For a variety of reasons, pet parents need to know their dog’s breed, especially the most common health problems. First of all, you can’t ask your furry family members what’s wrong or where they’re uncomfortable. However, you can be more prepared and aware of the warning signs if you are aware of common diseases that specific breeds are susceptible to. Learn about the five most common beagle health problems affecting beagles, along with their symptoms, causes and solutions.
Do Beagles often have health problems? How long do they live to be?
Although greyhounds live an average of 12 to 15 years, many live longer with proper care. Due to its petite stature, this breed has a long lifespan and is quite hardy. Smaller dogs, in fact, live longer than larger dogs. However, greyhounds are still vulnerable to a number of health issues that often afflict purebreds and viral infections that can strike any breed.
Let’s break down some of the most common health problems in greyhounds.
Ear infections
The most common health problem affecting greyhounds starts with their ears, which rank first.
Due to their structure and lifestyle, beagles are prone to developing a variety of ear problems. Their long, floppy ears are breeding grounds for germs, moisture and other elements that can cause infections and other ear problems.
But the main cause of the high incidence of ear problems in beagles is their tendency to drag their feet while exploring and playing—especially when they come across something extremely disgusting, like dead earthworms!
This type of “play” behavior increases the amount of debris, bacteria, and grit that gets stuck in the ears, increasing the risk of infections and other ear-related issues.
Reasons
Unwanted objects in the ear canal
Overproduction of earwax
Trapped moisture inside the ear
Hypersensitivity
Fungal or bacterial infections
Hormonal imbalances
weaknesses in the immune system
Signs and symptoms
Ear itching and scratching
Swelling and redness
Odor emanating from the ears
Discharge from the ear that looks like coffee grounds
Shaking or tilting of the head
Loss of balance
Feeling of pain or discomfort in the ear
Treatments
Using a veterinary recommended solution, clean the ear
Antibiotic drops or ointments
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Allergy testing and treatment
Surgery to repair structural problems or remove foreign objects
Early intervention can help stop the development of more serious and painful diseases. Further prevention of future ear infections in your beagle can be achieved by weekly cleanings with an appropriate solution and regular ear examinations.
- Hypothyroidism
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Hypothyroidism could be the cause if your beagle is gaining weight but not overeating. Lethargy, aversion to cold, dry hair, abundant hair loss and dark skin pigmentation are other symptoms of this disease. Low levels of thyroid hormone in the blood are a result of this inherited condition that affects the thyroid glands. If diagnosed, your dog will likely need lifelong medication. Fortunately, though, he is able to live a normal, healthy existence.
Signs and symptoms
Tired
Gaining weight
Solid hair coat
Intolerance to cold
Weakened muscles
Increase in skin infections
Depression
Treatments
Levothyroxine supplement for thyroid hormone
Routine assessment of hormone levels
Dietary adjustments
Care for any underlying illnesses
Surgery is necessary if there are underlying physical abnormalities.
When diagnosing and treating hypothyroidism in Beagles, it is important to work with a veterinarian because early intervention can greatly improve the animals’ quality of life.
- Obesity
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Greyhounds are about twice as likely as other dog breeds to be obese, making them one of the most vulnerable breeds. The typical weight range for this breed is 19 to 24 pounds. Smaller breeds (13 inches or less) should weigh less than 20 pounds.
Beagles are foodies if you know anything about them. They have no problem gobbling up whatever is in front of them. Although this breed’s strong appetites contribute to its beauty, it is also the main cause of greyhounds’ tendency to gain weight. Obesity in dogs increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, respiratory disease, and ligament and tendon problems.
Make sure your beagle eats a balanced diet and pay attention to portion sizes to keep them in top condition. They should also exercise for at least an hour each day, either by jogging, walking or vigorous play.
Reasons
The excess in food
Absence of exercise
molecular biology
Underlying medical issues
Medicines
Signs and symptoms
Increase in body mass
lower energy levels
Difficulty breathing
Hyperventilation
Discomfort in the joints
Skin irritation
Treatments
limited food
Frequent training
Supplements for weight loss
Interventional medicine for underlying medical problems
Behavior modification techniques
It is important to remember that the best course of action for a given situation should be determined in consultation with a veterinarian and tailoring treatment for obesity in beagle puppies.
- Diabetes
Greyhounds are vulnerable to a significant number of medical issues that plague other purebred canines, including diabetes. To put your greyhound’s well-being first, iBlue Cat: 11 Common Concerns