Oct 27 • General discussion
🐕 Which Dog Breeds Are the Healthiest (And Which Struggle the Most)?
Hey everyone!
I've been seeing this question EVERYWHERE on Google lately, so I wanted to address it here.
If you're thinking about getting a new dog—or you already have one and want to understand what health challenges might be coming—this post is for you. 🐶
Let's break down which breeds tend to have the most health issues and which are known for being naturally healthier. 🎉
Spoiler: Your breed doesn't determine your dog's destiny. But it helps to know what to watch for.
❌ BREEDS WITH THE MOST HEALTH ISSUES: 🫣
These breeds are prone to multiple genetic health problems due to selective breeding practices:
1. English Bulldog
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breathing issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin fold infections
- Heart problems
- Overheating risks
✅ Why: Extreme physical traits bred for appearance over function.
2. French Bulldog
- Respiratory issues (collapsed airways)
- Spinal problems
- Eye issues (cherry eye, corneal ulcers)
- Skin allergies
- Heat intolerance
✅ Why: Same flat-face breeding issues as English Bulldogs.
3. German Shepherd
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy (spinal cord disease)
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Allergies and skin issues
Why: Overbreeding and poor breeding practices have weakened the gene pool.
4. Golden Retriever
- Cancer (60% will develop cancer in their lifetime)
- Hip dysplasia
- Heart disease
- Skin allergies
- Ear infections
✅ Why: Unfortunately, one of the highest cancer rates of any breed.
5. Dachshund
- Intervertebral disc disease (back problems)
- Obesity-related issues
- Dental problems
- Epilepsy
✅ Why: Long spine, short legs = major structural stress.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Heart disease (mitral valve disease)
- Syringomyelia (neurological condition)
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
✅ Why: Small gene pool and widespread inbreeding.
7. Pug
- Breathing issues (brachycephalic syndrome)
- Eye injuries (protruding eyes)
- Hip dysplasia
- Obesity
- Skin fold infections
✅ Why: Bred for extreme facial features at the expense of health.
8. Labrador Retriever
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Obesity (they LOVE food!)
- Ear infections
- Arthritis as they age
✅ Why: Very common breed = lots of irresponsible breeding.
💬 Your Turn: 🤔
What breed is your dog? Have you dealt with breed-specific health issues?
Drop a comment and share a pic of your pup! 🐶📸
I want to see all these beautiful faces—no matter the breed!
Next post: Dogs with the least health issues!! Stay tuned! 🐾
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🐕 Which Dog Breeds Are the Healthiest (And Which Struggle the Most)?
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