Small dogs usually live longer than larger dogs, but their increased lifespan doesn’t necessarily guarantee good health. In fact, these five conditions and diseases are more likely to occur in smaller dogs.
BRACHYCEPHALIC AIRWAY SYNDROME
Breathing problems can be an issue in small dogs with short noses and muzzles, such as Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Bully Breeds, or Lhasa Apsos. Dogs that have brachycephalic airway syndrome may have difficulty drawing enough air into their lungs through their nostrils and may resort to breathing through their mouths. Dogs that have brachycephalic airway syndrome might breathe heavily while sleeping or exercising or may have difficulty breathing during hot and humid weather.
Surgery may be the best option to correct structural problems in an effort to improve breathing, thus increasing your pets quality of life.
JOINT PROBLEMS
Patellar Luxation. Patellar luxation occurs when your dog’s kneecap becomes dislocated. The problem happens when the kneecap slips out of a groove that holds it in place in the thigh bone. A dislocated kneecap can cause pain, swelling, and lameness. It may even make it impossible for your dog to bend his or her leg. Miniature and teacup breeds are more likely to inherit the genetic defect that causes the problem.
Surgery by a boarded veterinary surgeon may be needed if your dog has patellar luxation.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture. Some small dogs may be more likely to experience a cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The injury occurs when the ligament that stabilizes the knee joint and absorbs shock tears. You may hear a popping sound when your dog walks and notice limping or stiffness if the ligament has torn. Swelling and muscle wasting in the affected limb can also occur. Depending on the severity of the rupture, your dog may recover with a little rest, however, he or she might need surgery to repair the ligament.
A boarded veterinary surgeon would determine which procedure, as there are several available, is best for your pet.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease. Toy poodles, miniature pinschers, and terriers are at increased risk of developing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. The disease occurs when the blood supply to the femur (thigh bone) is interrupted, causing degeneration in the head of the bone. Symptoms include lameness, limping, stiffness or decreased range of motion in the joint as well as difficulty jumping or running. The disease often strikes puppies and is particularly common in young dogs between 4 to 12 months of age.
Hip replacement or surgery to remove the end of the femur by a boarded veterinary surgeon may be recommended.
BIRTHING ISSUES
Everything about small breeds is smaller, including their pelvises. As a result, female dogs can encounter issues during labor and delivery and may require Cesarean sections to safely deliver puppies.
SKIN IRRITATION
Some small breeds are more sensitive to allergens in the air and in foods. Even a small amount of an allergen can trigger rashes and itching when your pet isn’t very big. Flea bite symptoms also tend to be more severe in small and miniature breeds, particularly if your pet is bitten multiple times. Regular use of flea protection and medication, changes in food, and allergy medication prescribed by your pet’s vet may be helpful if your small breed develops skin irritations due to allergies. Houston and the gulf coast region are a hotbed for allergies. Consultation with a boarded veterinary dermatologist may be beneficial to your pets quality of life.
PANCREATITIS
Pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite in any dog but is more common in small and miniature breeds. Intravenous fluids and pain medication can help your pet recover from a bout of pancreatitis, however pancreatitis can be fatal. If you notice any of the above symptoms, your pet should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Regular check-ups are particularly important if you have a small dog, as some symptoms of illnesses, injuries, and conditions can be subtle at first. Pets age 4-6 times faster than people so, the general guideline is to see a veterinarian every 6 months to help ensure that your pet receives prompt treatment if any health problems are detected. Contact your family veterinarian to schedule a visit for your furry friend.
Sources:
Animal Planet: Are Small Dogs More Prone to Joint Issues?
http://www.animalplanet.com/pets/dog-joint-health/
Pet Health Network: Acute Pancreatitis in Dogs, 5/14
https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/acute-pancreatitis-dogs
PetMD: Kneecap Dislocation in Dogs
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_multi_patellar_luxation?page=show
Dogster: No Small Problem: The Ethics of Teacup Dogs, 6/25/14
Dog Living Magazine: Top 5 Health Conditions for Small Dog Breeds