Greyhounds are generally considered to be a healthy breed. However, like all other breeds, Greyhounds can be more susceptible to specific conditions than others.
Greyhound Health Issues
10 Common Greyhound Health Issues
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.
Are Greyhounds Prone to Health Problems?
Common Health Issues For Greyhounds
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.
1. Bone Cancer
Greyhounds are susceptible to Osteosarcoma and aggressive bone cancer. Symptoms include lameness and muscle wastage. Treatments include amputation and chemotherapy.
2. Progressive retinal atrophy
This 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.
3. Musculoskeletal injuries
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.
4. Inflammatory bowel disease
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.
5. Elevated blood pressure
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.
6. Lyme disease
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.
7. Heart disease
Endocarditis is a disease in dogs that can cause cardiac arrest. Symptoms include coughing up a pink foam, breathing difficulties, and weight gain. Consult your vet if you have any concerns and want to discuss potential treatments.
8. Bloat
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.
9. Periodontal disease
Dental disease is more common in 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 issues with their teeth is important and visiting veterinary practitioners if you have any concerns is advised.
10. Arthritis
Dental disease is more common in 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 issues with their teeth is important and visiting veterinary practitioners if you have any concerns is advised.
Should I Insure My Greyhound?
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.
Tips for choosing the best insurance for Greyhounds
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.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Greyhound?
Greyhounds have a medium lifespan of between 10 and 14 years.
Final Thoughts
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.
