Are Beagles really prone to certain diseases?
This is a question that many Beagle owners ask. And it only makes sense because by knowing those ailments their pet is predisposed to, these health issues can be prevented.
So, what are the common health problems in Beagles? Is there a way for you to prevent these diseases from wreaking havoc to your pet?
All these – and more – are what this post is all about. We will reveal to you the 6 common health issues with Beagles and what you can do to help your pet steer clear of these medical concerns.
Dwarfism in Beagles
Some diseases are acquired and others are inherited. In the case of dwarfism or chondrodystrophy, this is a kind of genetic disorder among Beagles.
When the cartilage develops poorly, this causes the dog to have short legs. But it is not just about the length of the legs. This condition also involves a premature degeneration of the spine’s intervertebral discs.
Unfortunately, symptoms don’t appear right away. It may take a year before symptoms of this disorder appear such as back pain, neck stiffness, abnormal reflexes, impaired urination, and poor muscular coordination.
As time goes by, you may notice your Beagle dragging one or both hind legs while others suffer from paralysis in the limbs.
But despite this medical condition impacting your dog’s performance, you can still expect him to live a normal life. The only downside is that others tend to live the rest of their lives having to manage canine arthritis and painful limbs.
Glaucoma
Another common health problem in Beagles is glaucoma. This is an eye disorder that involves an excessive amount of pressure on the inner portion of the eye. The eye tends to stretch due to the aqueous humor that fails to drain out normally.
When not diagnosed early on and left untreated, this ailment can cause blindness among Beagles. It is important to take note of common symptoms of this disease such as uneven sizes of the pupils, frequent squinting, bulging eye, and a cloudy cornea.
If your pet has glaucoma, don’t lose hope – this issue can be resolved with proper treatment. Special eye medication can help while a more invasive solution is surgery.
Read more:
- How Much Should a Beagle Eat a Day? Feeding Guide You Need to Know
- How Much Exercise Does a Beagle Need? Beagle Activity and Care
Chinese Beagle Syndrome
Have you ever seen a Beagle that walks on tiptoes all the time?
This is one of the symptoms of Chinese Beagle Syndrome or Musladin Lueke Syndrome. Beagles who suffer from this disease have short toes that tend to be upright most of the time. They appear like a dog version of a ballerina on their tippy toes.
If a Beagle is suffering from disease, you can easily tell him apart from the others (aside from his manner of walking). For instance, dogs with CBS appear bulkier and scruffier than normal. Other unique features include slanted eyes, ear folds, and a flat head.
CBS does not have any cure, and it is passed on to offsprings of parents that suffer from this disease. You can observe symptoms by the time your Beagle turns one month old or so, and it can become worse until the first year.
Distichiasis
Some Beagles may suffer from an eye problem called Distichiasis. This refers to eyelashes growing and bending in a way that they irritate the cornea. No wonder dogs with this disease always paw at their eye because of the discomfort.
But here’s the good news – this disorder can be treated. One option is to simply trim the lashes as often as possible to prevent them from getting into the eye. But for a more long-term solution, a surgical procedure may be performed.
Diabetes
Humans are not the only ones who suffer from Diabetes. Even Beagles can develop this ailment. They may either suffer from Type 1 or Type 2, which involves long-term management of this issue through insulin injections.
Type 1 is a hereditary disorder, and it means the body is unable to produce a good amount of insulin needed by the body. On the other hand, Type 2 is an acquired type of Diabetes as a result of a poor diet. This condition depicts a surge of sugar in your pet’s bloodstream.
To help manage Diabetes in Beagles, it is important to put your dog in a special diet suitable for diabetics. Portion control is also important, as well as exercise. Beagles are prone to obesity and weight issues, and it is a risk factor for Diabetes.
Hip Dysplasia
Do you notice your Beagle having some trouble walking?
Perhaps instead of walking, he tends to bunny-hop or run with a different kind of gait. This occurs when your pet has joint arthritis, which impacts the normal function of the hip.
Beagles with hip dysplasia already have this condition since birth. But as time goes by, it becomes worse because of obesity and lack of exercise. The soft tissues located around the hips end up developing in an abnormal manner, which explains the pain and difficulty walking.
While it is a genetic disorder, you can help ease the symptoms and slow down the deterioration of their hips. This can be done with proper nutrition and regular physical activity such as playtime and walking.
Conclusion
Some health problems in Beagles are hereditary while others are acquired.
But all hope is not lost.
You can still have full control of ensuring your pet’s good quality of life even in the presence of a disease. By providing him with a balanced diet, less treats, and ample playtime and exercise, you can help keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come!