Health Problems in Small Dogs
Paul Mandigers on Kassa
On Saturday, October 18, the consumer program Kassa discussed health problems in small dogs.
Dogs are being bred to become increasingly smaller. This is especially seen in breeds such as the Pomeranian, the Chihuahua, and the many crossbreeds of these dogs. In some cases, they are so small they can fit into a teacup — these are called teacup dogs. Breeding these extremely small dogs carries a high risk of health issues. Problems include insufficient skull formation (resulting in an open fontanel), kneecap dislocation (patellar luxation), and dental development disorders. There is also a much higher risk of bone fractures if the dog falls or plays with a larger dog.
In addition, two serious neurological disorders occur in these small dogs: herniation of the cerebellum through the back of the skull (Chiari Malformation) and cavity formation in the spinal cord (Syringomyelia). These conditions can cause severe pain and neurological deficits.
Unaware
Many (future) owners are unaware of these conditions when purchasing such a dog and later face severe health problems and associated veterinary costs.
Research
Associate Professor Paul Mandigers appeared as an expert in the Kassa studio. Mandigers, who works at the Expertise Centre for Veterinary Genetics at our Faculty, has conducted research for many years into Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia in Pomeranians, among others. Recent research by his PhD candidate, Koen Santifort, showed that in Pomeranians weighing less than 2.5 kg, the risk of Syringomyelia increases significantly.
These abnormalities are largely hereditary, and proper selection in breeding can reduce their occurrence. An MRI scan of the head can determine whether a dog has Chiari Malformation or Syringomyelia. Dogs diagnosed with these conditions should be excluded from breeding to ensure that the next generation does not inherit them.
Research on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has shown that if both parent dogs undergo MRI scans and breeding guidelines exclude affected dogs, these conditions can be effectively controlled.
Tips for healthy breeding
It is therefore crucial to breed only from healthy parent dogs. However, most of these small dogs originate from Russia, Belarus, and Eastern Europe, where no health testing is conducted.
For (future) owners who, despite the known health issues, still intend to purchase such a small dog, Paul Mandigers offered the following important advice:
Discuss potential health problems associated with the breed with your veterinarian.
Consider not only the purchase price of a dog but also the costs of care and veterinary treatment.
Do not buy an extremely small dog or a puppy from extremely small parents (< 3 kg).
If you buy a breed known to suffer from Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia, make sure the puppy’s parents have both undergone MRI scans and have been declared free of these conditions.