Top 20 Dog Breeds and the Statistical Likelihood of Health Issues

Dogs are cherished companions across the United States, with certain breeds enjoying widespread popularity. However, this popularity can sometimes come at a cost to the dogs' health. This article explores the top 20 dog breeds in the USA, the health issues they commonly face, their impacts on life expectancy, the cost to address these issues, and how prospective owners can ensure they get a healthy puppy.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the USA, known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are excellent family pets and versatile working dogs.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, genetic pre-disposal to obesity, cruciate ligament injuries, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, ear infections, hypothyroidism, bloat, cancer
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000 per hip
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000 per elbow
- Obesity: $200 to $500 annually
- Cruciate Ligament Injuries: $500 to $5,000 per knee
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Ear Infections: $100 to $300 per episode
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): $1,500 to $7,500
- Cancer: $1,500 to $10,000
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years if not managed properly.
Cancer Rates: Labrador Retrievers also have a higher risk of Lymphoma and Lymphosarcoma, which can significantly impact their lifespan.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in a Labrador Retrievers

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have surged in popularity due to their distinctive appearance and charming personality. Their small size and low exercise needs make them appealing to city dwellers.

Health Issues: Brachycephalic syndrome (BOAS), hip dysplasia, skin allergies, Heat Stroke, Eye Issues (Dry Eye, Cherry Eye, Entropion and Corneal Ulcers), Skin Fold Dermatitis, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Cost to Address:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome (BOAS): $1,000 to $3,000
- Hip Dysplasia: $3,500 to $7,000 (total hip replacement); $1,500 to $3,000 (FHO surgery)
- Skin Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Heat Stroke: $1,000 to $3,000
- Eye Issues:
  - Dry Eye: $300 to $600 annually
  - Cherry Eye: $500 to $1,000
  - Entropion: $500 to $1,500 per eye
  - Corneal Ulcers: $200 to $2,000
- Skin Fold Dermatitis: $200 to $1,000 annually; $1,000 to $3,000 for surgery
- Elbow Dysplasia: $1,500 to $4,000 per elbow; $5,000 to $8,000 for total elbow replacement
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 3-5 years.
Cancer Rates: French Bulldogs have a moderate risk of cancers like mast cell tumors.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in a French Bulldog

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are valued for their intelligence and versatility, making them popular as pets, police, and military dogs. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, pancreatic insufficiency, perianal fistulas, epilepsy.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
- Degenerative Myelopathy: $500 to $2,000 annually
- Bloat: $1,500 to $7,500
- Pancreatic Insufficiency: $100 to $300 per month
- Hemangiosarcoma: $1,500 to $10,000
- Perianal Fistulas: $500 to $3,000 annually
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): $100 to $300 per month
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-4 years.
Cancer Rates: German Shepherds are prone to hemangiosarcoma, a type of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in a German Shepherd

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are loved for their friendly and tolerant attitude, making them excellent family pets. They are also popular in search and rescue operations due to their intelligence and trainability.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, heart problems, cancer (
hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, and mast cell tumors), hypothyroidism, heart disease (SAS), Eye Conditions
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
- Cancer: $1,500 to $10,000
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Skin Conditions: $100 to $1,000 annually
- Heart Disease: $500 to $5,000
- Ear Infections: $100 to $300 per episode
- Eye Conditions: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
Impact on Life Expectancy: Cancer significantly affects life expectancy, reducing it by up to 4 years.
Cancer Rates: Golden Retrievers have one of the highest cancer rates among dogs, with up to 60% developing cancer in their lifetime.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in a Golden Retrievers

Bulldog

Bulldogs are iconic for their distinctive, wrinkled appearance and calm demeanor. They are a favorite among city dwellers and a lovable companion.

Health Issues: Brachycephalic Syndrome (BOAS), hip dysplasia, skin infections, skin fold dermatitis, cherry eye, interdigital cysts, heat sensitivity, heart disease, allergies.
Cost to Address:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome (BOAS): $1,000 to $3,000
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
- Skin Fold Dermatitis: $200 to $3,000 annually
- Cherry Eye: $500 to $1,000 per eye
- Interdigital Cysts: $200 to $1,500 annually
- Heat Sensitivity: $1,000 to $3,000 (emergency treatment)
- Heart Disease: $500 to $5,000
- Eye Issues: $300 to $2,000 annually
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Ear Infections: $100 to $300 per episode
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 3-5 years.
Cancer Rates: Bulldogs have a moderate risk of developing cancers like mast cell tumors.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in a Bulldogs

Poodle

Poodles are highly intelligent and hypoallergenic, making them a favorite among dog lovers with allergies. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, addison's disease, hypothyroidism, bloat, sebaceous adenitis, cushing's disease, patellar luxation, dental issues.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Addison’s Disease: $50 to $200 per month
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Bloat: $1,500 to $7,500
- Sebaceous Adenitis: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Cushing’s Disease: $50 to $200 per month
- Patellar Luxation: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Dental Issues: $200 to $2,000 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 1-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Poodles have a moderate risk of developing various cancers.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Poodles

Beagle

Beagles are known for their friendly disposition and excellent sense of smell, making them great hunting and family dogs.

Health Issues: Epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, cherry eye, ear infections, allergies, obesity, dental issues, glaucoma.
Cost to Address:
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): $500 to $4,000
- Cherry Eye: $500 to $1,000 per eye
- Ear Infections: $100 to $300 per episode
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Obesity: $200 to $500 annually
- Dental Issues: $200 to $2,000 annually
- Glaucoma: $50 to $3,000 per eye
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Beagles have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancers.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Beagles

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are powerful and protective dogs, popular for their loyalty and guarding abilities. They are often used in roles requiring strength and intelligence.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, heart problems (SAS), cancer (Osteosarcoma -bone cancer), hypothyroidism, bloat, allergies, panosteitis, entropion, cruiate ligament injuries.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
- Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer): $1,000 to $10,000
- Subaortic Stenosis (SAS): $500 to $5,000
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Bloat: $1,500 to $7,500
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Panosteitis: $200 to $500 annually
- Entropion: $500 to $1,500 per eye
- Cruciate Ligament Injuries: $2,000 to $5,000 per knee
Impact on Life Expectancy: Cancer and other issues can reduce life expectancy by up to 4 years.
Cancer Rates: Rottweilers have a high rate of cancer, particularly bone cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Rottweilers

German Shorthaired Pointer

These energetic and versatile dogs excel in hunting and various canine sports. They are known for their intelligence and stamina.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, cancer, bloat, hypothyroidism, von willebrand's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, allergies, epilepsy, entropion.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
- Bloat: $1,500 to $7,500
- Cancer: $1,500 to $10,000
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Von Willebrand's Disease: $50 to $100 per month
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Entropion: $500 to $1,500 per eye
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 2-4 years.
Cancer Rates: German Shorthaired Pointers have a significant risk of developing cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in German Shorthaired Pointers

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are small but full of personality, making them popular among those who prefer small, energetic dogs. They are often seen as fashionable companions.

Health Issues: Patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental issues, hypoglycemia, portosystemic shunt (pss), legg-calve-perthes disease, eye issues, allergies, luxating patella, bronchitis.
Cost to Address:
- Patellar Luxation: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Tracheal Collapse: $200 to $5,000
- Dental Issues: $200 to $2,000 annually
- Hypoglycemia: $50 to $300 annually
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): $500 to $6,000
- Collapsed Trachea: $200 to $5,000
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: $300 to $3,000
- Eye Issues: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Luxating Patella: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Bronchitis: $200 to $500 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 1-2 years.
Cancer Rates: Yorkshire Terriers have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Yorkshire Terriers

Boxer

Boxers are known for their playful and energetic nature, making them excellent companions for active families. They are also protective and loyal.

Health Issues: Cancer, heart issues, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, allergies, epilepsy, corneal ulcers, boxer colitis.
Cost to Address:
- Cancer: $1,500 to $10,000
- Heart Disease: $500 to $1,000 (diagnostics); $50 to $100 per month (medications)
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Degenerative Myelopathy: $500 to $2,000 annually
- Bloat: $1,500 to $7,500
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Corneal Ulcers: $200 to $3,000
- Boxer Colitis: $1,000 to $3,000 (initial diagnosis); $300 to $1,000 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: Cancer significantly affects life expectancy, reducing it by up to 4 years.
Cancer Rates: Boxers have one of the highest cancer rates among dogs.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Boxers

Dachshund

Dachshunds are famous for their long bodies and short legs, making them charming and unique pets. They are lively and courageous, often exceeding expectations for their size.

Health Issues: Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, obesity, patellar luxation, dental issues, hypothyroidism, cushing's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, diabetes, epilepsy.
Cost to Address:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): $500 to $4,000 per episode
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Patellar Luxation: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Obesity: $200 to $500 annually
- Dental Issues: $200 to $2,000 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Cushing’s Disease: $500 to $1,500 (initial diagnosis); $50 to $200 per month (treatment)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Diabetes: $50 to $150 per month (insulin and supplies); $200 to $500 annually (monitoring)
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Dachshunds have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Dachshund

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgis are beloved for their short stature and lively temperament, often seen as the perfect blend of working dog and family companion. They are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, eye disorders, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, obesity, patellar luxation, intervertebral disc disease.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Degenerative Myelopathy: $500 to $2,000 annually
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): $500 to $4,000 per episode
- Patellar Luxation: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Obesity: $200 to $500 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Corgi

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are known for their endurance and striking looks, often associated with sledding and winter activities. They are energetic and require a lot of exercise.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, corneal dystrophy, hypothyroidism, bloat, zinc deficiency, epilepsy, laryngeal paralysis, autoimmune disorders.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Corneal Dystrophy: $100 to $450 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat): $1,500 to $7,500
- Zinc Deficiency: $240 to $1,100 annually
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Laryngeal Paralysis: $100 to $4,000
- Autoimmune Disorders: $600 to $2,500 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 1-2 years.
Cancer Rates: Siberian Huskies have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Siberian Husky's

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic, excelling in herding and various dog sports. They are known for their agility and trainability.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, epilepsy, collie eye anomaly (CEA), allergies, hypothyroidism, multi-drug resistance (MDR1).
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000 per hip
- Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000 per elbow
- Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually (diagnosis)
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): $100 to $300 annually (monitoring)
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR1): $60 to $150 (genetic testing)
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Australian Shepherds have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Australian Shepherds

Great Dane

Great Danes are gentle giants, known for their impressive size and calm demeanor. They are often described as the “Apollo of dogs” due to their majestic appearance.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, heart problems, bloat, dilated cardiomyopathy, osteosarcoma, hypothyroidism, wobbler syndrome, cherry eye, entropion, histiocytoma, cataracts.
Cost to Address:
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): $1,500 to $7,500
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): $500 to $1,500 annually
- Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer): $1,000 to $10,000
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Wobbler Syndrome: $500 to $7,000
- Cherry Eye: $500 to $1,000 per eye
- Entropion: $500 to $1,500 per eye
- Histiocytoma: $500 to $1,000
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 3-5 years.
Cancer Rates: Great Danes have a high risk of developing various cancers.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Great Danes

Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are known for their loyalty and protective nature, often used in security and law enforcement. They are intelligent and alert, making them excellent watchdogs.

Health Issues: Heart issues, hip dysplasia, von Willebrand's disease, hypothyroidism, wobbler syndrome, gastric dilatation-volvulus (blost), chronic active hepatitis, cervical vertebral instability.
Cost to Address:
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): $500 to $1,500 annually
- Von Willebrand's Disease: $50 to $100 per month
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Wobbler Syndrome: $500 to $7,000
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): $1,500 to $7,500
- Chronic Active Hepatitis: $500 to $2,500 annually
- Cervical Vertebral Instability: $500 to $7,000
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 2-4 years. Cancer Rates: Dobermans have a high risk of developing various cancers.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Doberman Pinschers

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that make excellent companions, especially for those looking for a low-exercise pet. They are known for their distinctive coat and friendly disposition.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, eye disorders, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, patellar luxation, dental issues, hypothyroidism, bladder stones, ear infections, allergies, portosystemic shunt.
Cost to Address:
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): $1,000 to $3,500
- Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
- Patellar Luxation: $300 to $3,000 per knee
- Eye Issues: $300 to $1,500 annually
- Dental Issues: $200 to $2,000 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Bladder Stones: $1,200 to $3,000 annually
- Ear Infections: $100 to $300 per episode
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): $500 to $6,000
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 1-2 years. Cancer Rates: Shih Tzus have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Shih Tzus

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are energetic and intelligent, making them popular for families and active individuals. They are known for their distinctive beard and eyebrows.

Health Issues: Pancreatitis, eye disorders, hip dysplasia, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, urinary stones, allergies, comedone syndrome, mitral valve disease.
Cost to Address:
- Pancreatitis: $500 to $2,500 per episode; $200 to $500 annually for ongoing management
- Hyperlipidemia: $100 to $1,200 annually
- Hypothyroidism: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Diabetes: $50 to $150 per month; $200 to $500 annually
- Urinary Stones: $200 to $2,500
- Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
- Cataracts: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): $200 to $500 annually
- Comedone Syndrome: $100 to $500 annually
- Mitral Valve Disease: $500 to $1,500 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These conditions can reduce life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Cancer Rates: Miniature Schnauzers have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Minature Schnauzers

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are large, protective dogs known for their loyalty and strength. They make excellent guard dogs and require proper training and socialization.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, bloat, cherry eye, demodectic mange, epilepsy, allergies.
Cost to Address: Hip Dysplasia: $500 to $7,000
Elbow Dysplasia: $500 to $8,000
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): $1,500 to $7,500
Heart Disease (Dilated Cardiomyopathy): $500 to $1,500 annually
Entropion: $500 to $1,500 per eye
Cherry Eye: $500 to $1,000 per eye
Demodectic Mange: $200 to $500 annually
Epilepsy: $200 to $1,000 annually
Allergies: $200 to $1,000 annually
Impact on Life Expectancy: These issues can reduce life expectancy by 2-4 years.
Cancer Rates: Cane Corsos have a moderate risk of cancer.

Statistical Likelihood of Individual Health Issues Developing in Cane Corsos

Potential Veterinary Expenses Comparison Across Top 20 Breeds

Distribution of Common Health Issues Across Top 20 Breeds

Minimizing the Risk of Getting a Puppy with Health Issues

Breeds among the top 20 most popular, are at risk of significant health issues. These health problems can not only lead to financial strain due to high veterinary bills but also cause heartache as you watch your beloved pet suffer. Here’s what you can do to minimize the risk of getting a puppy with health issues.

Choosing a Good Breeder

One of the most important steps you can take is to choose a reputable breeder. Good breeders are dedicated to maintaining and improving the health and temperament of the breed. Here’s what to look for in a good breeder:

Health Screenings: Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs for common genetic health issues associated with the breed. For instance, they may perform hip and elbow evaluations, cardiac exams, eye tests, and genetic tests for conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or von Willebrand's disease. Ask the breeder for proof of health screenings and certifications.
Breeding Practices: A good breeder does not breed their dogs too frequently and ensures that the dogs are mature enough before breeding. They also avoid inbreeding, which can increase the risk of genetic disorders.
Environment: The breeder should provide a clean, safe, and enriching environment for their dogs and puppies. Puppies should be well-socialized, meaning they are exposed to different people, environments, and experiences to develop into well-adjusted adults.
Transparency: A reputable breeder is open and honest about the health and temperament of their dogs. They will provide detailed health records, allow you to meet the puppy’s parents, and answer any questions you have.
Contract and Support: Good breeders often have a contract that includes health guarantees and require the puppy to be returned to them if you cannot keep it. They also provide lifelong support and guidance for the care of your dog.
No Puppies "On Demand": Good breeders will not have a puppy available for you when you first contact them. Expect to wait months if not years for a puppy.

Beware of Puppy Mills

Puppy mills are commercial breeding operations that prioritize profit over the health and well-being of the dogs. They often produce puppies in large quantities and in poor conditions. Here’s why you should avoid them:

Lack of Health Screenings: Puppy mills do not typically screen their breeding dogs for genetic health issues. This increases the likelihood that the puppies will inherit serious health problems.
Poor Living Conditions: Dogs in puppy mills often live in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, which can lead to physical and behavioral problems.
High Prices and Marketing: Despite their poor practices, puppy mills often charge high prices for their puppies. They rely on slick marketing tactics to appeal to prospective buyers who may not be aware of their unethical practices.

Financial and Emotional Costs

The financial and emotional toll of dealing with a sick puppy can be substantial. Common health issues in popular breeds, such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and brachycephalic syndrome, can require expensive treatments and surgeries. For example, treating hip dysplasia can cost up to $7,000 per hip, and dealing with chronic conditions like epilepsy can cost hundreds of dollars annually for medications and monitoring.

Steps to Take

Research: Start by researching the breed and understanding common health issues. This will help you ask the right questions and look for specific health screenings.
Visit the Breeder: Visit the breeder’s facility to see the conditions in which the puppies are raised and meet the puppy’s parents.
Ask for Documentation: Request health clearances and certifications for both the puppy and its parents.
Avoid Pet Stores and Online Ads: Puppies from pet stores and online ads are often sourced from puppy mills. Instead, look for breeders through breed clubs, veterinary recommendations, and word-of-mouth from trusted sources.

By taking these steps, you can minimize the risk of getting a puppy with serious health issues. While no breeder can guarantee that a puppy will be completely free of health problems, responsible breeding practices significantly reduce the risk and contribute to the overall health and well-being of the breed. Remember, investing time and effort into finding a good breeder can save you from future financial burdens and emotional distress, ensuring a happier and healthier life for your new companion.

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