Introduction
It is heart-wrenching to see our beloved dogs fall ill. Despite our best efforts to keep them healthy, it can be difficult to protect them from diseases. While dogs can develop a range of diseases and conditions, some are hereditary, meaning they are passed down from one generation to the next through genetic mutations. These can make them remarkably weak and even shorten their lifespan potentially.
As a dog owner, it is important to be aware of the various health issues that can affect your furry friend. In this blog, we will explore five major types of dog hereditary diseases and discuss the symptoms, causes, and potential treatment options for each. By understanding these conditions, you can be better prepared to seek the best possible care and help to ensure a long, healthy life for your dog.
It is essential to note that the early detection of these conditions is also possible through a dog DNA test. Such tests can help predict future health issues in dogs, thus improving the chances of an effective treatment from early on.
General Symptoms of Dog Hereditary Diseases
Hereditary diseases may manifest at birth or later in life, and they are caused by genetic mutations. It is important to be aware of these signs and seek veterinary care if you notice any changes in your dog's health or behaviour. Some common symptoms of these conditions include:
- Weight loss or gain,
- Changes in appetite,
- Dry or red eyes,
- Itchiness,
- Wounds that don’t heal,
- Abnormal bleeding,
- Reduced physical activity,
- Lack of enthusiasm.
5 Common Hereditary Diseases in Dogs
- Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when your pet’s insulin and glucose regulation system is disrupted. In healthy dogs, insulin helps to process glucose from food for use as energy, but in diabetes, the body may not produce enough insulin or may be resistant to it. There are three types of diabetes that can affect dogs:
- Insufficient insulin production,
- Insulin resistance, and
- Hormone-based diabetes that can occur after pregnancy in female dogs.
Diabetes can further lead to chronic issues and conditions such as hepatopathy, cataracts, an enlarged liver, urinary tract infections, and seizures.
Symptoms: Increased hunger (in the early stages), listlessness, depression, vomiting, weight loss, and increased urination.
- Hip Dysplasia
Dysplasia is a condition where a body part grows abnormally, either too large or too small, and is not in proportion with the rest of the body. It is a myth that only large dogs can develop dysplasia, as it can occur in dogs of any size.
One type of dysplasia that affects dogs is hip dysplasia, which occurs when the ball and socket joint in the hips do not function properly. This can be caused by genetics, rapid growth, certain types of exercise, and improper weight.
Symptoms: Decreased activity, limited range of motion, difficulty standing or moving, and lameness in the hind legs.
Treatment: Physical activity, a prevention plan, medication, and therapies. In severe cases, surgery or orthopaedic braces may be necessary.
- Allergy Dermatitis
Dogs frequently suffer from allergies, which can manifest as skin or gastrointestinal issues. There are several types of allergies that can affect dogs, including airborne allergies, food allergies, and flea allergies. Canine allergy dermatitis is an inherited condition in which dogs react to certain allergens upon exposure. This can include inhalant and contact allergies, food allergies, and flea allergies.
Symptoms: Itchiness, hives, swelling of the face, red skin, vomiting, itchy ears, and ear infections.
- Cancer
Dogs, like humans, can develop cancer due to various factors such as uncontrolled cell growth and genetic mutations. Cancer can occur in any part of a dog's body. Some common types of cancer in dogs include:
- Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which helps remove waste from tissues, works with the circulatory system, and absorbs nutrients from the small intestine. In lymphoma, tumours develop in white blood cells and can spread quickly to other parts of the body. It is a common type of cancer in dogs.
Symptoms: Enlarged or swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, weight loss, and non-painful lymph nodes.
- Hemangiosarcoma
Hemangiosarcoma is a highly aggressive and deadly type of cancer that arises from cells lining the blood vessels. It is usually asymptomatic until it has progressed significantly, and it often goes undetected until it is advanced.
It’s most commonly diagnosed in middle to older age dogs, and over half of dogs diagnosed with the disease die within six months of starting treatment. The skin, spleen, and heart are the most common sites of hemangiosarcoma in dogs.
Symptoms: May vary depending on the location of the cancer, common signs may include blood loss in the abdomen or around the heart, and pale gums.
- Mast Cell Tumour
Mast cell tumours are a type of cancer that develop from cells called mast cells, which are involved in the body's immune response to allergens. These tumours can grow slowly or aggressively, and they are particularly common in dogs.
Symptoms: Enlarged lymph nodes, skin masses or lesions, and a persistent cough.
- Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease that affects the spine and eventually spreads to the limbs. It is most commonly found in dogs between the age of 4 and 14 years old.
The cause of degenerative myelopathy is unknown, but a genetic mutation in the SOD1 (SOD1A) gene is thought to be a contributing factor. Dogs with two copies of this variant are at higher risk of developing this disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, but exercise and therapies may help slow its progression. Dogs with the disease should be kept clean and comfortable, and may require a padded bed and frequent turning to prevent pressure sores.
Symptoms: Scuffed toenails, difficulty standing or walking, muscle loss, and body incoordination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important for dog owners to be aware of the various hereditary diseases that can affect their pets. By understanding the symptoms and potential treatments for these conditions, you can help ensure the best possible care for your dog. As per the diagnosis, it is essential to work with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog.
We would suggest pet owners to be vigilant about dog breathing heavily, weakness, and body incoordination at all times, this way you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.
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