Understanding Havanese Health Issues and Concerns

Havanese dogs are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common concern for Havanese owners, as it can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.

Havanese dogs can be prone to eye problems, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. This can affect their vision and overall quality of life.

Regular grooming is essential for Havanese dogs, as they can be prone to skin fold dermatitis and other skin issues. This is especially true for their long, silky coats.

Havanese dogs are also at risk for tracheal collapse, a condition that can cause breathing difficulties. This is often caused by a narrow trachea or other anatomical issues.

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Havanese dogs are prone to heart problems, with cardiomyopathy being the most common issue. This condition makes the heart less efficient at pumping blood into the system.

Symptoms of cardiomyopathy in Havanese dogs include lethargy, weight loss, and a cardiac cough that's especially noticeable after exercise. Fatigue is also a common symptom.

Treatment is available to halt the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms, giving Havanese owners hope for their pets' health.

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Heart problems are a leading cause of death among Havanese dogs in their golden years.

Heart failure is a common issue in Havanese, often caused by weakening of a heart valve. This can lead to blood leaking back around the valve and straining the heart.

A heart murmur is a common symptom of heart valve disease, also known as mitral valve disease. If your dog has a heart murmur, it's essential to have them tested to determine the severity of the disease.

Veterinary dental care can help prevent heart disease in Havanese dogs. Regular dental care can help reduce the risk of heart problems.

Fatty acid supplementation can also help prevent heart disease in Havanese dogs. This can be especially beneficial for dogs at risk of heart problems.

If heart valve disease is diagnosed early, medications can be prescribed to prolong your dog's life for many years. Regular testing is necessary to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

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Havanese dogs are prone to a variety of skin problems, including sebaceous adenitis.

You may notice dry, scaly skin with patches of hair loss along the top of your dog's head, back of the neck, and back, typically between one and five years of age.

Treatment for sebaceous adenitis is generally long term and may involve a combination of approaches to determine what is most effective for your dog.

Fatty acid supplements and special shampoos to remove dead skin and hair are almost always necessary to manage this condition.

The earlier you have your dog's skin checked out, the better the results are likely to be.

Havanese dogs can also be prone to dry skin and coat, hair loss, and susceptibility to other skin diseases due to hypothyroidism, a condition where the body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone.

Signs of hypothyroidism can include weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes.

A blood screening test can be conducted annually to screen for this disease, and treatment is usually simple: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill.

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Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Unfortunately, Havanese dogs are more likely than other breeds to have problems with their teeth.

Tartar build-up on the teeth is the first sign of dental disease, which can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to tooth loss, damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints, and even a shortened life span of one to three years.

Regular dental care is essential to prevent dental disease. Brushing your Havanese's teeth at least twice a week can keep them perfect, and regular cleanings with your veterinarian will help prevent tartar build-up and infection.

Here are some specific dental care tips for your Havanese:

Remember, a healthy smile is just the beginning of a happy and healthy life for your Havanese. By following these dental care tips and scheduling regular cleanings with your veterinarian, you can help prevent dental disease and keep your Havanese's teeth shining for years to come.

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Havanese are prone to several health issues that you should be aware of. Liver problems, such as portosystemic shunt, can affect your Havanese, causing toxins to build up in the bloodstream.

Obesity is another significant health concern, leading to joint problems, metabolic disorders, and heart disease. It's essential to keep your Havanese at a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Common health issues in Havanese include allergies, which can cause skin problems, and infections, such as parvo and rabies, that can be prevented with vaccination.

Your Havanese is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS).

This condition causes some of the blood supply to bypass the liver, depriving it of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly.

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent symptoms of poisoning from occurring.

Symptoms of PSS can include stunted growth and seizures, which require immediate veterinary attention.

To check for PSS, a liver function test is conducted in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time your Havanese undergoes anesthesia.

In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct the condition, but a special diet and medication can also be effective treatments.

Allergies are a common health issue in Havanese dogs, causing itchy skin and discomfort.

Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three, and can get worse every year.

Common areas affected include the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs of allergies in Havanese dogs.

Avoiding allergens in the environment and food is the best way to prevent allergic reactions.

Antihistaminic drugs can help alleviate symptoms, but it's essential to identify and avoid the allergen causing the issue.

Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for allergies in Havanese dogs.

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Havanese dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, just like any other dog.

These infections include parvo, rabies, and distemper, which are all serious conditions that can be prevented with vaccination.

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.

Preventing these infections is crucial to keeping your Havanese dog healthy and happy.

Parasites can be a serious concern for Havanese owners, as they can invade your dog's body inside and out.

Fleas, ticks, and ear mites can infest your Havanese's skin and ears, causing discomfort and pain.

Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into your dog's system through contaminated soil, unclean water, or an infected mosquito bite.

Some parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member, making them a serious concern for everyone in the household.

It's crucial to test for parasites on a regular basis to prevent pain, discomfort, and even death in your Havanese.

Preventive medication may be necessary to keep your dog healthy, and it's essential to follow the recommended treatment plan.

Parasites can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions, so it's essential to stay vigilant and take preventative measures.

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Havanese, causing or worsening joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

It's tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, but this can lead to obesity. You can "love her to death" with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Instead of giving in to those puppy dog eyes, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. She'll feel better, and so will you!

Obesity is a serious disease that requires attention and care. Havanese need a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

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Your Havanese is prone to liver problems, specifically portosystemic shunt (PSS), where some of the blood supply goes around the liver instead of through it.

Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently.

If your Havanese develops symptoms like stunted growth or seizures, you should test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver.

Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Havanese needs help.

Your veterinarian may need to conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time your Havanese undergoes anesthesia.

As a Havanese owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential hip and joint issues that can affect your furry friend. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis.

Stiffness in your Havanese's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage this issue.

Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases of hip and elbow dysplasia.

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Luxating patella is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and lameness. It's common in small and toy breeds.

This condition can affect one or both legs, and it's not typically a serious health issue, but surgery may be recommended in some cases.

You might notice your Havanese suddenly picking up a back leg and skipping or hopping for a few strides, then kicking the leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place.

If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your friend may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication.

Surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap and keep it from popping out of place when symptoms are severe.

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Hip and elbow dysplasia is a serious issue that affects many Havanese dogs, causing their joints to develop improperly and leading to arthritis.

This inherited disease can cause stiffness in your dog's elbows or hips, especially as they mature, resulting in lameness and difficulty getting up from lying down.

You may notice your dog showing signs of lameness in their legs or having trouble getting up from a lying down position, which can be a clear indication of hip and elbow dysplasia.

The sooner you treat the arthritis, the better, to minimize discomfort and pain.

We can identify issues as early as possible by taking X-rays of your dog's bones.

Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases, but it's essential to weigh the risks and benefits with your veterinarian.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your dog's joint health.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Havanese, with the lenses of their eyes becoming more opaque and cloudy.

Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine, but early diagnosis is key to a better prognosis.

Distichiasis is a painful condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye, with Havanese being more likely to develop it than other breeds.

If left untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain, but several treatment options are available and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed.

Havanese are also more likely to have Persistent Pupillary Membrane, a condition where small strands of tissue that were meant to disappear after birth remain attached to the iris.

These tissue bits usually don't hurt or impede vision, but occasionally they can cause problems.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease that causes blindness, with early symptoms like night blindness or dilated pupils beginning around three to five years of age.

A genetic test is available for this condition, but unfortunately, PRA is not curable.

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To keep your Havanese happy and healthy, regular care and maintenance is essential. Brushing her teeth at least twice a week can help prevent dental issues.

Daily brushing and regular trimming is recommended to prevent mats and keep her long coat beautiful. This will also help reduce shedding and prevent hairballs.

Supervising your pet as you would a toddler is crucial, especially in the early stages. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary to keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn't put in her mouth.

Cleaning her ears weekly, even as a puppy, is important to prevent infections. Don't worry, with practice, this will become a routine part of your care routine.

A consistent diet and regular exercise routine are vital for your Havanese's overall health. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and exercise her regularly, but don't overdo it at first.

Here's a summary of essential care tasks:

Regular check-ups and vaccinations are also crucial to prevent diseases and conditions common in Havanese. Don't forget to sign up for pet health insurance to cover potential medical costs throughout her life.

Preventative care is a crucial aspect of keeping your Havanese happy and healthy. Brushing her teeth at least twice a week can keep her teeth perfect.

Daily brushing and regular trimming is recommended to prevent mats and keep her long coat beautiful. This will also help prevent hairballs and digestive issues.

Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to keep her out of trouble. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infections.

Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and keep her diet consistent to prevent digestive issues. Avoid giving her people food, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Here is a summary of the preventative care tasks to remember:

To keep your Havanese happy and healthy, it's essential to watch her diet and ensure she gets plenty of exercise. Regular brushing of her teeth and coat is also crucial, and you should call a veterinarian or pet emergency hospital if something seems unusual.

Signs of an emergency include scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, inability or straining to urinate, and discolored urine. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

A daily routine of brushing and trimming your Havanese's coat, cleaning her ears weekly, and feeding a high-quality diet appropriate for her age can go a long way in preventing health issues.

To ensure your Havanese lives a long and healthy life, it's essential to build her routine care into your schedule.

Supervising your pet as you would a toddler is crucial. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary to keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn't put in her mouth.

Daily brushing and regular trimming are recommended to prevent mats and keep her long coat beautiful. Brushing her teeth at least twice a week can also help keep her teeth perfect.

Cleaning her ears weekly, even as a puppy, is a must. Don't worry, you'll learn how to do it from her veterinarian.

Havanese are well suited for apartment living, but they still need daily walks and regular inside play. In fact, regular exercise is essential for her overall health and happiness.

Feeding a high-quality diet appropriate for her age and keeping her diet consistent are also crucial. Avoid giving her people food, as this can lead to digestive issues and other problems.

Here's a summary of her routine care needs:

Remember, regular exercise and a proper diet are essential for her overall health and happiness. By following these simple routine care tips, you can help your Havanese live a long and healthy life.

If you notice any of the following signs, seek medical care immediately.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all red flags that require prompt attention.

Inability or straining to urinate, accompanied by discolored urine, can be a sign of a serious issue.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can indicate a range of problems.

Slow or stunted growth, sometimes accompanied by seizures after eating, is a concerning sign.

General reluctance to run or play can be a subtle but important indicator of a health issue.

Here are some key signs that require immediate medical attention:

As you care for your Havanese, it's essential to know what to watch for in terms of symptoms. Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem.

Being able to tell when to seek veterinary help is crucial. You can't predict the future, but you can be prepared by knowing the characteristic combinations of symptoms that many diseases cause in dogs.

A clear signal that your Havanese needs help is a characteristic combination of symptoms. This can be a clear indication that you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

It's not always easy to tell the difference between a minor or temporary problem and a serious disease. That's why it's so important to be aware of the warning signs and to seek help when you need it.

Knowing what to look out for can make a big difference in the health and well-being of your Havanese. By being vigilant and proactive, you can help prevent serious problems from developing.