If you drive a luxury car, you've probably discovered that maintenance doesn't come cheap. But did you also know that the same principle applies to your pets? It's true.
A study released in 2000 examined the medical records of more than 200,000 dogs in the U.S. and Great Britain. It found that expensive breeds such as Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes are more likely to have at least one illness every year. A similar report by Swedish veterinarians confirms the theory - mixed breed mongrels (i.e., good ole companion dogs) are sturdier and healthier than purebred pedigrees.
26 percent of Boxers are likely to have expensive medical issues. Irish Wolfhounds came in second at 24 percent, followed by Great Danes at 23.9 percent. Mongrels fared the best at only 9 percent.
Why do pedigree dogs have more inherent health problems than other dogs? The answer seems to be overly-aggressive breeding. Doreen Graham, from the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said: "We have known for a long time about health problems caused by intensive breeding programs."
Every breeder is in a hurry to breed the next big dog show champion. In their zeal, some less careful breeders fail to make sure their breeding stock are not too closely related. Dr Freda Scott-Park of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, said: "There are an awful lot of inherited diseases related to genetics. These might be through breeding for shows."
People who buy purebred animals need to be aware that this dynamic exists. Perhaps the best protection can come in the form of pet health insurance. While some pet insurance may not cover congenital issues, others may. Dog buyers are urged to check with their pet health insurance provider before buying a purebred dog.
For a more detailed explanation of pet health insurance and how it works, visit http://www.pet-insurance-info.com.
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