What’s the Most Common Health Problem for Dogs?

by Gun Dog Online Staff • May 5, 2012 • 8 comments

The Banfield Pet Hospital in Portland, Ore., the world’s largest veterinary practice, just released its State of Pet Health report, helping pet owners identify and prevent common health problem in cats (and more importantly) dogs.

Obsesity is the standout problem from pups, but Arthritis has also increased significantly in the past five years, according to the report. Canine arthritis has one up some 38 percent and other dogs have had problems with high blood pressure and diabetes.

All of these, the study suggests, have to do directly is the weight issues. Almost half of dogs with arthritis–the report analyzed data from the 2 million dogs at over 800 hospitals–were obese.

Ear infections are also common in dogs, with 18 percent of mature adults hitting the hospital with the sometimes serious problem. Matching the ear problems in commonality is Nuclear Sclerosis, an aging-related eye condition that is similar to cataracts, which is experienced by almost 20 percent of mature dogs.

These chronic diseases are on the rise but the study also suggests that owners might not be completely aware of how to prevent or spot the problems. Only 36 percent of dog owners said they would take their pet to see a vet to manage such a condition.

What do you think is the most common health problem in gun dogs? How do you ensure your dog stays healthy?

 

In Health & Nutrition • Tagged ,
  • Dr. Duck

    What a wonderful comment Sister Nancy… You obviously have a grudge against veterinarians. Vets are one of the top 3 most trusted professionals every year. Based on your comment, you couldn't have made in veterinary school which is probably why you posted your comment. Real doctors know how to treat more than one species!

  • Pointer Bird Dog Man

    Have mercy on Sister Nancy. Here's hoping she won't need to have a beloved pet need emergency as I have on more than one occasion. All with wonderful results! Poor place for "shock jock" to express something so disrespectful. Feeding our dogs from the table is probably the worst things that owners do. Feeding the proper diet prevents lots of issues. Keeping them up-to-date with shots, heartworm, etc. are the best prevention of things that vets CAN control. The rest…just "happens" as it does with humankind! Overworking an animal, over feeding one, all contribute to problems down the road.

  • Cathy

    Foreign object in the eye seems to be the most reoccurring problem that I have experienced. I have to check their eyes every time they come in from the field.

  • fgm

    Shame on you sister Nancy. for the money vets charge they are not ignorant just over paid. These people are making more money than dentist and some special care doctors. Just took my gordon to the vet came out with a 200 dollar bill for some pain meds and dog food. Special dog food 71 dollars for 27 pounds. Several years ago it was 56 for 35 pounds. Their fees are worst than the cable company.

    • Dr. Duck

      I can personally guarantee that veterinarians do not make more than dentist! Running a veterinary hospital is extremely expensive and your vet probably made $5-10 on that $71 bag of food. It's simple economics, our costs go up..your costs goes up. The majority of vets want to do what is best for the animal period. If I could do this for free, I certainly would because I enjoy it so much but we do have a business to run and employees to pay as well. Not to mention a butt load of taxes, benefits, etc.

  • Thom

    As with humans, I agree that being over-weight probably causes many of the problems we see in our canine companions; that and breeders who are not selective when choosing dogs and bitches to bring on a new litter. As for myself, I have learned the hard way that not having a routine of drying and cleaning ears as well as teeth cleaning can lead to unnecessary vet bills. To minimize giving your hard earned money to the vet in your area, take better care of your hunting dog and spend the money you save an your favorite micro-brew.

  • Vizslagirl717

    I'd like to comment that we are fortunate to have TWO excellent veterinary practices within 15 minutes of our home. Each practice has several vets who are incredibly compentent, kind and compassionate. Both practices have people drive over an hour to get there because of the service and lower cost compared with other vet clinics. There are great vets and lesser vets everywhere, it take searching and being clear on your expectations. Veterinarians are not miracle workers. We must be vigilant to care for our pets and not expect the vet to 'cure' problems that are outside of their control. If we do not follow the vets prescriptions/guidelines our pet cannot get better. One thing that makes me sick is obese animals. It causes diabetes, joint damage and heart disease in our beloved companions. Our responsibility to them is to ensure that they receive everything they need – including adequate exercise for the amount of food we provide.

  • Dr. Duck

    Apparently there are people on this blog that like to steal your screen name and type things that are inappropriate. I did not write the last comment Thom. Anything future post on this blog with the screen name Dr. Duck will not be from the true person…. you people need to get a life.