Study Led by Texas A&M University Busts Myth About Purebred Dogs and Disease Prone-ness

The belief that purebred dogs are more prone to disease than mixed-breed dogs has been debunked by a new study led by researchers at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The study, published in the journal Frontiers In Veterinary Science, found that while certain dog breeds are prone to specific diseases, purebred and mixed-breed dogs are mostly equal when it comes to overall frequency 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 that the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to disease is not accurate. The study surveyed the owners of more than 27,000 companion dogs and found that some of the most common diagnoses, like ear infections or osteoarthritis, occur in both purebreds and mixed-breed dogs.

The study identified 25 breeds that make up about 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project, with Labrador retriever, Golden retriever, and German shepherd being the most popular breeds. Across these breeds, 53 unique medical conditions were reported, with dental calculus, dog bites, and osteoarthritis being among the top reported health conditions.

The implications of the study for dog owners are significant, as it highlights the importance of considering various factors when choosing a dog, beyond just breed. Factors such as environment, lifestyle, social interactions, and physical activity should all be taken into account when creating a pet’s care plan or deciding what kind of dog to adopt.

The Dog Aging Project continues to enroll companion dogs from all backgrounds to study the effects of aging and gain a better understanding of what contributes to a long and healthy life for a dog. The project has already enrolled over 50,000 dogs and has led to translational studies that inform both dog and human health. To enroll your dog or learn more about the project, visit dogagingproject.org.