Many health problems in dogs are related to the breed. Certain breeds have far more health issues than others. That’s why choosing the right breed and the right breeder is important.

Dog breed

If you choose a purebred dog, it’s important to take into account health problems that commonly occur in that specific breed. In some cases, tests can be carried out before purchase. So make sure you are well informed! Examples of breed-specific health problems include:

• Large breeds such as German Shepherds, Labradors or Bernese Mountain Dogs: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and gastric torsion (bloat).

• Small breeds such as Chihuahuas or Dachshunds: patellar luxation (kneecap problems), dental problems, and back problems.

• Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as Pugs or French Bulldogs: breathing problems (BOAS), overheating, and eye problems.

Some breeds have so many inherited health problems that you should seriously question whether purchasing such a dog is wise. For example, you can visit the website of Dier en Recht for an overview of disorders in purebred dogs.

Age of the dog

From young to old, your dog will need to visit the vet from time to time. With puppies, you’ll of course need to think about all the vaccinations they require, but puppies can also carry parasites such as worms and fleas. In addition, hereditary conditions such as heart defects may occur more frequently in some breeds than in others.

If you bring an adult dog into your home, the animal may already have developed certain health issues or diseases over the course of its life. Naturally, it is important that adult dogs are properly vaccinated as well, especially if they come from abroad. In that case, you should also check for diseases that are rare or not present in your country. Adult dogs may also be overweight or already have (early) joint problems and gum disease. A health check-up is therefore advisable. When adopting a dog from a shelter, you will usually receive information about its health. If you purchase the dog elsewhere, make sure you know its medical history.

If you want to offer an older dog a loving home, that is of course wonderful. However, keep in mind that an older dog may suffer from arthritis, kidney problems, or even cancer. This will affect not only its life expectancy but also the costs you will incur as an owner. Be realistic about this from the start. In addition, your older dog may already be experiencing cognitive decline. That can be challenging.

Checks beforehand

Before taking your new dog home, you should check a number of things.

• Vaccination status: Make sure the dog has received all necessary vaccinations.
• Parasites: Check for fleas, ticks, and worms, and have the dog treated if necessary before bringing it home. This prevents other pets or your environment (sofa, rug, dog bed) from becoming infested.
• Behaviour and appearance: Look for signs of pain, lethargy, or unusual behaviour.
• Genetic testing: For some breeds, it is wise to ask about DNA tests for hereditary conditions.
• Insurance: Can the dog be insured? Not all dogs are eligible for health insurance. Make sure you know what you’re getting into!