Study Disproves Myth: Purebred Dogs Are Not More Prone to Health Problems
In a significant breakthrough, researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) have challenged the long-held belief that purebred dogs are inherently more susceptible to health issues compared to their mixed-breed counterparts.
Key Findings of the Research
Published in the journal Frontiers In Veterinary Science, the study indicates that although specific breeds may be susceptible to particular diseases, the overall health diagnosis frequency of purebred and mixed-breed dogs is largely comparable.
The research utilized data collected from over 27,000 dogs involved in the Dog Aging Project (DAP), a nationwide citizen science initiative. Of these dogs, 50.6% were mixed-breeds while 49.4% were purebreds.
Dominant Breeds in the Study
The study identified 25 breeds that constitute approximately 60% of the purebred population in the DAP. The most common breeds include:
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Poodle
- Australian Shepherd
- Dachshund
- Border Collie
- Chihuahua
- Beagle
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Boxer
- Shih Tzu
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Pug
- Havanese
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Great Dane
- Greyhound
- Boston Terrier
- Siberian Husky
- Shetland Sheepdog
- English Springer Spaniel
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Doberman Pinscher
Top Health Issues Identified
The researchers examined 53 unique medical conditions frequently diagnosed in these breeds, ultimately identifying 10 predominant issues:
- Dental calculus (hardened plaque)
- Dog bites
- Extracted teeth
- Giardia (a parasite)
- Osteoarthritis
- Seasonal allergies
- Ear infections
- Heart murmurs
- Fractured teeth
- Cataracts
Interestingly, while these conditions were common to both purebred and mixed-breed dogs, some variations did exist. For instance, heart murmur and cataracts were more frequently reported in purebreds, whereas torn or broken toenails, along with chocolate toxicity, were more prevalent in mixed breeds.
Implications for Dog Owners
The research reveals that the lifetime prevalence of owner-related medical conditions (ORMC) was 22.3% in purebred dogs versus 20.7% in mixed breeds. Notably, the researchers stressed that while this difference is statistically significant, it is only 1.5%.
The findings call for dog owners to reconsider the factors influencing their decision to adopt or purchase a dog. Dr. Kate Creevy, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Dog Aging Project, advises, “People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions, and physical activity that will be available to the dog.”
Strategies for Veterinary Care
Dr. Creevy further emphasizes the importance of proactive health management: “Planning for both preventive veterinary care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent.” She encourages conversations between dog owners and veterinarians to better understand specific medical issues that may be associated with a dog’s breed, size, and sex.
This pioneering study not only reshapes perceptions about purebred dogs but also equips dog owners with essential knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their pets’ health and well-being.
