When taking on a lap dog many people get very concerned about what health problems they might encounter as there are many rumours about certain breeds having certain conditions. These problems are not just akin to small dogs but ALL dogs. Here however we are going to concentrate on small dogs.
What health problems do small dogs have? Some of the most common health problems for small dogs are :-
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Reverse sneezing
- Whelping complications
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Intervertebral disk disease
- Legg Calve Perthes Disease
- Dental disease
- Hypoglycemia
- Pancreatitis
- Ectropion
- Homeostasis Imbalance
What Health Problems do Small Dogs Have?
This is a general guide for the main health conditions that affect many small dog breeds. Many small dogs have little or no general health problems, but a few do and some of those are listed below.
Some of these conditions are breed specific or more common within certain breeds. If you are concerned about a specific condition with regard to your own dog check the history of the breed and its common problems.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome.
This refers to the various upper airway problems found in short-nosed, flat-faced dog breeds such as the Pug. The shrunken breathing system of these pups makes it harder for them to breathe. So be careful with strenuous exercise such as running with your dog this can be harmful for a pup like this.
Reverse sneezing
This can be an alarming problem when it occurs. Reverse sneezing however is a mostly harmless condition and will cause minor discomfort to your furry friend. A reverse sneeze isn’t actually a sneeze, but rather a spasm of the soft palate and throat that creates a honking, choking sound.
Whelping complications.
Smaller dogs have narrower pelvic openings and very limited pain tolerance; birthing can be more complicated for the littler breeds. Some of the most affected breeds include Pugs, Toy Poodles, and some Terriers. If you have a lap dog in the house with a litter due, it’s a wise move to consult your vets opinion as they may consider a Cesarean section.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia occurs in all dog breeds but is more common in larger breeds. Of all the small breeds, yet again the Pug suffers from the highest occurrence of hip dysplasia.
In this condition the ball and socket of the hip joint have sometimes not developed properly and can rub or grind instead of sliding smoothly. Generally, this will deteriorate and will need veterinary help.
Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates or slips out of place from its groove in the femur. Several small and toy breed dogs suffer this affliction. A clear sign is if your dog skips or lifts one or both of its rear legs while walking and may have difficulty controlling even a gentle walk. Moving patellas are painful and surgery is normally needed.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
When this condition occurs it is serious and will likely need a vet to even find the condition. It is a spinal problem in which one or more of the cushions that exists between each vertebra comes into contact with the spinal cord resulting in several problems dependant upon how long the condition goes unnoticed. The most commonly seen symptom is stiffness and pain in the neck and back.
If these discs rupture, herniate or otherwise come into contact with the spinal cord they may cause anything from painful irritation to disc compression which is extremely painful and can eventually cause weakness and/or paralysis. Small breed dogs like the Dachshund and Shih Tzu, are often more susceptible to this disease.
Treatment of IVDD can include crate rest, medications, lifestyle changes or surgery. The treatment plan will depend on many factors such as the weight and general health and age of the dog, and the severity of the disease.
Legg Calve Perthes Disease
This disorder is considered a genetic joint disorder. It is highly common in small and toy breeds and is noticed by the deterioration of the hip joint due to lack of blood flow to the bone. This disease causes lameness and the muscles will eventually shrink. It is a painful condition commonly first diagnosed from lameness but is curable if caught early.
Dental Disease
This is an annoying disease in that it can be solved if noticed by observant owners. Smaller, or toy breed dogs have shorter skulls, meaning there’s not much room for the normal amount of teeth dogs have. Having 42 teeth crammed into their little mouths can cause the teeth to become crooked and layer on top of each other, increasing the risk for dental disease. When plaque and tartar develop, it will stay stuck in the extra spaces that larger breeds don’t have. Owners should brush their dogs teeth from puppy age to help avoid plaque related problems.
Hypoglycemia.
A hypoglycemic attack is caused by a sharp drop in blood sugar, which can be brought on by stress, particularly common in puppies of toy breeds typically aged about 6 to 12 weeks. Symptoms include your little furry pal becoming weak or lethargic, or struggling to maintain an even walk, or tremors, especially in the face- these could be signs of a hypoglycemic attack. A sudden drop in blood sugar can even put little dogs into a potentially fatal coma.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, which can appear for several reasons from being overweight, infection, trauma. The results can be fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and mild to severe abdominal pain. Although any dog breed can be affected by pancreatitis, it tends to affect small dogs more commonly.
Ectropion
Ectropion refers to an abnormality which frequently affects short-nosed, flat-faced dog breeds like the French Bulldogs, Cairn Terriers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. It means the eyelids droop down, the inner eyelid rolls outward and the pink tissue below the white of the eye is visible.
Ectropion can be a genetic condition but is also a symptom of other conditions and diseases. The symptoms can be discomfort causing your dog to paw at the eye, creating more irritation, brown tear staining beneath the eye, and a bulbous lower eyelid. Mild cases are often treated with eye drops and ointments, although more severe cases or recurring mild cases can be treated with surgical intervention.
Homeostasis Imbalance
Small breeds frequently find it more difficult regulating a normal body temperature than their bigger cousins. They’re both hot and cold sensitive, falling victim to over-heating and freezing conditions far quicker and unexpectedly than your average dog. Common with breeds such as Chihuahua.
Small Dog Poor Health Prevention
To keep your little companions in peak shape requires you to think about all the ways you can prevent issues from occurring. Every dog should enjoy a life full of health, energy and wellbeing.
Being a pet parent, there are several ways you can keep your dog healthy. The benefits of this are fewer visits to the vet and costly bills to treat potentially preventable problems.
Diet is a constant problem as small breeds are easily overfed and often given inappropriate treats.
Another common assumption is that all small breeds are suited to apartment living and that they don’t need much exercise. This is false, some small breeds are highly energetic and need daily exercise. It’s a good idea to choose the breed that fits with your lifestyle and don’t mistake the dog’s size as an indication of their energy levels.
What are Some of the Healthiest Breeds of Dog?
- Affenpinschers are generally a pretty healthy small dog. Be sure to check for breed specific rescues in your area or reputable breeders. More about Affenpinschers.
- The Australian Terrier is the first native breed to be recognized and shown in Australia. Read more about Australian Terriers.
- Originated in Bologna, Italy. Also known as the anti-depressant dog. Read more about this happy little healthy breed! Bolognese
- With a typical life span of 12-15 years, the Border Terrier is a healthy little dog worth considering. The breed is over a hundred years old, this small healthy dog breed is highly intelligent.
- The Coton de Tulear is a people pleaser and loyal to a fault. A perfect lap dog.
- Bred in Manchester, England the Manchester Terrier is a high spirited, very intelligent, and cunning dog who is eager to learn.
