Are mutts predisposed to certain health conditions?
Yes, mixed-breed dogs can be susceptible to some of the health conditions common to the breeds in their background. A few health conditions are common in dogs, regardless of breed, including:
- Obesity: Mixed-breed dogs who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic health conditions. Regular exercise, measuring your mutt’s food, and limiting their treats to no more than 10 percent of their daily calories can keep your mixed breed dog from gaining too much weight.
- Ear infections: Mutts, especially those with large, floppy ears, are at higher risk of ear infections. Odor, redness, discharge, or pawing at the ears are common signs of ear infections. To reduce the risk of ear infections, dry your mutt’s ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming. Medication can help clear up the infection.
- Hip dysplasia: Sometimes, a deformity prevents the ball and socket in the hip joint from fitting together properly, causing the joint to rub, not glide. The skeletal disease is more common in large-breed dogs, but dogs of all sizes can be diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Treatments for the painful condition include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.
It’s important to remember that just because a dog’s parent breeds might have an increased risk for certain health conditions doesn’t mean they will develop them. Mixed-breed dogs are often more healthy than purebred dogs because of greater genetic diversity. Your veterinarian can help you keep an eye out for possible health problems with regular checkups .