An honest look at inherited conditions and how owners can advocate for their dogs
When we choose a dog, we often focus on their looks, temperament, and how well they’ll fit into our family life. But beneath the surface, each breed carries its own set of inherited health risks. Some are mild and easily managed; others can seriously affect a dog’s quality of life. Understanding these risks doesn’t make us love our chosen breed any less, or necessarily reject that breed going forward; it just makes us better guardians, better advocates, and more responsible owners.
Hybrid vigour vs. purebreds
It’s often said that mixed-breed dogs are automatically healthier. While they may benefit from a wider genetic pool (reducing the risk of two faulty genes pairing up), they are not immune to disease. Hip dysplasia, for instance, is found in both purebreds and mixed breeds. The key lies not in whether a dog is purebred or mixed, but in whether breeders use health testing and responsible pairings.
The hidden price of selective breeding
Dogs have been bred for centuries with specific purposes in mind: guarding, herding, companionship, hunting, or simply aesthetics. This selective breeding has given us the incredible diversity we see today, but it has also concentrated certain genetic weaknesses.
For example:
- Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs) are prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome, a condition that makes breathing difficult and can affect exercise tolerance and even sleep.
- Large breeds such as German Shepherds, Labradors, and Rottweilers face higher risks of hip and elbow dysplasia, painful conditions that can lead to arthritis.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels often suffer from mitral valve disease, a serious heart problem that can shorten their life spans.
- Dachshunds and other long-backed breeds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, which can cause paralysis if untreated.
- Shar Peis are prone to entropion (inward-rolling eyelids), causing discomfort and repeated surgeries.
These are just a handful of examples, and ultimately, every breed has its vulnerabilities.
The South African context
South Africa faces unique challenges. While many breeders here are passionate and responsible, health testing is not yet uniformly applied across breeds. Importing dogs from overseas can bring both genetic advantages and risks, depending on the lines chosen. Added to this is limited access to some of the advanced screening schemes (like the UK’s BVA/KC hip scoring or the Swedish elbow index), which means owners must rely heavily on transparency and trust.
Veterinary specialists in Johannesburg and Cape Town report that orthopaedic issues, brachycephalic airway cases, and inherited eye diseases are among the most frequent breed-linked conditions they see. Awareness is growing, but more still needs to be done.
Why honesty matters
There’s a tendency, especially among breeders and breed enthusiasts, to downplay these risks for fear of deterring potential buyers. However, the truth is that transparency helps dogs. When owners are aware of what to look out for, they can seek early treatment, adjust management, and advocate for healthier breeding practices.
By talking openly about breed-linked conditions, we encourage responsible breeding, informed ownership, and, ultimately, healthier dogs.
Prevalence snapshot
- Up to 70% of bulldogs show clinical signs of airway obstruction before their first birthday (Cambridge BOAS Research Group, 2021).
- Mitral valve disease affects over 90% of Cavalier King Charles spaniels by age 10 (British Veterinary Association, 2018).
- In South Africa, hip dysplasia is reported as one of the most common inherited conditions seen in large-breed dogs by local orthopaedic specialists.
How owners can advocate for their dogs
- Ask the right questions before you buy or adopt
- Has the breeder carried out health testing for known conditions in the breed?
- What’s the average lifespan in their lines?
- Are they breeding for function and welfare, not just appearance?
- Support ethical breeders
Good breeders prioritise health over exaggerated looks. They screen for inherited conditions and are honest about potential risks. Supporting them means rewarding responsible practices. - Get to know your breed’s red flags
Make sure you know the health conditions your particular breed of dog is susceptible to so you can recognise the early signs. For example, recognising subtle breathing difficulty in a Bulldog or early stiffness in a Labrador could make all the difference to their long term quality of life. - Work with your vet
Regular check-ups allow vets to spot issues early. Share your concerns, ask about breed risks, and consider screening tests when appropriate. - Speak up
Breed clubs, kennel clubs, and even lawmakers respond to public pressure. Advocate for changes to breed standards that prioritise health and function. The more voices raised for healthier dogs, the harder it is to ignore them.
Did you know?
Many pedigree breeds have closed studbooks, meaning no new genetic material can be introduced. Over generations, this leads to inbreeding, smaller gene pools, and an increased risk of inherited disease. For example, a 2015 study in the Canine Genetics and Epidemiology journal showed that several popular breeds in the UK had effective population sizes far too small to maintain genetic diversity long-term.
The future
The good news is that change is possible. More breeders are embracing DNA testing, more owners are demanding transparency, and welfare organisations are calling for reform.
As guardians, we can help accelerate this change by asking tough questions, making responsible choices, and always prioritising dogs’ welfare above fashion and looks.
Did you know?
Encouragingly, some countries are beginning to change. The Dutch Kennel Club has introduced restrictions on breeding extremely short-nosed brachycephalic dogs, and in Scandinavia, certain exaggerated conformations are no longer acceptable in the show ring. These changes reflect growing recognition that beauty should never come before welfare.
Final thoughts
Loving a breed means loving it enough to want better for it. By acknowledging the health challenges associated with certain breeds and advocating for change, we can ensure that the dogs we adore today will live longer, happier, and healthier lives tomorrow.
