Are you wondering if there are any dog breeds without hip dysplasia?
You’ve probably heard about this disease, and you want a dog breed with no major health concerns.
While just about every breed can develop the condition, some breeds are far less likely to do so than others.
Today, we’re going to talk about which dog breeds are not particularly predisposed to hip dysplasia.
Dog breeds without hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket joints don’t develop as they should. As a result, the dog suffers from painful arthritis and lameness.
What’s worse, this condition is hereditary and might be present upon birth, resulting in dogs who are lame for life.
That’s because when hip dysplasia develops, joints rub together painfully instead of moving smoothly.
Unfortunately, hip dysplasia is one of those medical conditions which can affect a lot of breeds.
You might hear that it’s common among large breeds such as Saint Bernards, German Shepherds, and Newfoundland.
However, no dog breed is a 100% hip dysplasia free.
As such, I’ve selected breeds that are extremely unlikely to develop hip dysplasia. But it can happen.
#1 American Foxhound
Created more than 200 years ago, the American Foxhound has changed little since then.
It’s a typical hound, which loves to chase and run and has a distinctive howl that can carry out for miles.
It’s not a dog for busy people because the American Foxhound can run for miles without getting tired and needs a lot of exercises.
As for its health, the American Foxhound is a sturdy breed with little health concerns.
As a whole, they are only susceptible to thrombocytopathy, a condition that leads to excessive/abnormal bleeding from small cuts.
#2 Canaan
The Canaan dog is one of the ancient breeds going back to Hebrew times.
Since it was herding and guarding dog, the Canaan retains a lot of its independence and might be challenging even for experienced dog owners.
The Canaan is a rare dog breed, which hasn’t got any serious health concerns.
However, specialists recommend that you see a health clearance for hip dysplasia when adopting a puppy.
#3 Cesky Terrier
Despite being only 13 inches in height, the Cesky Terrier is a determined hunter.
It’s a cross-breed between Scottish Terrier and Sealyham Terrier. The Cesky Terrier excels at hunting vermin, but it’s mellower than most terrier breeds.
As for its health, the Cesky Terrier is not predisposed to hip dysplasia.
However, the breed suffers from a neurological disorder called Scotty Cramps, which can restrict movement.
#4 Chinese Crested
Created as a companion for people with disabilities, you won’t find a better dog than the Chinese Crested to keep you company during hard times.
It’s a healthy breed which rarely gets hip dysplasia, but you should ask for a health clearance when you adopt.
Thee Chinese Crested is, however, predisposed to Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, so you should keep an eye for limping.
#5 Ibizan Hound
Looking specifically for large dog breeds without hip dysplasia? The Ibizan Hound steals hearts with its elegance, agility, and loyalty.
It’s a dog that loves to run and chase everything that moves.
What’s more, those big ears make the Ibizan Hound an excellent watchdog because nothing gets pass it.
In general, the Ibizan Hound rarely suffers from hip dysplasia.
Deafness, cataracts, and epilepsy are bigger concerns, although most dogs are usually healthy.
#6 Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier has a typical terrier personality combined with recklessness, curiosity, and independence.
It’s a wonderful companion dog for the whole family because these dogs are friendly to everybody, including strangers.
As a whole, the breed doesn’t have many health concerns, but specialists recommend that you get a hip dysplasia clearance.
You also should check for von Willebrand’s disease.
#7 Saluki
The Saluki is another one of the few large dog breeds without hip dysplasia.
This elegant fellow’s origin goes back to antiquity when it hunted gazelles and hares. As such, the breed is sturdy, muscular but elegant.
Your main concern should be keeping your Saluki from chasing cars and hunting goats or foxes because the breed has an incredible prey drive.
They are also sensitive to anesthesia and might develop hypothyroidism.
What are the symptoms of hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects both large and small dogs. Since it’s hereditary, dogs with hip dysplasia should not be breed.
If you’re adopting a puppy with a known predisposition to this disease, you should ask the breeder to provide proof that the parents are hip dysplasia free.
In addition to this, keep an eye for the usual symptoms of hip dysplasia:
- Reluctance to exercise
- Inability to climb stairs
- Joint stiffness and soreness
- Limping
Unfortunately, you can’t do much to prevent hip dysplasia in a puppy when the condition is present at birth.
However, you have several treatment options, including surgery.
The good news is that in mild cases, you can manage the condition with prescribed joint supplements and pain medications.
