5 Common Siberian Husky Health Concerns
Siberian Husky dogs are among the most dignified canines you can find with their striking, athletic build all paired with an ever-friendly personality. These dogs have an unquenchable thirst for adventure as they were originally developed to pull light loads across vast frozen landscapes.
Today, the Siberian Husky is one of the most popular breeds you can find, though it’s not difficult to figure out why. These outgoing dogs are always up for the next challenge as long as it’s with beloved family and friends. With striking blue and brown eyes, it’s hard to resist these energetic, caring canines.
Below, we’ll discuss some of the most common health concerns associated with the Siberian Husky breed. This way, you can be a prepared pooch parent when welcoming one of these adorable four-footers into your life.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
When sourcing your Siberian Husky puppy, it’s important to seek out a reputable breeder with extensive knowledge of your potential pup’s family health history. This is because certain inherited diseases, like progressive retinal atrophy, cannot be avoided if passed down from one generation to the next. However, there are a lot of wonderful huskies in shelters that need a home as well.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA refers to the set of degenerative diseases that affect the photoreceptors in the eye, eventually leading to blindness. This condition can lead to full on blindness within a year, though you may notice your pooch experiencing low night vision as an initial symptom. Unfortunately, there is no cure for progressive retinal atrophy.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is caused by the underproduction of a dog’s thyroid gland which is responsible for regulating your dog’s metabolism. This can make carrying out everyday activities very difficult for your dog.
Some symptoms of hypothyroidism include loss of appetite, general lethargy, slow heart rate, and excessive hair loss. Since this condition affects the entire body, it’s imperative that you see a veterinarian at once if you suspect your dog has this condition.
While hypothyroidism isn’t curable, your veterinarian can prescribe a hormone replacement medication that will help your dog manage his day to day difficulties.
Follicular Dysplasia
This genetic disease leads to excessive hair loss in dogs and is caused by abnormal growth in the canine hair follicle. Follicular dysplasia can lead to patchy, uneven, irritated skin.
While this disease is not treatable, your veterinarian can help you create a treatment plan to help soothe your dog’s associated symptoms and skin irritation.
Cataracts
Unfortunately, Siberian Huskies are subject to a whole host of eye disorders and diseases including cataracts. A cataract is caused when the lens of a dog’s eye clouds, which can eventually lead to blindness.
Cataracts are frequently hereditary though they are more common in diabetic dogs as well. Luckily, cataract surgery can be performed to remove your dog’s cloudy lens and restore sight. Not all dogs are great candidates for this surgery, but even canines with cataracts can still lead loving, fun-fulfilled lives.
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia refers to the improper alignment of the hip joint and socket. This can cause great discomfort in your pooch leading to lameness, difficulty walking, and immobility in some cases.
While this condition is largely genetic, it can be corrected through the use of supplements, medication, stem cell treatments, physical therapy, or surgery under the direction of your veterinarian. You’ll also want to make sure you keep your pooch at a healthy weight since tacked on weight can worsen the symptoms associated with this condition.
Just like any other breed, the Siberian Husky comes with its own set of health concerns that are important to acknowledge as a responsible pup parent. After all, these spirited dogs are so worth our tender love and care. Enjoy welcoming one of these sweet sled dogs into your life.
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