When it comes to cancer some dog breeds are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Among purebreds, there are certain breeds that have predispositions for specific types of cancer. Here, our Ventura veterinary oncologist shares a few of the breeds with a higher risk of developing cancer.
Dog Breeds & Cancer Risks
When purchasing a new dog, you are probably weighing the various personality traits and health risks associated with various breeds. In particular, purebred dogs are more likely to develop cancer. In order to care for and keep track of your dog's health, it is critical that you are informed about the risks associated with the breed of dog you are considering.
Choosing a Dog Breed
It's important to understand that cancer can affect dogs of all sizes and breeds, even mixed breeds. However, among purebreds, there are certain breeds that are more susceptible to the disease.
Selecting a breed of dog that has a lower cancer risk does not ensure that your pet won't develop cancer at some point in their life. Breeds of dogs that live longer may be more likely to get cancer because the condition has more time to spread. According to estimates, 45% of dogs, especially those over the age of 10, die from cancer as their primary cause of death.
Types of Cancer in Different Dog Breeds
There are many factors to consider when determining a specific dog breed's risk of cancer when compared to another breed.
Purebred dogs have a predisposition for certain cancers, and some dog breeds are more susceptible than others. For instance, mast cell tumors are more prevalent in short-nosed dog breeds like Boston terriers and boxers while bone cancer is more prevalent in large, long-legged dog breeds like Great Danes. Short-haired breeds with fair skin are more likely to have skin cancer diagnosed than other breeds, and cocker spaniels are more likely than other breeds to develop a specific type of ear cancer.
Dog Breeds Most Prone to Cancer
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are beautiful dogs that are revered as family pets, however, they are at a higher risk of developing cancer. Lymphoma and Hemangiosarcoma (cancer of the blood vessels) are the most aggressive forms of cancer commonly seen in this breed. In recent studies, researchers have identified two genes that are related to the development of cancer in golden retrievers, this finding could lead to a method of detecting the genes before cancer has an opportunity to develop.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds have long been a favorite breed among dog owners and trainers. Unfortunately, this breed is predisposed to cancer, with hemangiosarcoma (blood vessel cancer) being the most common form.
Beagle
Beagles are adorable, cuddly, and intelligent hunting dogs. This breed is more prone to bladder cancer and recurring urinary tract infections. This risk is increased if dogs are frequently exposed to lawn chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are confident, calm dogs who make excellent family pets. Unfortunately, they have a short life expectancy and are more likely to develop cancers such as mast cell tumors and malignant histiocytosis (histiocytic sarcomas).
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are known for their strength and guardian skills. They are playful with their family and with strangers, they assume a protective demeanor. However, when it comes to cancer they have a higher than average risk of developing a number of different cancers including soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcoma (bone cancer), lymphoma, mast cell tumors, transitional cell carcinomas (bladder cancer) and hemangiosarcomas (cancer of the blood vessels).
Boxer
Boxers make wonderful family pets because they are devoted and affectionate. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors, slow-growing cancer most frequently found on the skin, are frequently diagnosed in this breed.
Great Dane
Great Danes are renowned for their graceful appearance, keen sense of smell, and gentle demeanor, making them excellent family pets. With a lifespan of 7 to 10 years, this breed of dog is prone to a number of illnesses, such as cancer, osteosarcoma, cardiomyopathy, and gastric torsion.
Choosing Your Pet Companion
Whichever breed of dog you choose, it will have a range of traits and potential risks for a range of ailments and diseases, including cancer. It is crucial that you take the time to learn about your dog's genetic background and find ways to reduce the health risks for your pet if the breed you select has a higher-than-average risk of cancer. Regular veterinary visits and health monitoring for your dog will enable you to spot cancer in its earliest stages and explore treatment options.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Contact Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group (VMSG) for more information about advanced cancer care for your pet.
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