Even if you are the most diligent pet owner, you may experience health issues with your beagle at some point in his life. The most common hereditary diseases affect the beagle's back and hips. Knowing the different diseases and their symptoms will help you and your vet determine the best course of medical treatment for your dog.
-
Hip Dysplasia
-
According to the American Kennel Club, many breeders believe that hip dysplasia does not affect beagles because of their small size; however, beagles can be affected by it just like larger breeds of dogs. Canine hip dysplasia occurs when the hip socket does not form correctly, causing the hips to be displaced out of their normal location. Often you will notice that your beagle will walk with her back legs closer together than normal to help compensate for the dysplasia. Because of the location of the hip in a dog with dysplasia, more than the normal wear and tear can occur. Eventually, the joint breaks down and is unable to repair itself, resulting in constant pain and inflammation.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
-
In general, intervertebral disc disease, or IDD, affects aged beagles. It can occur in any part of the spine, including the neck, the chest or the lower back. The discs affected by IDD will dry out and become brittle on the edges, and the inner parts become dry and crystallized. Since the disc can no longer move like a healthy disc, it will stick out from the vertebrae, causing your beagle pain. In extreme cases, the disc itself ruptures. The severity of IDD can range from minor discomfort to complete paralysis.
Chondrodysplasia
-
Chondrodysplasia is often referred to as a form of dwarfism or a type of dysplasia; however, according to Woodhaven Labs, it is neither. Chondrodysplasia occurs when the front legs of the beagle are shorter than normal and twisted. If your beagle has it, his legs will likely look much like those of a basset hound. The disease is rare and normally affects the legs; however, it can affect the vertebrae of the back as well. Symptoms usually develop when the puppy is three or four weeks old. The disease causes pain and cannot be cured; however, the symptoms can be relieved with medication.
-