New Research Debunks Belief That Purebred Dogs Are More Susceptible to Health Issues

Study Debunks Myth That Purebred Dogs Are More Prone to Disease Than Mixed-Breed Dogs
Study Led by Texas A&M Researchers Debunks Myth About Purebred Dogs and Disease
A new study led by researchers at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences has challenged the common belief that purebred dogs are more prone to disease than mixed-breed dogs. Published in the journal Frontiers In Veterinary Science, the study found that while certain dog breeds are predisposed to specific diseases, overall, purebred and mixed-breed dogs have similar frequencies of health condition diagnoses.
Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, explained, “There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds. This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to disease, but that is not the case.”
The study surveyed the owners of over 27,000 companion dogs and found that common diagnoses like ear infections or osteoarthritis occur in both purebreds and mixed-breed dogs. The study identified 25 popular purebred dog breeds within the Dog Aging Project, with Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, and German shepherds being the top three.
Among the top reported medical conditions for these breeds were dental calculus, dog bites, extracted teeth, and osteoarthritis. Interestingly, the study also found that some conditions, like dental disease and osteoarthritis, were equally prevalent in both purebred and mixed-breed dogs, while others showed variations.
The implications of this study are significant for dog owners, as it highlights the importance of considering various factors beyond breed when caring for a pet. Dr. Creevy emphasized the need for preventive veterinary care and planning for a dog’s medical needs as they age. The study also emphasized the importance of regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight to prevent common conditions like dental disease and osteoarthritis.
The Dog Aging Project continues to enroll dogs of all breeds to further expand understanding of canine health and aging. With over 50,000 dogs already enrolled, the project aims to inform not only dog health but also human health through translational studies. To enroll your dog or learn more about the project, visit dogagingproject.org.