Lhasa Apso Health Issues That Affect Their Quality of Life

Lhasa Apso health issues can significantly impact their quality of life, making it essential to be aware of the potential problems that can arise.

Hip dysplasia is a common issue in Lhasa Apsos, affecting up to 50% of the breed. This can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.

Their small size can make them prone to obesity, which can exacerbate existing health issues and reduce their lifespan. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial.

Patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place, is another issue that can affect Lhasa Apsos, particularly those with a family history of the condition.

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Lhasa Apsos are prone to certain health issues that can affect their quality of life. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet's breed.

Some common health issues in Lhasa Apsos include eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma, which can cause blindness and are extremely painful if left untreated. Brushing your dog's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease.

Heart failure can also be a concern, as some dogs will develop degenerative valves in the heart over time.

Eye problems can have a dramatic impact on your dog's quality of life, and Lhasa Apsos are particularly prone to certain issues.

Lhasa Apsos 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.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Lhasas, and we'll watch for the lenses of their eyes to become more opaque, meaning they look cloudy instead of clear.

Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine, but surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option.

Your Lhasa's eyeballs naturally protrude, making them more vulnerable to eye injuries, such as scrapes or punctures to the cornea, which can become infected and affect their vision.

Don't let your Lhasa ride in the car with their head out the window, as this is a frequent cause of eye injuries.

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A damaged cornea is painful and should be treated immediately, requiring medication and sometimes surgery.

Glaucoma is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated, and symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes.

In advanced cases, the eye may look enlarged or swollen like it's bulging, and glaucoma is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Your Lhasa Apso is prone to skin problems, and it's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Malassezia dermatitis, a yeast infection, can cause itching, redness, and a brown waxy discharge in the ears, and greasy, hairless areas on the skin.

Bathing with special shampoos and rinses may help, and addressing underlying allergies can also be beneficial. If left untreated, these diseases can lead to an itchy, bald, and smelly dog.

Mast cell tumors can appear as lumps or bumps and should be checked out by a veterinarian.

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to know what to watch for when it comes to your Lhasa Apso's health. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they're related to your pet's breed.

Brushing your dog's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease. This simple habit can save your Lhasa from a world of pain and discomfort.

Lhasa Apsos are more prone to eye injuries due to their protruding eyeballs. Scrapes or punctures to the cornea are the most common injuries, and they can become infected and affect your dog's vision.

Glaucoma is a medical emergency that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. If you notice symptoms like squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, or redness in the whites of the eyes, don't wait to call your vet – go to an emergency clinic right away.

Over time, some Lhasa Apsos will develop heart failure due to degenerative valves in the heart. Regular check-ups with your vet can help monitor your dog's heart health and prevent this condition from progressing.

Your Lhasa Apso may develop cataracts, a common cause of blindness in older Lhasas. Regular eye exams can detect cataracts early, and surgery may be an option to restore your dog's sight.

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Lhasa Apsos are prone to several genetic and chronic conditions that can affect their quality of life. Intervertebral disc disease is a common condition in Lhasas, caused when the jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slips or ruptures, putting pressure on the spinal cord.

Hip dysplasia is an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and leads to arthritis, which is common in Lhasa Apsos.

Portosystemic shunt, a liver disorder, can also affect Lhasa Apsos, causing the liver to not remove toxins from the bloodstream effectively.

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Lhasa Apsos are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, just like all dogs can get.

Parvo, rabies, and distemper are just a few examples of the infections that can affect Lhasa Apsos.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination.

Vaccination recommendations will be based on the diseases we see in our area, the dog's age, and other factors.

Lhasa Apsos are prone to parasites, which can invade their bodies inside and out. These parasites can include fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms.

Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito can get these parasites into your Lhasa's system. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and even death if left untreated.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member, making them a serious concern for everyone. Regular testing is essential to catch these parasites early and prevent serious health issues.

Preventive medication can be recommended to keep your Lhasa healthy and parasite-free. This can give you peace of mind knowing your furry friend is protected from these unwanted invaders.

Lhasa Apsos are prone to a number of musculoskeletal problems, including intervertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia.

Intervertebral disc disease is a common condition in Lhasas, caused by the jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slipping or rupturing, which can lead to severe pain and paralysis.

If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump up, go up stairs, or is reluctant to move around, he may be in severe pain due to intervertebral disc disease.

Weight control is crucial in preventing intervertebral disc disease, as excess weight can put additional stress on the back.

Using ramps or steps from puppyhood can also help prevent back problems by reducing the need for jumping.

Patellar luxation is another common issue in Lhasas, where the kneecap slips out of place, causing the dog to hop or skip to realign it.

If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, arthritis medication may be enough to manage the symptoms.

However, if symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap.

Hip dysplasia is an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly, leading to arthritis and lameness in the hind legs.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering.

Early detection and treatment of hip dysplasia can help prevent discomfort and pain, and surgery may be considered in severe and life-limiting cases.

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

Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly.

If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively.

To check for this problem, we’ll conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time he undergoes anesthesia.

If he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, we’ll test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver.

Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication.

Bleeding disorders in dogs are a serious concern that can range from very mild to very severe.

There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs, which can affect their quality of life.

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Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result.

Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Lhasa Apsos.

We should conduct diagnostic testing for blood clotting time or a specific DNA blood test for Von Willebrand’s disease or other similar disorders before performing surgery.

Stones can form in the urinary bladder resulting in irritation and potentially obstruction.

Kidney disease is a serious issue for Lhasa Apsos, particularly due to a inherited disease called glomerulonephropathy.

This disease slowly damages your Lhasa Apso's kidneys, causing them to fail often at an early age.

Early detection is key, and we recommend yearly urine analysis to catch the disease before it's too late.

We may be able to diagnose glomerulonephropathy by testing your Lhasa Apso's urine for excessive protein.

Damaged kidneys leak protein, making this test a crucial tool in our diagnostic process.

By catching the disease early, we can create a happier, healthier pet with a more affordable treatment plan.

A special diet may also be recommended as part of the therapy plan to help manage your Lhasa Apso's kidney disease.

Epilepsy is a serious condition that affects many dogs, and it's essential to understand the different types and what causes them. There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary.

Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma.

If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Lhasa Apsos commonly afflicted.

If your dog is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause.

Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue.

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Lhasa Apsos are prone to cancer, especially in their golden years. Many cancers can be cured by surgically removing them.

Early detection is critical for treating cancer in Lhasa Apsos. We'll perform periodic diagnostic tests and look for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet.

Some types of cancer are treatable with chemotherapy.

Heart disease is a leading cause of death among Lhasa Apsos in their golden years.

Most heart disease in dogs is caused by weakening of a valve, which slowly becomes deformed and fails to close tightly.

Blood then leaks back around this valve, straining the heart, and pets with heart valve disease often have a heart murmur.

If your dog has a heart murmur or outward signs suggesting heart problems, we'll perform testing to determine the severity of the disease.

The same tests will need to be repeated at least every year to monitor the condition.

If heart valve disease is diagnosed early, we may be able to prescribe medications that could prolong his life for many years.

Veterinary dental care can help prevent heart disease, and fatty acid supplementation can also play a role in preventing it.

Weight control can help diminish symptoms of heart disease, making it easier to manage the condition.

Preventative care is a crucial aspect of keeping your Lhasa Apso healthy. Regular brushing of her teeth and coat is essential, and daily brushing is recommended, or her coat can be clipped for easier care.

Lhasa Apsos often have serious problems with their teeth, so brushing them at least three times a week is necessary. Cleaning her ears weekly, even as a puppy, will also help prevent infections.

To keep your dog's diet consistent, feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and avoid giving her people food. Regular exercise is also important, but don't overdo it at first – daily walks and short play sessions are recommended.

Dental care is a crucial aspect of preventative care for your Lhasa Apso. Regular brushing is essential to prevent tartar build-up on the teeth, which can lead to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth.

Lhasa Apsos are prone to serious problems with their teeth, so you'll need to brush them at least three times a week! This will help prevent dental disease, which affects 80% of all dogs by age two.

You can also clean your dog's ears weekly, even as a puppy. This will help keep them clean and prevent any potential infections.

Here are some tips for maintaining your Lhasa Apso's dental health:

By following these tips and maintaining regular dental care, you can help prevent dental disease and keep your Lhasa Apso's teeth healthy and strong.

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

Giving your Lhasa Apso leftover people food and doggie treats can lead to obesity, so it's essential to resist those tempting moments when she looks at you with soulful eyes.

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk to keep her happy and healthy.

These simple activities can help her feel better, and so will you.

Taking care of your Lhasa Apso's diet is crucial. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age.

To prevent dental problems, brush your Lhasa's teeth at least three times a week. Lhasa Apsos often have serious problems with their teeth, so this is a must.

Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. 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.

A consistent diet is essential. Keep your dog's diet consistent and don't give her people food.

To keep her coat healthy, brush it daily or consider clipping it for easier care. Her long coat requires daily brushing or her coat can be clipped for easier care.

To prevent ear infections, clean your Lhasa's ears weekly, even as a puppy. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don't worry—we'll show you how!

To prevent back injuries, use ramps or steps so she doesn't stress her back by jumping off the furniture. That long back is at risk for injury – use ramps or steps so she doesn’t stress her back by jumping off the furniture.

Here is a list of essential care tasks to perform regularly:

When it's time to take your Lhasa Apso to the vet, it's essential to know what to look out for. Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem.

Changes in appetite or water consumption, tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth are all red flags. These symptoms can be indicative of underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

Here are some common signs of potential health problems in Lhasa Apsos:

Spaying or neutering your Lhasa Apso can also help prevent certain health issues. This surgery can decrease the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminate the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

Spaying or neutering your Lhasa is one of the best things you can do for her. It decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

In females, spaying involves surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus, while in males, neutering involves surgically removing the testicles. This simple procedure can have a significant impact on your pet's health and well-being.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This is a great opportunity to catch any potential issues early on.

Performing the surgery also gives us a chance to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as hip problems or the need for a puppy tooth extraction.

Be aware of the importance of monitoring your Lhasa Apso's appetite and water consumption, as changes in these habits can be a clear signal that your dog needs veterinary help.

Changes in appetite or water consumption can be a sign of a serious disease, so keep a close eye on your dog's eating and drinking habits.

Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth are all signs of dental issues that require veterinary attention.

Itchy skin, hair loss, and excessive scratching or chewing can be caused by allergies or skin conditions.

Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping can be indicative of underlying health problems that need to be addressed.

Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes can be a sign of pain, anxiety, or other issues that require veterinary help.

Here are some potential signs that your Lhasa Apso needs veterinary attention:

If you notice any of the following signs in your Lhasa Apso, seek medical care immediately. These can be serious health issues that require prompt attention.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all potential indicators of a problem that needs to be addressed.

Inability or straining to urinate, or discolored urine, can be a sign of a urinary tract issue that requires medical attention.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes are all potential signs of an eye problem that needs to be checked out.

Slow or stunted growth, or seizures after eating, can be signs of a serious health issue that needs to be addressed.

Here are some other signs that may indicate an emergency: