2 hours ago
3
Illustrative image showing dogs of various breeds. (Image: Getty)
A vet has shared the five dog breeds she would never own herself - one of which suffers "a lot of genetic health problems". Dr Rachel Siu is a veterinarian based in Texas who has worked with a wide variety of exotic pets, dogs and cats. But alongside her practice, she has built up a sizable social media presence, posting as Dr Rachel and sharing tips and insights for pet owners.
In 2022 she shared a video with her more than 260,000 subscribers on YouTube named five types of pooch she wouldn’t want to own herself, including Huskies, Dachshunds, Great Danes, Doodles, and Bulldogs, whilst identifying issues associated with them that prospective owners should be aware of. Soon after, she put out a follow-up video entitled the Top 5 Dog Breeds I Would Not Own As A Vet - Part 2, flagging further types she wouldn't choose to have.
Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
She prefaced the video by stressing that everyone is welcome to their own opinions on individual breeds, and that she had largely based her opinions on medical issues she has observed as a medical professional.
Boxer
Boxers are playful but are prone to a number of health issues, the vet said. (Image: Getty)
The first pick is Boxers, which she says are playful but "come with a lot of genetic health problems".
She says they're prone to: Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC), a chronic inflammatory disease; a progressive and incurable spinal issue called Degenerative myelopathy (DM); and aortic stenosis, a congenital heart defect.
Sadly, they're also prone to a heart disease known as Boxer cardiomyopathy because of how common it is in the breed, she added.
What's more they're prone to certain cancers and are brachycephalic, a term referring to short-headed dogs that suffer various health problems due to the way they’re bred, and therefore experience breathing issues, the vet said.
Shar-Pei
Shar-Peis are known for their distinctive skin folds. (Image: Getty)
Next up is the Sharpei, a breed that originated in southern China and is known for its distinctive thick skin folds.
"Although these dogs are loyal to their owners, they were bred to be guard dogs, and they can be standoffish and even aggressive towards new people - if they're not trained otherwise.
"Because of their loose skin, they often get skin infections and Entropion, where the skin of the eyelid folds in on itself and causes painful ulcers.
"Other eye issues they're prone to are retinal dysplasia and glaucoma", she added. They also have a high chance of developing hypothyroidism, which causes the metabolism to slow, triggering weight gain, lethargy and other issues.
Like boxers, there is also a condition named after the breed. Sharpei Fever, "involves joint swelling, fever, and can even lead to kidney failure", Dr Rachel warns.
St Bernard
St Bernard (Image: Getty)
The third breed on the list is the St Bernard. The vet says their tendency to drool a lot is her main issue. The other reason she wouldn't have one is its sheer size.
Male Saint Bernards can range between 70-75cm in height, and can weigh between 63-81kg (around 140 to 178lbs), according to Hill's Pet Nutrition.
The medical professional said she wouldn't want a dog that could "easily overpower me if things get out of hand", but it's not a problem if they're well trained.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Image: Getty)
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were also included, despite being "incredibly sweet" and great for families.
She says their health risks mean she wouldn't buy one, as they're 20 times more susceptible to mitral valve disease than the average dog.
This condition is a serious heart issue, and the leading cause of death among the breed, affecting almost all of them by a certain age.
She says they're also at high risk of a neurological condition called Syringomyelia, which affects the spine and causes chronic pain.
The vet says she has seen many of them die very young due to health problems.
Pug
Pug (Image: Getty)
Her last pick is pugs, and any other breed that's brachycephalic or has a "smooshed face like a bulldog", for that matter.
Dr Rachel says the condition brings a "lifetime of breathing issues". She says many of them are exercise-intolerant and has seen a lot of them perish from heat stroke in the summer months.
Their "smooshed faces" also make them prone to skin infections, dental disease, and up the likelihood of their eyes popping out.
The animal lover says as a medical professional, she can't support these characteristics continuing to be bred, given the suffering it causes them.
Dr Rachel says, despite factors that may prevent her from buying one of these breeds herself, all dogs deserve love and receive the same care in her practice.
English (US) · 