Known for their charming personality, friendly demeanor, and flowing hair, the Havan breed is a popular choice among dog lovers. These small, affectionate dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Being aware of these common problems is essential to keeping your Havanese healthy.
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patella
Dislocated patella, or dislocated kneecap, is one of the most common health problems in small breeds like the Havanese. This condition can cause a constant limp, an abnormal gait, or in severe cases, the inability to use the affected leg. Watch for signs like skipping steps, sudden limping, or reluctance to jump or run. Management of patellar dislocation can range from physical therapy and weight control to surgical correction, depending on severity.
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Eye disorder
Havanese is prone to several eye problems, including cataracts, dry eye syndrome, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Signs of potential eye problems include red eyes, heavy watering, clouds in the eyes, difficulty seeing at night, or reluctance to move to unfamiliar areas. Any of these signs warrant a visit to your veterinarian for a thorough eye exam. Early detection is key in managing these conditions and ensuring your pet’s vision is maintained for as long as possible.
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heart murmur
Heart murmurs are caused by turbulent blood flow in the heart and Havanese may be predisposed to this condition. Symptoms may include coughing, fatigue, rapid breathing, or difficulty exercising. If your Havanese shows any of these signs, especially if they are out of character, it’s important to seek veterinary care. Diagnosis is usually made by listening to the heart, and further testing may be needed to determine severity and treatment options.
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Deaf
Havanese is prone to congenital deafness, a condition present from birth. It can be difficult to detect a puppy that is deaf, but signs can include being unresponsive to noise, difficulty waking, barking excessively, or unusual aggression. If you suspect your Havanese may be deaf, a BAER (Brain Auditory Evocation Response) test can confirm the diagnosis. Although deafness cannot be cured, dogs can live full lives with proper training and safety measures.
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allergy
Finally, Havaneses can be susceptible to allergies, both to the environment and to food. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and skin infection for environmental allergies, or vomiting and diarrhea for food allergies. You may also observe your Havanese scratching, biting, or licking her skin excessively. Diet can help identify food allergies, while allergy testing can help diagnose environmental allergies. Appropriate treatment, often involving dietary changes, medications, or environmental adjustments, can often control these symptoms.
In summary, although the Havan breed is generally a healthy breed, owners need to be aware of these common health problems. Regular vet visits, adequate nutrition, and keeping an eye out for any changes in your dog’s behavior can greatly contribute to your Havanese’s overall health. Remember, early detection is often the key to effective management of these conditions, ensuring that your Havanese leads a comfortable and happy life.
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