Are Rat Terriers healthy dogs?
Rat Terriers are an incredibly sturdy breed with a long lifespan, partly because of the vast genetic pool they come from. Like most dogs, they may end up with one of the following conditions:
- Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Unlike in hip dysplasia, where the main problem is joint instability, the abnormalities seen in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.
- Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place, which can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.
- Others: Incorrect bite, where the jaw is slightly deformed and causes misalignment in the jaw (similar to an over or underbite in humans); and allergies.