Know the Signs: 5 Most Common Health Issues in Havanese

Known for their charming personalities, friendly demeanor, and flowing locks, the Havanese breed is a popular choice for dog lovers. These small, affectionate dogs are generally healthy but, like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Awareness of these common issues is essential for ensuring the well-being of your Havanese.

1. Luxating Patella

Luxating patella, or dislocated kneecap, is one of the most common health issues in small breeds like the Havanese. This condition can cause intermittent lameness, an abnormal gait, or in severe cases, an inability to use the affected leg. Watch for signs such as skipping steps, sudden limping, or reluctance to jump or run. Management of luxating patella can range from physical therapy and weight control to surgical correction, depending on the severity.

2. Eye Disorders

Havanese are prone to several eye problems, including cataracts, dry eye syndrome, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Signs of potential eye issues include redness, excessive tearing, cloudiness in the eye, difficulty seeing at night, or reluctance to navigate unfamiliar areas. Any of these signs warrant a visit to your vet for a thorough eye examination. Early detection is key in managing these conditions and ensuring your pet’s vision is preserved as long as possible.

3. Heart Murmurs

Heart murmurs are caused by turbulent blood flow within the heart, and Havanese can be susceptible to this condition. Symptoms may include coughing, fatigue, rapid breathing, or difficulty exercising. If your Havanese shows any of these signs, especially if they are out of character, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care. Diagnosis is usually made by listening to the heart, and further testing may be needed to determine the severity and treatment options.

4. Deafness

Havanese are predisposed to congenital deafness, a condition present from birth. It can be difficult to detect deafness in puppies, but signs can include unresponsiveness to noise, difficulty waking up, excessive barking, or unusual aggression. If you suspect your Havanese may be deaf, a BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test can confirm the diagnosis. Although deafness cannot be cured, dogs can lead full lives with appropriate training and safety measures.

5. Allergies

Finally, Havaneses can be prone to allergies, both environmental and food-related. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and skin infections for environmental allergies, or vomiting and diarrhea for food allergies. You might also observe your Havanese excessively scratching, biting, or licking its skin. An elimination diet can help identify food allergies, while allergy testing can help diagnose environmental allergies. Appropriate treatment, often involving dietary changes, medication, or environmental modifications, can usually control these symptoms.

In conclusion, while the Havanese breed is generally a healthy one, it’s essential for owners to be aware of these common health problems. Regular vet visits, adequate nutrition, and a keen eye for any changes in your dog’s behavior can greatly contribute to the overall health of your Havanese. Remember, early detection is often the key to effectively managing these conditions, ensuring that your Havanese leads a comfortable and happy life.

NEXT UP: Since the pandemic, veterinarian bills have skyrocketed. This website lets you compare prices on all the pet insurance companies at once.