians — Persians may have beautiful, long, luxurious coats, but they are susceptible to polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which can lead to kidney failure. They also have distinctive flat faces, which commonly causes them to suffer from dental issues and respiratory problems.
  • Siamese — Siamese cats are admired for their unusual vocalization and sleek appearance, but they are predisposed to certain respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchial disease. They may also suffer from dental issues, obesity, and heart conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
  • Maine coons — These gentle giants also are susceptible to HCM. They may also develop hip dysplasia and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disorder that affects muscle strength and coordination.
  • Bengals — Playful, high-energy Bengals are prized for their exotic appearance. Like Maine coons, they are prone to the hereditary heart disease HCM. They also are susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), an untreatable eye disease that causes blindness. 

When you choose a purebred pet with breed-specific health problems, you must be aware of potential problems and be prepared to consult with your veterinary team, who can help mitigate your pet’s risks.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and genetic testing can all contribute to your pet’s good health, regardless of their breed. Contact our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team—we can help ensure your special pet receives the best possible care.