How can I prevent my Samoyed from having health problems?
For example, if both parents of your Samoyed have certificates proving they were tested and cleared of hereditary eye diseases, heart diseases, and hip dysplasia, your Samoyed has less risk of developing those conditions. Other health problems can be prevented, or partially prevented, by the ways you raise your dog.
What kind of cataracts does a Samoyed have?
Many advanced-age Samoyeds will develop age-related cataracts, as do their human companions. Some types of cataracts are inherited, which is why the Samoyed Club of America recommends annual eye examinations for all dogs used for breeding. Symptoms of cataracts are cloudiness in the pupil of the eye,…
What are the most common orthopedic diseases in Samoyeds?
Other orthopedic diseases in Samoyeds include elbow dysplasia (2% rate), panosteitis in young Samoyeds, osteochondritis, and luxating patella (loose knee joints). A variety of heart diseases (subaortic stenosis, pulmonic stenosis, tricuspid valve disease, and septal defects) are a concern in Samoyeds.
Why does my Samoyed have retinal dysplasia?
Retinal dysplasia in Samoyeds also suggests that the dog may be a carrier of a severe syndrome called OSD (OculoSkeletal Dysplasia). Such a dog won’t have OSD himself but can pass it on to his puppies if bred.
What kind of eye problems does a Samoyed have?
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease is a rare disease that causes severe eye and skin problems. Retinal dysplasia can be mild or can lead to blindness. Retinal dysplasia in Samoyeds also suggests that the dog may be a carrierof a severe syndrome called OSD (OculoSkeletal Dysplasia).
What kind of doctor should I take my Samoyed to?
It is important that a veterinary ophthalmologist evaluate puppies for this disorder before they are placed in their homes. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) describes a number of diseases where the retina of the eye is destroyed over time, eventually resulting in blindness. It is seen in 1 – 2 % of the Samoyeds examined, (AVCO, 2015).
What should I do for my Samoyed dog?
Start your Samoyed off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you’re going to spay or neuter, don’t do it too early. You can dramatically increase your dog’s chances of living a long, healthy life by feeding the right food.
Is there glaucoma in the Samoyed Club of America?
Glaucoma has been reported in the Samoyed (Clark, 2014), but has not been seen by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in the over 4,900 dogs undergoing screening exams between 2010 and 2014 (ACVO, 2015).
