A large number of us decided last year to welcome new puppies into our homes – dog ownership has increased nearly eight percent according to the Kennel Club figures – and demand for four-legged friends remains high after the lockdown.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dogs as well as numerous crossbreeds to choose from.
There are even scientific guides that psychologist Stanley Coren uses in his book “The Intelligence of Dogs” to classify breeds based on instinct, obedience and adaptability.
Another thing to consider is that some breeds are prone to particular health problems.
A common canine condition is hip dysplasia – when the dog’s hip ball joint does not fit properly or does not develop properly, causing it to rub and drag instead of sliding smoothly.
The condition causes the hip to deteriorate over time, causing pain and drastically reducing a dog’s quality of life.
Here are the 10 Least Genetically Predisposed Dog Breeds, according to the American Kennel Club, along with more information about the condition.
Larger dogs are most likely to develop hip dysplasia, with the German Shepherd being a case in point. You are most likely to have the disease later in life, around the age of seven.
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A combination of tall build, genetic makeup, and weight distribution mean that lovable Labrador Retrievers often develop hip dysplasia. Symptoms of the condition include limping walking, lack of interest in movement, reluctance to climb stairs, and a clicking sound when walking.
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Golden Retrievers share the many positive qualities of the Labrador Retriever, but also a tendency to develop hip problems. Some dogs show signs of the problem when they are only a few months old, while others show no problems until they are much older.
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Rottweilers are another large breed of dog that commonly suffer from hip dysplasia. Another early sign of the condition is if your pet leans in one direction while walking to protect the offending hip.
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