Mary Allen
#7 Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is an inherited disorder in which the femur is not securely attached to the hip joint. Some dogs will show pain and lameness in one or both hind legs, but there may be no symptoms at all in a dog with hip dysplasia.
Arthritis can develop in aging dogs. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, like the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program, perform x-ray techniques for hip dysplasia. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be used for breeding. When you purchase a puppy, have the breeder provide you with proof that they have been tested for hip dysplasia and that the puppy is otherwise healthy.
#8 Brachycephalic Syndrome
This condition occurs in dogs with small heads, narrowed nostrils, or distended soft palate. Your airways are blocked to varying degrees and can range from noisy or labored breathing to airway collapse.
Dogs with the brachycephalic syndrome usually snuffle and snort. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgical options to widen the nostrils or shorten the soft palate.
#9 Allergies
Allergies are a known problem in dogs. There are three main types of allergies: food allergies, which are treated by eliminating certain foods;
Contact allergies, which can result from a reaction to a substance such as bedding, flea powder, dog shampoo, and other chemicals and are treated by not using them;
and inhalant allergies, which arise from airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mold. Medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It's important to know that ear infections are often associated with inhalant allergies.