What diseases are common in Australian shepherds?

What diseases are common in Australian shepherds?

Australian Shepherds are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Are Australian Shepherds prone to health problems?

Australian Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but they can develop certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, various eye diseases, sensitivity to certain drugs, and epilepsy. Here’s a brief rundown on what you should know. Hip dysplasia is a genetic malformation of the hip socket.

What are the genetic diseases of the Australian shepherd?

The MASCA also has a Code of Ethics, and if you are interested in a mini, you should seek out a breeder who abides by it. Ask your breeder to see her dogs’ test results for genetic health problems that can affect the Australian Shepherd. These include Collie Eye Anomaly, canine hip dysplasia and cataracts.

What is the average life expectancy of an Australian shepherd?

13 – 15 years
Australian Shepherd/Life expectancy

How healthy are Australian Shepherds?

Aussies are generally healthy dogs, and a responsible breeder will test breeding stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts and certain forms of cancer. An Aussie’s ears should be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and avoid a buildup of wax, and his teeth should be brushed regularly.

What are Australian Shepherds allergic to?

So flea, and even tick control is important if there’s any chance of coming across those pests. And remember, Aussies and any dogs can be allergic to fleas, whereby a single flea bite can cause issues over the whole body.

Are Australian Shepherds prone to heart disease?

Cardiomyopathy is rare in Australian Shepherds. It is also important to note that the sudden collapse and death of a dog can be caused by the cancer hemangiosarcoma, a common Aussie health issue. No Aussie should be presumed to have cardiomyopathy unless hemagiosarcoma has been ruled out.

Do Australian Shepherds have problems with their eyes?

Eye Problems Unfortunately, Australian Shepherds can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern.

How long can Australian shepherds be left alone?

Alone Time Being left alone for too long may cause the intelligent, energetic Australian Shepherd to create her own fun—often through destructive behaviors or barking. While an Aussie may be left home alone for four to six hours at a time, crate training may be necessary for the dog’s safety.

What kind of health issues does an Australian Shepherd have?

The most common Australian Shepherd health issues include thyroid disorders and idiopathic epilepsy. They are prone to MDR1 related drug sensitivity and may not take certain forms of medication. The breed is also prone to hip dysplasia and eye conditions such as cataracts, leading to blindness.

Which is the most common eye disease in Australian Shepherds?

Visit ASHGI For more information about Lymphoma including research. Cataracts are the most common eye disease in Australian Shepherds. They can occur for reasons other than heredity (other diseases, injury, or nutritional imbalance) but these other causes are not common and should not be assumed to be the reason.

Can you tell if your Australian Shepherd has hip dysplasia?

This foundation can tell you if there is a family history of hip dysplasia, and how often it occurs. A similar condition, elbow dysplasia, is also sometimes seen in Australian Shepherds. The symptoms of elbow dysplasia are very close to that of the hips; only this form affects the front legs instead of the rear.

What causes epilepsy in an Australian Shepherd Dog?

Although not very common, canine epilepsy can also occur in Australian Shepherds. If and when a seizure does happen, it can be quite serious. Epileptic seizures in dogs can be caused by a variety of triggers, including infections, genetics, toxic exposure, and injury.