7 Most Popular Dog Breeds and their Health Issues

Siberian huskies are famous because they are beautiful and friendly. They are known for being sled dogs and having very high energy, but here we present some of the most famous huskies ever.

Health Issue: Siberian Huskies seem to be predisposed to a variety of autoimmune disorders. Treatment for these disorders is corticosteroids to inhibit the immune system. 

German Shepherds continue to make it into Pet Care Hospital's 7 most famous dog breeds because of their loyalty, courage, confidence, their ability to learn, and willingness to protect their people is like no other breed. Have a look at the history of our love affairs in German Shepherds:

1.) 1899. Max von Stephanitz, a Prussian cavalry officer considered the father of the modern German Shepherd, finds his dream dog: Horand von Grafrath. “The entire dog was one live wire,” Stephanitz wrote, “with a boundless and irrepressible zest for living.” Stephanitz’s ideas have guided GSD breeders ever since.

2.) 1928. A GSD named Buddy, owned by a blind WWI veteran named Morris Frank, becomes the first Seeing Eye Dog. “Buddy delivered to me the divine gift of freedom,” Frank says.  

3.) 1987. Ch. Altana’s Mystique is born. The female GSD goes on to become the Guinness World Records “Top Show Dog of All Time,” with 275 all-breed Bests in Show and 30 specialty-show wins.

Health Issue: Many large breeds are prone to hip dysplasia. In hip dysplasia, the joint's ball and socket don't fit together properly, which causes pain, arthritis, and problems walking.

These sweet and kind dogs love kids, making them the perfect choice for families with young children. As cute as they are when they're puppies, you won’t have to wait long for them to grow. This breed is naturally inclined to listen to its owner, which makes training a quick and fun experience for both you and your dog.

Health Issue: Any dog can become overweight, but labs are especially prone to it. And just like with people, obesity is linked to health problems in dogs. Labs need vigorous daily exercise. If your lab is constantly begging for more food, try giving her raw carrots, green beans, or apples to snack on.

Despite his gloomy mug, the English Bulldog is one of the most amiable of all breeds. Some English Bulldogs are friendly with strangers, while others are politely reserved. Though not a barking watchdog, his blocky build and odd, rolling, shuffling gait give intruders pause. It takes a tremendous amount of serious teasing or threatening to provoke this sweet-natured breed, but once aroused, he can be a force to reckon with.

Health Issue: Bulldogs can suffer from breathing problems and due to small nostrils, elongated soft palate, and narrow trachea they snore. It is very important to keep Bulldogs cool in summer as they can lead to a life-threatening emergency if it gets overheated or overtired.

Pugs are different. They possess all the qualities of a big dog in a little dog body. They are big enough to not be annoying and small enough for any size house. Perhaps their motto best describes them. Multum in Parvo - "a lot of dog in a small space". Pugs are fun and they are funny. If given an audience, they are sure to entertain. They are playful but not overly demanding. They are natural born show offs. Nothing can make a Pug happier than being the life of the party.

Health Issue: With their squashed faces and bulgy eyes, pugs are at risk for eye problems.

Beagles are conveniently-sized, handsome and easy-to-groom, friendly with people, peaceful with other pets, and with their appealing soulful expression, it's perfectly natural that many people consider them as potentially wonderful pets. Beagles require long frequent walks and a fenced yard where they can stretch their legs off-leash – FENCED because Beagles are explorers and chasers who will follow their nose wherever that fascinating sight or smell takes them.

Health Issue: Epilepsy, a brain disorder that causes seizures, seems to be more common in beagles than in other dog breeds.

As puppies and young adults, Boxers are animated, playful (often cuckoo!) dogs who love to romp and jump. Middle-aged Boxers typically become more deliberate and dignified and make calm, loyal companions for the rest of their (unfortunately not very long) lives.

Health Issue: Boxers are at higher risk for certain types of cancer, including lymphoma and mast cell tumors. So if you have a boxer, be sure to check him regularly for lumps.