BREED SPOTLIGHT

Common Health Problems in Dogs

3 min read
Jan 27, 2022

 Whether your family has owned a specific dog breed for generations, or this is your first time, it is important to know that certain dog breeds are prone to specific health conditions.Understanding these is crucial, especially considering potentially expensive dog health problems. The health of dog breeds is important information to have as your dog ages. If you own one of the following breeds, keep an eye out for these illnesses and talk to your vet about preventative pet care.

Bulldogs 

The structure of the bulldog's nose and throat make them extra prone to respiratory issues. While snoring and mild huffing are to be expected, be sure to never let them get overheated. Their body will not be able to keep up with the demands of rigorous exercise, so watch their breathing while playing in the park on a hot summer day. 

Labrador Retriever 

As labs age, and are not exercising as much, they are at risk for obesity and cardiovascular issues. The best way to prevent this is to keep your dog active for as long as possible. Labrador Retrievers are also more genetically prone to eye issues such as cataracts.

German Shepherds 

These loyal pooches are especially prone to hip dysplasia. This is when the hip bone does not quite sit in the socket. This condition generally develops in older dogs, leading to arthritis and pain. If you start to notice that your once-active German Shepherd is having trouble walking, have them screened by your vet.

Boxers 

This breed is more susceptible to developing cancer than many other breeds. They are especially prone to lymphoma and mast cell tumors, so it is important to have them examined by your vet regularly. You can also help in early detection by checking your boxer for lumps on their body.

Cocker Spaniels 

Similar to other breeds with long, floppy ears, cockers are at risk for ear infections. Flip their ears up occasionally and keep the hair around their ears short to allow the ear canals to stay dry. If your cocker spaniel does get an ear infection, your vet will be able to give you ear drops to use at home.


Consider Investing in Dog Insurance  

Looking for more ways to keep your pup happy and healthy? Consider investing in a dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance.1  Our dog insurance policies can provide the coverage and care your furry family member deserves.  Get your free quote today.

Protect your Dog

Enroll in 3 Easy Steps

Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances. 

1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.