Certain dog breeds are more prone to health problems than others, and this should be a consideration when looking for a new family pet. Breeds that are known to suffer from a lot of health issues can have shorter lifespans, higher vet bills, and higher pet insurance premiums.
This article will look at the conditions that Greyhounds are most likely to suffer from.
Greyhounds are generally considered to be a healthy breed. However, like all other breeds, Greyhounds can be more susceptible to specific conditions than others.
Hopefully, your new Greyhound will live a long and healthy life. Understanding the conditions the breed is more likely to suffer from will give you a better chance of spotting symptoms and seeking treatment quickly.
Greyhounds are susceptible to Osteosarcoma and aggressive bone cancer. Symptoms include lameness and muscle wastage. Treatments include amputation and chemotherapy.
Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative disease affecting the eye’s photoreceptor cells. There is no treatment at present for this condition. However, dogs can live long, happy lives by adapting to losing their sight.
Musculoskeletal injuries will affect muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Symptoms include pain and limping as well as stiffness. Injuries like these can be common in racing Greyhounds and ex-racing Greyhounds.
The cause of inflammatory bowel disease in dogs is still unknown and could be put down to allergies, a genetic disorder, bacteria, or parasites. It can cause reduced appetite, weight loss, diarrhoea, and vomiting. There is no cure, but the condition can be managed through the use of medication.
High blood pressure or primary hypertension can result from diabetes, kidney disease, adrenal gland disease, or other conditions. Symptoms include blood in the urine, bleeding from the nose, or eye haemorrhaging. This can be treated through medication.
Lyme disease is a risk for all dogs that are taken on walks through long grass. It is caused by parasites like ticks and causes a loss of appetite, fever, and swollen joints. It can be treated by a course of antibiotics.
Endocarditis is a disease in dogs that can cause cardiac arrest. Symptoms include:
Bloat is a health issue that typically affects deep-chested dogs. It is caused when the dog eats large meals rapidly, and the stomach twists. This results in the stomach then filling with gas and can be lethal.
Symptoms include retching, drooling, and signs of distress. This can be treated but contacting your vet immediately is essential.
Dental disease is more common in pet Greyhounds than in any other dog breed. Regularly brushing and checking your dog’s teeth is essential. While you might not expect your dog to have fresh breath, ensuring they don’t suffer from dental disease with their teeth is important and visiting veterinary practitioners if you have any concerns is advised.
Retired racing dogs can suffer from arthritis. A Greyhound racing dog is much more likely to suffer from arthritis due to its rigorous racing career. Symptoms include:
Supplements to boost joint health and pain medication can be used to treat arthritis in Greyhounds.
You should insure all dogs to avoid high vet bills if something does go wrong. Because the Greyhound breed is typically healthy, insurance premiums shouldn’t be too high.
Always shop around when looking for pet insurance and make sure you check what is covered and whether there will be an excess you have to pay towards any treatment.
Greyhounds have a medium lifespan of between 10 and 14 years.
Whether you plan to buy a Greyhound puppy or are more interested in Greyhound rescue, an understanding of potential health conditions is important.
An adult dog, especially ex-racing dogs, are more likely to suffer from issues and being able to spot the symptoms and early signs of illness or disease can minimise the risk of certain conditions, save your dog from severe pain, and increase the dog’s chances of survival or full recovery.
Greyhound owners typically won’t have to worry about a long list of potential health conditions in comparison with some other dogs, and the average life expectancy can be increased by a healthy diet and regular vet checkups.
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