Study Finds Purebred and Mixed-Breed Dogs Equal in Health Condition Diagnoses: Texas A&M University Research

The common belief that purebred dogs are more prone to disease than mixed-breed dogs has been debunked by a recent study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University and the Dog Aging Project. The study, published in the journal Frontiers In Veterinary Science, found that while certain dog breeds may be predisposed to specific diseases, overall, purebred and mixed-breed dogs are mostly equal in terms of the frequency of health condition diagnoses.

Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project, emphasized that the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to disease is not accurate. The study surveyed over 27,000 companion dogs and found that common diagnoses like ear infections and osteoarthritis occur in both purebred 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 among the most common. Across these breeds, 53 unique medical conditions were reported, with dental calculus, dog bites, and osteoarthritis being some of the top conditions.

Interestingly, the study also found that some of the most common reported conditions in mixed-breed dogs were similar to those in purebred dogs, with only a few differences. This highlights the importance of considering various factors beyond breed when choosing a dog, such as environment, lifestyle, and preventive care.

Dr. Creevy emphasized the importance of regular veterinary care and preventive measures for all dogs, regardless of breed. The study’s findings have implications for dog owners in understanding and managing their pets’ health effectively.

The Dog Aging Project continues to enroll dogs of all breeds to further research on canine health and aging. With over 50,000 dogs already enrolled, the project aims to gain a better understanding of what contributes to a long and healthy life for dogs. To learn more or enroll your dog in the project, visit dogagingproject.org.