The Husky….a generally healthy breed!
No breed of dog is totally free from inheritable genetic defects, but few breeds have had the good fortune of the Siberian Husky. Not only is the individual dog generally healthy and of good temperament, but throughout the years there hasn’t been a lot of genetic issues. The Siberian Husky Club of America, Inc. (SHCA), has maintained a watchful eye for potential genetic problems and has taken positive action in those instances when the general health and well-being of the breed has been challenged. The Husky generally only has two areas of problems when it comes to its health. These are:
1. Canine hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is an abnormality of the hip joint in which the head of the thighbone (femur) does not fit properly into its pelvic joint socket. This condition is not present at birth but develops during the first two years of the dog’s life. It is often progressive and causing inflammation, pain, and arthritis of the affected hip. It is aggravated by strenuous exercise as well as sitting up, lying down, or climbing stairs. The Siberian Husky has been one of the few breeds that had a dramatic decrease in the incidence of hip dysplasia from 1980 through 1995
2. Inheritable eye disease: These include: juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy. All of these are hereditary. Of the three major eye diseases of the Siberian Husky, hereditary cataracts are the most common, followed by corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Special care and regular visits to the vet, can ensure that your Husky is getting treatment to hopefully prolong occurences or treat the symptoms. Do bear in mind, that apart from these diseases, the Husky is a generally healthy breed compared to other dog breeds!
