Vet alert over traits in dogs that instantly show they’re ‘unhealthy’

Dogs have long been regarded as man’s best friend. Over the years, selective breeding has produced various breeds designed to be particularly adorable or to fulfil specific roles, such as hunting companions or guard dogs. However, according to one veterinarian, certain characteristics that have been bred into dogs can actually render them “unhealthy”.

Dr Ben Simpson-Vernon, a vet, posted a video online highlighting several traits he dislikes seeing in dogs, as they immediately indicate the animal will be susceptible to health issues that can compromise their quality of life and, in some instances, reduce their lifespan.

In his TikTok clip, Ben explained that these “harmful physical traits” have become “completely normalised” in dogs due to breeding practices, but he hopes to see them “go out of fashion” as quickly as possible.

1. Short legs

Certain dog breeds have abbreviated legs because owners find the compact stature “cute”. However, according to Ben, shortened legs actually prevent the dog from running and exercising as efficiently as other canines, meaning they could be susceptible to obesity.

Shortened legs are most commonly observed in breeds such as Dachshunds, Corgis, and Basset Hounds, and this physical characteristic can lead to joint problems, limb deformities, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a condition where spinal discs can bulge or rupture.

Dogs suffering from this health condition frequently require additional assistance in maintaining an optimal weight to minimise spinal pressure, alongside consistent, gentle exercise to preserve joint health.

2. Skin folds

Numerous dog enthusiasts adore pooches with wrinkled skin, including English bulldogs, French bulldogs, and Shar-Peis, but the veterinarian warns that these breeds are genetically susceptible to various health problems simply due to their skin structure.

He explained: “Dogs aren’t meant to be wrinkly. This means chafing and skin fold infections. Dogs also use their facial muscles to communicate with other dogs, so a wrinkly face like this hinders this ability.”

Skin fold dermatitis is a frequent issue in dogs with creased skin, as well as overweight canines and those with flattened noses, according to the PDSA. To avoid this infection, owners of dogs prone to this condition must routinely cleanse and dry between their pet’s skin creases.

3. A short muzzle

Breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, boxers, and shih tzus are all classified as flat-faced dogs, or brachycephalic breeds. This indicates their snout is less than a third the length of their skull, potentially exposing them to numerous respiratory complications.

Dr Ben explained: “Many people are aware that these dogs struggle to breathe, but they can also struggle to sleep without choking on their own soft palate, they can regurgitate food, and they find it hard to regulate their own body temperature, amongst many other problems.”

4. Droopy eyelids

Sagging eyelids are prevalent in breeds such as basset hounds, bloodhounds, and mastiffs. This characteristic has become so accepted that it’s even featured in animated characters, including the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer figure, Droopy.

However, droopy eyelids aren’t an endearing or appealing feature in dogs, as they can cause persistent irritation, redness, and dryness around the eyes. Ben explained that these dogs may be susceptible to uncomfortable eye conditions like conjunctivitis, simply because their eyelids don’t function properly.

Canines with this characteristic frequently require regular eye drops to maintain eye moisture and prevent dryness. In serious cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to rectify the eyelid issue.

5. Merle coloured coat

You may consider the merle coloured coat distinctive, but it brings its own complications. Merle describes the speckled coat pattern found in certain dogs, featuring patches of muted colours like grey against a paler backdrop. This colouring stems from the merle gene and frequently produces blue or mismatched eyes, also called heterochromia.

But there are additional concerns with this coat colour, as the vet suggested it may be associated with heightened risks of blindness and deafness in some dogs.

If you’re considering acquiring a dog, it’s essential that you thoroughly research your chosen breed beforehand to ensure you’re prepared to care for them regardless of any health issues they might develop.