Like Snoopy, Beagles are playful and extremely loyal. Maybe your Golden Retriever enjoys being in the pool or on the boat as much as you do. Every dog breed has a distinctive set of characteristics, which helps us choose the dog that best fits with our personality and style. Likewise, a unique array of healthcare concerns can be matched with specific breeds such as German Shepards with hip dysplasia, Bulldogs with respiratory problems and obesity in Labrador Retrievers.
Pet healthcare tailored to these specific issues, known as breed-specific care, benefits the animal through a proactive approach to wellness. Weight management helps avoid obesity and the associated health risks. Likewise, early cancer screening for Boxers could lead to living longer.Veterinarians who practice breed-specific healthcare are able to provide their clients with custom healthcare using targeted medical recommendations to help pets live a longer and healthier life. The relationship between pet owner and the veterinary team also benefits when expectations and goals are understood.
“We want you to enjoy as many wonderful and happy years as possible with your pet. The best way to achieve that goal is through proactive care to keep your pet healthy in the first place. It’s easier—and more cost effective—to discuss medical concerns and make healthcare decisions before a pet becomes sick. We have the ability to provide genetic testing, give our clients specific information about their pet, and customize healthcare for every stage of life,” said Dr. Laura Weis, co-owner of Doylestown Veterinary Hospital.
What if I don’t know what breeds make up my mutt?
Genetic testing can help determine the heritage of your mixed breed dog. There are two types of test methods: blood sample and cheek swab. Ask your veterinarian which test would be most beneficial for your pet. Result accuracy is very important when designing care based on the breed of your dog. The tests may be the same, but the company analyzing the sample should have a large and diverse database for greater accuracy. Knowing what your mutt is made of is fun, but having an experienced veterinary staff take those results a step further by offering targeted healthcare recommendations will have a clear impact on the life of your pet.
If you are interested in learning more about your mixed breed dog or would like more information on breed-specific care, call Doylestown Veterinary Hospital at 215-345-6000 to schedule a consultation.
Top 30 dog breeds in America according to AKC 2013 statistics:
1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepard
3. Golden Retriever
4. Beagle
5. Bulldog
6. Yorkshire Terrier
7. Boxer
8. Poodle
9. Rottweiler
10. Dachshund
11. French Bulldog
12. Doberman Pinscher
13. German Shorthaired Pointer
14. Siberian Husky
15. Shih Tzu
16. Great Dane
17. Miniature Schnauzer
18. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
19. Pomeranian
20. Australian Shepard
21. Shetland Sheepdog
22. Chihuahua
23. Boston Terrier
24. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
25. Havanese
26. Mastiff
27. Maltese
28. English Springer Spaniel
29. Cocker Spaniel
30. Brittany Spaniel
