Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Round Veterinary Logo

Harmony Road Animal Hospital

905-728-8282

Open mobile navigation
  • Home
  • New Patient Center
    • What to Expect
    • Payment Options
    • Pet Selector
  • About Us
    • Services
    • Meet our team
  • Contact Us
    • Appointment Request
  • Veterinary Topics
  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Newsletter Library >
  • Keeping Pets Healthy >
  • Small Dog Health Problems

Small Dog Health Problems

  • Created in Newsletter Library, Keeping Pets Healthy
Jack Russell Terrier running through field

5 Health Problems That Affect Small Dogs

Small dogs usually live longer than larger dogs, but their increased lifespan doesn't necessarily guarantee good health. In fact, these five conditions and diseases are more likely to occur in smaller dogs.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Breathing problems can be an issue in small dogs with short noses and muzzles, such as Shih Tzus, Pekingese, or Lhasa Apsos. Dogs that have brachycephalic airway syndrome may have difficulty drawing enough air into their lungs through their nostrils and may resort to breathing through their mouths. Dogs that have brachycephalic airway syndrome might breathe heavily while sleeping or exercising or may have difficulty breathing during hot and humid weather.

Serious breathing problems or airway swelling may occur if your dog is anesthetized or sedated, despite the precautions your pet's veterinarian will take to minimize complications. Although using anesthesia can be risky if your dog has brachycephalic airway syndrome, surgery may be the best option to correct structural problems and improve breathing.

Joint Problems

Common joint problems in small dogs include:

  • Patellar Luxation. Patellar luxation occurs when your dog's kneecap becomes dislocated. The problem happens when the kneecap slips out of a groove that holds it in place in the thigh bone. A dislocated kneecap can cause pain, swelling, and lameness. It may even make it impossible for your dog to bend his or her leg. Miniature and teacup breeds are more likely to inherit the genetic defect that causes the problem. Surgery may be needed if your dog has patellar luxation.
  • Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture. Some small dogs may be more likely to experience a cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The injury occurs when the ligament that stabilizes the knee joint and absorbs shock tears. You may hear a popping sound when your dog walks and notice limping or stiffness if the ligament has torn. Swelling and muscle wasting in the affected limb can also occur. Depending on the severity of the rupture, your dog may recover with a little rest, however, he or she might need surgery to repair the ligament.
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease. Toy poodles, miniature pinschers, and terriers are at increased risk of developing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. The disease occurs when the blood supply to the femur (thigh bone) is interrupted, causing degeneration in the head of the bone. Symptoms include lameness, limping, stiffness or decreased range of motion in the joint as well as difficulty jumping or running. The disease often strikes puppies and is particularly common in young dogs between 4 to 12 months of age. Hip replacement or surgery to remove the end of the femur may be recommended.

Birthing Issues

Everything about small breeds is smaller, including their pelvises. As a result, female dogs can encounter issues during labor and delivery and may require Cesaerean sections to safely deliver puppies.

Skin Irritation

Some small breeds are more sensitive to allergens in the air and in foods. Even a small amount of an allergen can trigger rashes and itching when your pet isn't very big. Flea bite symptoms also tend to be more severe in small and miniature breeds, particularly if your pet is bitten multiple times. Regular use of flea protection and medication, changes in food, and allergy medication prescribed by your pet's vet may be helpful if your small breed develops skin irritations due to allergies.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite in any dog but is more common in small and miniature breeds. Intravenous fluids and pain medication can help your pet recover from a bout of pancreatitis. Your pet's veterinarian may also recommend a low-fat diet to prevent a recurrence of the illness.

Regular check-ups are particularly important if you have a small dog, as some symptoms of illnesses, injuries, and conditions can be subtle at first. Periodic appointments will help ensure that your pet receives prompt treatment if any health problems are detected. Contact us to schedule a visit for your furry friend.

Sources:

Animal Planet: Are Small Dogs More Prone to Joint Issues?

http://www.animalplanet.com/pets/dog-joint-health/

Pet Health Network: Acute Pancreatitis in Dogs, 5/14

https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/acute-pancreatitis-dogs

PetMD: Kneecap Dislocation in Dogs

https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_multi_patellar_luxation?page=show

Dogster: No Small Problem: The Ethics of Teacup Dogs, 6/25/14

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/teacup-dogs-small-dog-breeds-health-ethics-puppies-pictures-photos

Dog Living Magazine: Top 5 Health Conditions for Small Dog Breeds

http://www.doglivingmagazine.com/wellness/top-5-health-conditions-for-small-dog-breeds/

  • Pet Health
    • Chronic Conditions
    • Digestive and Oral Health
    • Diseases and Viruses
    • Pests and Parasites
    • Orthopedics
  • Today's Veterinarian
  • Choosing Your Pet
    • Cats
    • Dogs
    • Finding Your Pet
    • Exotics
      • Birds
      • Amphibians
      • Reptiles
        • Lizards
        • Turtles
    • Small Mammals
      • Ferrets
      • Rabbits
      • Pocket Pets
        • Hedgehogs
        • Chinchillas
        • Guinea Pigs
        • Rats
        • Hamsters
      • Domesticated Animals
        • Prairie Dogs
    • Livestock
      • Poultry
      • Goats
      • Pigs
      • Sheep
      • Cows
      • Donkeys, Horses & Mules
  • Living With Your Pet
    • Bringing Your Pet Home
    • Providing Care
    • Travel
    • Saying Goodbye
    • Children and Pets
  • Newsletter Library
    • Behavior & Training
    • Pet Dangers
    • Keeping Pets Healthy
    • Cats
    • Recognizing Illness
    • Nutrition & Food
    • Seasonal Topics
    • Fleas & Parasites
    • Visiting the Vet
    • Equine
    • Tips for Pet Owners
    • Newsletter Archive
      • Fun with Pets
      • Unbelievable Pets
  • Video Newsroom
    • Health Topics
    • Technology and Science
    • Other Interests

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Featured Services

  • Make An Appointment

    We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule. Schedule an appointment today!

    Schedule Now
  • Online Forms

    Our patient forms are available online so they can be completed in the convenience of your own home or office.

    Learn More
  • Services

    We strive to provide complete care for our patients. Learn more about all the services we provide.

    Learn More

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Office

Monday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-3:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Location

Find us on the map

Testimonials

Feedback from our clients

    No testimonials found. Please add

Featured Articles

Helpful Reading

  • Sugar Gliders

    Thinking of getting a sugar glider? These tiny marsupials are energetic and friendly, making them popular choices as pets. Though they weigh less than a half-pound, they're more closely related to kangaroos than they are flying squirrels. If you think a sugar glider would make an ideal pet for your family, ...

    Read More
  • Prairie Dogs

    Prairie dogs are cute, affable creatures. But before taking one on as a pet, check your local laws. In some states, such as Colorado, it's illegal to keep prairie dogs as pets. Mostly, this is because they may spread monkeypox. If you live in a state that welcomes pet prairie dogs, be sure to buy from ...

    Read More
  • How to Help Your New Cat Feel Welcomed in Your Home

    Adopting a cat or kitten? Here's what you can do to help your cat adjust to its new home. ...

    Read More

Newsletter Sign Up

  • Copyright © 2021 MH Sub I, LLC dba iMatrix.
  • Admin Log In
  • Site Map