10 Most Common Havanese Health Problems

Let’s discuss Havanese health problems…

Are you considering getting a Havanese pup? These furry little friends are known for their playful personalities, adorable looks, and loyal companionship.

However, as with any breed, Havanese health problems can occur, and it’s important to be aware of them.

In this post, we’ll take a quick look at some common health issues that can affect Havanese dogs.

Havanese Health Problems

The following are some of the most common Havanese health problems and tips for each:

1. Patellar Luxation

A disorder called patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, leading to lameness, pain, and trouble walking in Havanese dogs. 

Patellar luxation can range in severity from mild to severe, with severe cases needing surgery to fix the issue.

Maintaining your Havanese’s healthy weight, giving them regular exercise, and avoiding overexertion is crucial for preventing patellar luxation.

Patellar luxation in Havanese should not be bred in order to prevent the condition from being passed on to the puppies.

2. Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, can make Havanese dogs painful, lame, and arthritic.

Selecting a reliable breeder that checks their breeding dogs for hip dysplasia is essential to preventing the problem.

Hip dysplasia can also be avoided by maintaining a healthy weight in your Havanese and limiting their physical activity.

Havanese hip dysplasia can be treated with medication, weight loss, and surgery.

3. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

In Havanese dogs, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease affects the hip joint, which can result in discomfort, lameness, and trouble walking.

When the blood supply to the femur is cut off, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease develops, which causes the bone tissue to die.

Maintaining a healthy weight, giving your Havanese regular exercise, and limiting overexertion is crucial for preventing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.

Surgery and medication are two available treatments for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease in Havanese.

4. Eye Problems

Several eye conditions, such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and dry eye syndrome are common in Havanese.

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens that can impair vision and is common in Havanese dogs.

A hereditary disorder called progressive retinal atrophy causes the retina to gradually deteriorate, impairing vision.

When the eyes do not produce enough tears, dryness, and discomfort result from dry eyes syndrome.

Surgery, medication, and routine eye exams are among the available treatment options for Havanese with eye issues.

5. Heart Problems

Havanese dogs are prone to congenital heart abnormalities, mitral valve dysfunction, and patent ductus arteriosus, among other heart conditions.

The illness known as mitral valve disease occurs when the heart’s mitral valve fails not close completely, allowing blood to flow backward into the heart.

When a blood vessel between two significant blood vessels in the heart does not adequately seal after birth, it is said to have patent ductus arteriosus.

Congenital heart defects are structural flaws in the heart that emerge while the fetus is still developing.

To prevent heart disease, it is important to keep your Havanese at a healthy weight, provide regular exercise, and schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian.

Additionally, feeding your Havanese a healthy diet and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can help promote heart health.

Treatment options for heart problems in Havanese include medication and surgery.

6. Liver Shunt

Blood bypasses the liver in a condition known as liver shunt, which causes poisons to accumulate in the bloodstream.

A liver shunt can cause seizures, neurological issues, and limited growth in Havanese dogs.

It is crucial to select a reliable breeder who examines their breeding dogs for a hepatic shunt in order to prevent the problem.

Giving your Havanese a nutritious diet and keeping them away from contaminants in the environment can also assist to support liver function.

Learn more about some common foods your Havanese Should avoid.

7. Dental Problems

Periodontal disease and tooth decay are among the dental issues that Havanese dogs are prone to.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and tissues that support the teeth, causing tooth loss and bone damage.

Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is the erosion of the tooth enamel.

It’s crucial to frequently brush your Havanese’s teeth, offers chew toys, and arrange for regular veterinary dental exams in order to prevent dental problems.

A high-quality diet can also aid to support dental health in your Havanese.

8. Ear Infections

Ear infections in Havanese are common, and they can cause discomfort, itching, discharge, and even deafness.

The breed’s floppy ears, which can trap moisture and bacteria, can lead to ear infections.

It is essential to frequently clean your Havanese ears, keep them dry, and keep them away from irritants like cigarette smoke and chemicals in order to prevent ear infections.

Additionally, regular grooming and maintaining the hair around your Havanese ears trimmed can help prevent ear infections.

9. Allergies

Allergies, including allergies to food and the environment, are common in Havanese.

Skin irritation, itching, and stomach issues can all be brought on by food allergies.

Allergies to the environment might itch, irritate, or even create breathing issues.

Medication and allergy testing to pinpoint the allergen are also alternatives for treating allergies in Havanese.

10. Obesity

Havanese are prone to obesity, which can cause a number of medical issues including diabetes, joint issues, and respiratory issues.

Genetics, inactivity, and overeating all contribute to obesity.

It’s critical to offer a balanced diet and frequent exercise to the Havanese in order to prevent obesity.

Learn more about the common causes of death in Havanese dogs.

Common ways to prevent Havanese health problems

Havanese dogs are generally healthy and sturdy with relatively few serious health problems.

However, there are some common health issues that Havanese owners should be aware of and take steps to prevent.

Here are some common ways to prevent Havanese health problems:

1. Regular vet check-ups: Havanese owners should take their dogs to the vet for regular check-ups at least once a year, to catch any potential health issues early on.
2. Proper grooming: Regular grooming is important for Havanese, to keep their long, silky coats in good condition and prevent skin irritations or infections. This includes brushing their hair and teeth and trimming their nails.
3. Proper nutrition: Havanese need a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level, to keep them healthy and prevent obesity, which can lead to joint problems and other health issues.
4. Exercise: Havanese enjoy a moderate amount of exercise, and owners should make sure their dogs get enough physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and prevent joint problems.
5. Dental care: Havanese are prone to dental problems, so owners should take care to brush their dog’s teeth regularly and provide dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth healthy.
6. Eye care: Havanese can develop eye problems, so owners should keep their eyes clean and watch for any signs of infection or irritation.
7. Socialization: Havanese are social animals and require regular interaction with their owners and other dogs to prevent behavior problems and separation anxiety.
8. Vaccinations: Havanese owners should make sure their dogs receive all necessary vaccinations to protect them from common canine diseases.
9. Heart disease prevention: Heart disease is a common problem in dogs, and Havanese are no exception. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent heart disease.
10. Genetic testing: Havanese dogs are a breed with a few genetic health issues, so owners should consider genetic testing to identify potential health problems early on and take preventive measures as needed.

Learn more about the signs of separation anxiety in Havanese dogs.

Conclusion

If you’re considering adding a Havanese to your family, it’s important to be aware of the potential health issues associated with the breed.

While Havanese dogs are generally healthy, they may be prone to certain conditions such as patellar luxation, deafness, and liver shunts.

However, with proper care and attention, these health problems can be managed, and your furry friend can enjoy a happy, healthy life.

Remember to work closely with your vet and provide your Havanese with plenty of love and affection to ensure they stay healthy for years to come.