Dogs are man's best friend for a reason. They are playful and loving creatures that are a joy to be around. It is no surprise that 38% of companion animals in the United States are dogs. Unfortunately, some dogs breed live in discomfort due to hip and joint issues. In fact, some dog breeds are predisposed to mobility issues, mainly due to their size and genetics. If you are considering getting a pup, it's good to know which breeds are at risk. This article looks at the top dog breeds that are likely to experience hip and joint issues.
BullDog
Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children and other pets. These qualities make them the best family dog. Unfortunately, they are also ranked as the most likely to develop hip dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The good news is that bulldogs are born with healthy joints, and these problems develop later in life. You can avoid these complications by keeping them active and proper nutrition. Pawmedic mobility supplements can help with joint issues.
Pug
Generally, it's the larger dog breeds that are at a higher risk of developing hip and joint issues. However, pugs are an exception. The problem is compounded by the fact that their small frames can't support a lot of weight. Avoid overfeeding the dog since an overweight pug will most likely be afflicted with hip and joint complications. Watch what they eat, and make outdoor playtime a regular thing. Other common health issues that plague pugs are breathing difficulty and eye disease.
Napoleon Mastiff
Weighing as much as 150 pounds, there are not many breeds that are bigger than Napoleon Mastiffs. Unfortunately, their huge size comes with its fair share of health issues. And hip and joint problems are at the top of the list. Carrying all that weight takes its toll on the joints. On the upside, they require medium exercise to stay healthy. If you combine this with a healthy diet, your dog should be okay.
German Shepherd
For a dog of their size, German Shepherds are surprisingly graceful. They are also very playful and athletic. But like all breeds of their stature, they are predisposed to joint and hip problems. Their biggest selling point is the desire to please their master. Unfortunately, this makes it harder to detect when they are ill. Since German Shepherds like chasing things, getting them to be active shouldn't be a problem but play close attention; otherwise, you might not notice their discomfort until it's too late.
Saint Bernard
This species is the definition of a gentle giant. And adults can weigh as much as 180 pounds. Naturally, this instills fear in a stranger, but their friendliness quickly offsets that. Like their giant cousins, the risk of hip and joint issues is quite high. Due to their large size, novice owners may be tempted to feed them like other large breeds. However, they require less food due to their placid nature. You may also have to take them for walks more often to keep them in shape. You can get them to chew toys to help them stay active.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their short legs and long body. Despite being relatively short, they are classified as medium to large breeds. It is because they are bulky. An adult can weigh anywhere from 40 to 80 pounds. Their long body makes them predisposed to spinal injuries. This can be especially a problem if you are not firm on their feeding and they become overweight. The extra weight also puts a strain on other joints and leads to complications. A daily walking schedule is all they need to remain relatively fit.
Newfoundland
Newfoundland is one of the larger breeds. Adult males can weigh as much as 120 pounds and grow to 28 inches tall. However, they are very docile breeds. They are also known to eat quite a lot during the early stages of their lives. As they get older, their metabolism slows down, and so should the feeding. They also need some yard space to run around and stay fit. Newfoundland is expert swimmers, and a pool can provide the exercise they need. About 20 minutes of exercise a day should keep them in good health.
Rottweiler
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Rottweilers are the eighth most popular dog breed in America. But like all other big breeds, Rottweilers are genetically predisposed to health complications. The major issues to watch out for are joint mobility problems. These joint and hip issues can make an otherwise lively breed seem dull. Fortunately, they can be overcome with proper nutrition.
Final Word
Hopefully, you now know what breeds are likely to experience hip and joint issues. If you already own one of these breeds, keep an eye on them for any signs of danger. The easiest way to keep these problems at bay is by maintaining a healthy weight. Don't overfeed your dog and keep them active. You can also put the older dogs on a glucosamine joint health supplement. A daily dose will help them stay active and happier. Check out the available supplements on pawmedica. It is the least you can do for your loving dog.
