🐶 Breed-Related Diseases in Dogs – A Must-Read for Every Dog Owner
Written by DrAbdelwahab | Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic – JVC Dubai, UAE
At Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic, we care not just for pets—but for pet parents too. One of the most important things dog owners can do is educate themselves about breed-related diseases. Many beloved breeds are genetically predisposed to specific health conditions. Early awareness can lead to early action—and a better quality of life for your dog.
🩺 1. Breathing Problems in Flat-Faced Breeds
Affected breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus
These brachycephalic breeds are adorable—but prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
Common signs:
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Loud snoring, even while awake
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Shortness of breath after minimal activity
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Overheating easily
🔎 Dr Abdelwahab’s Tip: Avoid walks in high heat and monitor for laboured breathing. At Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic, we can assess severity and recommend solutions, including surgical correction if needed.
🦴 2. Hip Dysplasia in Large Breeds
Affected breeds: German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors
This condition affects the hip joint’s development, leading to pain and arthritis.
Signs to notice:
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Trouble standing or climbing stairs
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Limping or stiffness
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Reduced activity levels
💡 Prevention by Dr Abdelwahab: Keep your dog at a healthy weight, avoid excessive jumping in puppies, and get screening done early at Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic in Dubai.
👁️ 3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Affected breeds: Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Poodles
This genetic eye disease leads to gradual vision loss and blindness.
Watch for:
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Bumping into furniture
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Night blindness
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Large, glowing pupils
👁️ Pro Tip: While PRA has no cure, early diagnosis through genetic testing at Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic – JVC Dubai helps prepare a safer environment for your pet.
❤️ 4. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Affected breeds: Dobermans, Great Danes, Boxers
This heart condition weakens the heart muscles and can lead to heart failure.
Symptoms:
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Exercise intolerance
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Coughing or breathing difficulty
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Collapse or sudden death
🩺 Dr Abdelwahab recommends: Annual heart scans and ECGs, especially after age 3, can be life-saving. Visit Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic for early screening.
🧬 5. Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD)
Affected breeds: Dobermans, Shetland Sheepdogs, Golden Retrievers
This inherited bleeding disorder may go unnoticed until surgery or trauma.
Signs include:
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Prolonged bleeding
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Nosebleeds
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Blood in urine or stool
🧪 At Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic, we perform pre-surgical screening and DNA tests to protect at-risk dogs.
🧠 6. Epilepsy in Popular Family Dogs
Affected breeds: Beagles, Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers
This inherited neurological disorder causes recurrent seizures.
Symptoms:
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Sudden, uncontrolled shaking
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Drooling or unconsciousness
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Confusion post-seizure
🧠 Dr Abdelwahab’s advice: Keep a seizure diary and bring your pet for a full neurological checkup at Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic – JVC Dubai.
✅ Final Word from Dr Abdelwahab
As a veterinarian with over 13 years of experience, I’ve seen how early awareness and proactive care save lives. Your dog’s breed might be loveable, but it may come with hidden health risks. That’s why we at Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic are dedicated to educating pet owners and providing breed-specific care plans.
🐾 “Awareness is the first step to prevention. Let us help your pet live their healthiest life.” – Dr. Abdelwahab
📍 Visit Us or Book a Consultation Today
Pet Planet Veterinary Clinic – JVC, Dubai, UAE
📞 +971 54 267 6038
