Do Afghan Hounds have a lot of health problems?
No, Afghan Hounds do not have a lot of health problems as a baseline for the breed. Still, like any breed, they do face some risks of inherited health conditions.
- Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition occurs when the hip joint and socket don't fit together properly, causing pain, lameness, and arthritis over time. Pain relief, joint support supplements, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the symptoms.
- Sensitivity to anesthesia: Like most sighthounds, the Afghan Hound has a sensitivity to anesthesia. This means it takes longer for them to recover from anesthesia and being put under anesthesia puts them at a higher risk of complications such as malignant hyperthermia.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, and skin problems. It is typically managed with daily medication.
- Hereditary myelopathy: Also known as degenerative myelopathy, this is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that leads to weakness and eventual paralysis of the hind limbs. There is no cure, but physical therapy and supportive care can help manage symptoms.
- Gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV): Commonly known as bloat and occurring more often in deep-chested dogs like Afghan Hounds, GDV is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Immediate veterinary intervention is required, and preventive measures include feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating.
- Cataracts: This condition involves the clouding of the eye’s lens, which can lead to vision impairment or blindness, especially in older Afghan Hounds. Treatment often involves surgical removal of the cataracts to restore vision.