7 Dog Breeds to Avoid If You Want A Healthy Pet

Bringing a new dog into your home is always an exciting experience. But along with all the fun and joy comes the responsibility of catering to the physical, mental, and healthcare needs of your dogs.

All dogs may acquire certain health problems as they grow old; however, certain breeds are prone to predisposed issues that may be because of their genetic traits.

We have done all the research for you to make it easier for you to avoid breeds that are easy targets of fatal health issues. Read on to learn more about these breeds.

Dog Breeds To Avoid If You Want A Healthy Pet

1. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are great companion toy dogs who always stay cheerful and happy, which allows them to make new friends every day. According to PetMD, these dogs are the most popular in the USA.

Because of their small size, these dogs are prone to different diseases that can affect their ability to function properly. Common health problems include:

Health Problems

1. Brachycephalic issues may lead to difficulty in breathing and oxygen regulation issues. Flat-faced dogs actually struggle in heat; however, their small bodies give them a leeway with heat regulation and vomiting.

2. These pups have bigger eyes, making them prone to various problems like cherry eyes and inflammation.

3. They may acquire an infection known as the “Otis Externa,” which is caused by their narrow ears, making it difficult for them to clean their ears.

2. Shar Pei

• Height: 18-20 inches

• Weight: 45-60 pounds

• Lifespan: 8-12 years

Shar Pei is a unique dog breed with distinctive features that are attractive to dog lovers. These dogs have wrinkles, and were bred by the Chinese to be a dominant feature, but instead is a cause for many health issues in them.

These dogs are commonly prone to:

Health Problems

1. Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip does not move properly, which can cause immense pain and may even lead to arthritis.

2. Bloating in Sher Pei’s is a common symptom that can get worse and may lead to GDV, which can be life-threatening. It is recommended to seek immediate care and treatment from a veterinarian to prevent it from happening.

3. Shar Peis are prone to dangerous and painful eye diseases that may cause irreversible blindness if left untreated.

3. Pugs

Pugs are small, mischievous, and fun-loving toy dog mix breeds that make great companions for humans.

These dogs have a calm temperament, making them a good fit for families with an active lifestyle. They are great with children and love playing and spending time with their owners.

Health Problems

Here’s a list of common health issues these dogs suffer from:

1. Pug dog encephalitis is a common inflammatory condition of the brain that causes seizures and impaired vision in these dogs. They may also become disoriented and behave erratically. You might want to keep them on a leash for security purposes.

2. These puppies are allergic to various things in the environment, food, and fleas. Common allergens include chicken, beef, dust, pollen, etc., which may cause skin irritation.

3. This is a condition in Pugs in which their thyroid gland does not produce hormones, leading to weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.

4. English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are common household pets who have squished faces, stubby tails, and short legs. These are known to be the unhealthiest pups to own as compared to other breeds in the canine world.

Health Problems

If you are faint of heart and can not see your animals in pain, owning this breed is not a good choice for you. Here’s a list of medical issues these dogs can acquire:

1. Exercise is not a desirable activity for these dogs, which may lead to excessive weight gain, and no one would prefer an overweight pup.

2. These dogs have a lot of skin folds, generally. This allows moisture to be trapped in the skin and promotes bacterial growth, which may give rise to infections.

3. This breed is at a high risk of heart diseases that can limit oxygen intake and force the heart to work twice as hard to pump blood throughout the body. These dogs must adhere to proper treatment and must be taken to the vet regularly to ensure optimal health.

5. Dachshund

Dachshunds are adorable little dogs who are known for their long body and short legs, which makes it a joy to see them jumping, walking, and wiggling around the house.

Health Problems

Dachshunds are a beloved breed by humans, but they are susceptible to many diseases that can be threatening for the rest of their lives. Common problems involve:

1. Dachshunds are susceptible to acquiring intervertebral disc disease because of their long spine and short rib cage. This can cause a lot of agony and even paralysis. These pups must have regular checkups from the vet to ensure optimal health.

2. Dachshunds are also susceptible to weight gain, which can give rise to other problems like diabetes and joint problems. WebMD notes that vet visits are recommended along with supplements to ensure their well-being.

3. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder found in these pups. The treatment can cost you some bucks, so you must decide wisely when adopting this breed.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These are small dogs with an affectionate nature who are known for their beautiful and silky coat and expressive, gentle eyes.

These pups are highly sociable and adaptable, at least for half of their lives. They get their name from King Charles II and are always mentioned to be favorites of the royal family.

Health Problems

As these pups grow older, they might get wrinkles and might respond a little less when invited for a fun playtime. This breed is susceptible to various well-being issues, some of them being:

1. These pups can acquire hip dysplasia, which is a result of their genetic traits. In this condition, the hip does not develop properly and can cause arthritis, which can be torturous for them and may leave them aloof.

2. Mitral valve disease is a common problem found in Cavaliers, where the heart valves degenerate, leading to murmurs and even heart failure.

3. Patellar luxation is a condition that can cause knee dislocation, which can cause a lot of pain and mobility issues.

7. Great Dane

Great Danes are one of the tallest breeds of dogs in the canine world, as compared to other dogs. As tall as 32 inches at the shoulder, Danes tower over most other dogs, and when standing on their hind legs, they are taller than most people, as noted by the AKC.

They have lanky bodies, are iconic, and easily recognizable. They may struggle to support their large bodies, causing a lot of well-being issues.

Health Problems

Great Danes are susceptible to the following problems:

1. Hip dysplasia is common in these animals and must be treated before it gets worse. This may also cause arthritis in them.

2. DCM, known as dilated cardiomyopathy, where the pumping chamber enlarges, making the heart use more energy to pump blood.

3. Osteosarcoma, in easy words, this condition is called bone cancer and is quite common in larger breeds.

Conclusion

In our opinion, these are the breeds that you must avoid adopting if you’re a first-time owner, so you can enjoy a fun and fair time with healthy, friendly pets. However, every dog may develop an ailment at any time. You need to be well prepared for such circumstances and find time and love to attend to the needs of your beloved dogs.

So, what are you waiting for? Make the right choice today and enjoy the company and love of your furry friend.