It is a fact that dogs were the first animals to be domesticated and included in people’s lives many years ago. It is known that today’s dogs, whose ancestors were wolves, have increased their breed diversity and genetically evolved according to the different needs of humans.

Genetic disorders are conditions that occur as a result of anomalies in genes and chromosomes. Our canine friends are also prone to some genetic diseases, just like us. Well, then, let’s take a look at the specific genetic diseases of some dog breeds.

1-Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever breeds emerged in Scotland in the 19th century and were used as aids in hunting activities at that time.

The diseases that these friends of ours are prone to are:

Hip dysplasia (Hip Dislocation): It is a characteristic disorder manifested by disorders between the hip joint, muscles and skeleton.

Tumoral formations: Many tumoral formations can be seen in Golden breeds, but the most common tumors include nasal tumors and fibromas.

In addition, Goldens are animals that are very prone to skin diseases.

 2-Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a breed of dog named after the Pomerania region in northwestern Poland and northeastern Germany in Central Europe.

This cute friend of ours is also a dog breed with genetic disorders.

When we say Pomeranian, the first disease that comes to our mind is “Alopecia X“. Usually the dog’s hair falls out and the skin in this area turns black. Therefore, it is also called ‘Black Skin Disease’.

 At the same time, epilepsy, eye disorders, and kneecap dislocations are among the genetic disorders that are frequently seen in Pomeranians.

3- Toy Poodle

Toy Poodle: It is a dog breed that does not shed, does not produce odor and is antiallergic. Thanks to these features, they are one of the most suitable dogs to keep in apartment life.

Cushing Syndrome: It is a disorder caused by the production of cortisol hormone above normal.

Adrenal cortex tumors, which occur parallel to Cushing’s Syndrome, are another problem that negatively affects our lovely friend’s quality of life. In addition, epilepsy is one of the common disorders.

4- Pug

It is an ornamental dog breed originating from China. They have a wrinkled face, a flattened nose and a spiral tail.

These cute friends of ours, who have inherited large eyes, are very prone to eye trauma.

Obesity is one of the most common disorders in pugs, which are mostly inactive due to their character.

Respiratory problems should not be ignored due to their flat faces.

5- German Shepherd Dog 

This friend, who is large, athletic and very strong, is also an excellent family and protection dog due to his intelligence.

The most common genetic disorder that we may encounter in German shepherd dogs is hip dysplasia.

Drooping ears can also be seen genetically in some individuals of this breed. This ear structure is an undesirable feature by animal owners.

Some heart problems are also among the problems that can be seen in this friend.

6- Cocker Spaniel

This friend, who attracts attention with his ears, is good-natured, very cute and active, is actually a hunting dog and is one of the dog breeds that can be easily kept at home.

Heart, liver and kidney failures are also among the genetic diseases that can be life-threatening for our lovely friend.

Vitamin A has a very important place in their lives. Skin problems due to deficiency of this vitamin also cause unwanted discomfort.

 7-Chihuahua

It is a very popular dog breed that breaks people’s prejudices against owning a dog.

Some problems with the respiratory tract are observed due to the size of these little friends. Although they can live with this problem throughout their lives without any problems, it can also cause problems that may lead to surgical interventions.

 8- Doberman Pinscher

In addition to being agile, active and highly intelligent, it is a popular breed that appeals to the eyes with its rapid learning capacity, protection instincts and unique bulky appearance.

This charismatic friend of ours may face problems due to his genetically inherited heart problems along with his hyperactivity.

Hip dysplasia, which is also seen in other large breeds, may also be among the problems of these breeds.

Stomach upsets are among the disorders that can reduce living standards due to their mobile nature.

9- Siberian Husky

Although its most distinctive features are its eyes, it is actually a large dog breed that is playful, active, cheerful, moody and stubborn.

Likewise, eye problems are also seen in addition to hip problems similar to other dog breeds.
Hypothyroidism is one of the genetic problems that should not be ignored for this friend of ours.

This blog post has been verified by Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ELİF KENAR.

SOURCES

ERAT, S. (2023), Kedi ve Köpek Hekimliği. Ankara, Türkiye: Ender YARSAN. Son erişim Tarihi 04.09.2023

Goljan EF. Rapid Review Pathology. 5th edt., Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2019, Son erişim tarihi: 02.09.2023

Fletcher CDM. Diagnostic Histopathology of Tumors. 5th edition. Elsevier, Amsterdam, Son erişim tarihi: 02.09.2023 

Kumar V, Abbas AK, Aster JC. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th edt., Elsevier              Saunders, Philadelphia, Son erişim tarihi: 02.09.2023

Tahsinoğlu M, Çöloğlu AS, Erseven G. Dişhekimleri için Genel Patoloji, Altın Matbaacılık, İstanbul, Son erişim tarihi: 02.09.2023