Have you ever wondered why Beagles are extremely loved? Ask any pet parent and they will be delighted to tell you all! These adorable doggos are known to bring joy and luck to the household. However, like all dog breeds, they are prone to some common health problems that can affect their quality of life.
Today, we will explore 10 common health issues among beagles, providing insights into their symptoms, preventative interventions and treatment options.
Obesity
Beagle owners are well aware of the intense eating habits of their dogs. They can’t resist the strong smell of certain foods and would be tempted to eat anything that comes in their way. Therefore, obesity is a common health issue among Beagles. Obesity can lead to serious health problems, including lethargy, joint pain and digestive disorders.
As pet parents, you need to carefully monitor their food consumption and keep their favorite treats out of their reach. Research shows that high fat diet can cause obesity in Beagles. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for preventing obesity, and frequent veterinary examinations may help you manage your Beagle’s weight.
Ear Infections
People adore Beagles due to their cute floppy ears, but to outshine them they require some special care. Their long ears completely cover the ear opening, reducing the air flow in the ear canal. Unfortunately, this makes them more prone to ear infections as the moist and dark conditions inside allow rapid growth of yeast and bacteria.
If you notice your dog excessively scratching its ears or suspect a yeasty smell, 99.9% chances are that your dog has an ear infection. Don’t panic, these infections can be easily treated through high-quality medicated cleansers. Regularly clean their ears, especially after bathing or swimming, to prevent any serious infection.
Epilepsy
Beagles are genetically more susceptible to developing epilepsy than any other breed. This usually starts between the ages of 2 and 5 and requires anti-seizure medications to manage the symptoms. The telltale signs of epilepsy include:
- Uncontrolled shaking
- Temporary confusion
- Stiffness
The seizures can range from mild to severe and may last for 30 seconds to 10 minutes. A severe seizure can also cause unstoppable urination, defecation, and thrashing. Although there is no known cure for epilepsy, it can be efficiently managed with medicine and a well-organized lifestyle. Additionally, your veterinarian can assist you in creating a well-informed care plan that will safeguard your dog throughout his regular activities.
Cherry Eye
Did you know dogs have 3 eyelids? Well, this added protection may sometimes become a temporary source of suffering for them. Beagles under the age of 1 can develop an eye condition called ‘Cherry Eye.’ It happens when the gland in the third eyelid swells, giving a red appearance in the lower inner corner of the eye.
Although it normally doesn’t hurt, this disorder might result in infections in the eyes. One or both eyes may develop cherry eyes. While some cases can be resolved on their own, depending on how severe the cherry eye is, your doctor may advise realigning your dog’s eyelid surgically.
Allergies
Beagles are susceptible to various allergies that can significantly impact their well-being. One common type of allergy seen in Beagles is food allergies. These include proteins such as beef, chicken, lamb, pork, fish, and dairy. Other foods that can lead to an allergic reaction include grains such as corn, wheat, and soy products. Food allergies can be identified with symptoms such as skin rashes, stomach discomforts, and constant ear infections.
Beagles are also sensitive to environmental allergens. These can be seasonal, with pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds being the main triggers, or perennial allergies, caused by indoor allergens such as mold and dust mites. Some of the common symptoms of environmental allergies include scratching, redness, and inflammation of the skin.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Older beagles can develop IVDD, which causes the spinal discs to degenerate, leading to severe pain and paralysis. Beagle’s long backs make them vulnerable to this disease. Your dog requires immediate professional care if you observe the following symptoms:
- Dog stops responding to food cues and refuses to play
- Limping and dragging hind legs
- Stiff or arched back
- Loss of bowel control
The two primary forms of this disease are Hansen Type I and Hansen Type II. Type I typically affects younger dogs ages 3 to 6. The dog suffers from sudden and severe symptoms due to the acute rupture of the disc. On the other hand, Type II involves a slow degeneration of the disc and impacts older beagles.
Chondrodysplasia
Dwarfism is a rare genetic disorder that can develop among beagles at around 4 to 5 weeks of age. These dogs often have shorter, bowed legs compared to the rest of their body size. The shortened limbs are due to abnormal development of the growth plates in the bones, which can also cause joint issues and affect overall mobility. In the worst cases, it can also affect the spine, increasing the risk of IVDD.
Currently, there is no cure for chondrodysplasia. NSAIDs can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Moreover, physical therapy can also be beneficial to strengthen muscles and maintain joint flexibility.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, which can slow down metabolism. This is a common disease among beagles and can be diagnosed with a simple blood test. They may experience lethargy, dry skin, hair loss, and even weight gain. Thanks to thyroid supplements, these issues can be easily managed.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a condition that affects the kneecap in beagles, causing it to dislocate from its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone. Grade I and Grade IV represent the mild and severe categories on a scale for patellar luxation. X-rays or other imaging techniques may be used to evaluate the extent of the dislocation and any bone deformities.
Beagles with luxation hold up the affected leg for a while before resuming normal walking. On top of that, they show reluctance while jumping and climbing the stairs. Mild conditions can be easily managed by anti-inflammatory drugs and therapy. However, severe cases require surgical interventions to realign the knee muscles.
Limber Tail Syndrome
Beagles never seem to stop wagging their tails. So cute, right? But this cuteness comes at the cost of muscle strain and swelling. Yes, pet parents! Your dog may suffer from limber tail syndrome, where too much wagging can result in a sore tail. There is no need to worry, as it automatically resolves within a day or two of rest.
To Summarize…
Beagles, while beloved for their friendly and joyful nature are susceptible to more health issues than any other dog breed. For instance, obesity, cherry eye, ear infections, dwarfism and more!
The good news is that pet parents can easily prevent all the common problems discussed above. Some of the best ways include a healthy diet, exercise and regular veterinary care.
FAQs
What is the most common cause of death in Beagles?
23.1% of Beagles die because of cancer. You might be surprised to know that it is the leading cause of death among all 11 Beagle breeds. Lymphoma is the most common type of cancer among Beagles. Almost half of the cancers can be surgically removed, while most types can be cured by chemotherapy.
Ensure your Beagle gets its regular dose of carrots, blueberries and other high anti-oxidant rich diet.
Is Beagle high maintenance?
Beagles are generally a low-maintenance breed. If you are not fond of intense grooming sessions, Beagle can be a perfect choice for you. They have a short and waterproof fur coat that is pretty easy to maintain. However, they do shed a lot! Besides, they are wonderful dogs who respond well to treats during training.
Is a Beagle a healthy dog?
Beagles are healthy dogs that can live up to 12 to 15 years. Like all breeds, they require regular veterinary care as they are more prone to certain diseases. Their immense love for food can cause obesity, while drooping ears can lead to ear infections. Moreover, they may develop eye diseases like cherry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma.
How do I know if my Beagle is dying?
It is heartbreaking to see a beloved pet in their last days of life. Look out for the following signs that may indicate the final stages of your pet’s life:
- Lost interest in eating and drinking
- Extremely tired and weak
- Changes in breathing patterns (shallow or rapid)
- Lose control over bowels and bladder
- Lack of interest in playful activities
- Drastic changes in physical appearance
Do Beagles have separation anxiety?
Beagles can be trained to stay alone for a few hours. However, remember that they are prone to suffering from separation anxiety and shouldn’t be left home alone for more than 6 hours. They are a pack animal and prefer to be around their owners or other pets, as they enjoy company, hunting, exercise, and mental simulation.
