How To Recognize And Treat Dwarfism In Dogs With Pictures

Many dogs with dwarfism are described as “forever puppies,” because they tend to stay puppy-sized their entire lives.

Dogs with dwarfism may also have shorter jaws and crowded teeth.

Pituitary dwarfism, which typically affects breeds like German Shepherds, Karelian Bear Dogs, Saarloos Wolfhounds, Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs, Miniature pinschers, American Eskimo Dogs, and Weimaraners. [7] X Research source Disproportionate dwarfism, which usually affects breeds like Labrador Retrievers and The Norwegian Elkhound. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Some forms of pituitary dwarfism can also be caused by tumors or infections of the pituitary gland.

Every treatment option comes with its own risks and side effects, and they can be expensive. Talk to your vet about the option that’s right for you, and weigh the pros and cons carefully. Without treatment, dogs with dwarfism typically only live to be 4 or 5 years old. A treatment plan can extend their lifespan and increase their quality of life.

If running is painful for your dog, take it on a slow 20-minute walk once a day. Not sure if your food is high-quality? Check in with your vet. They’ll be able to tell you which brands to look for and which ones to avoid.

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