Just as us humans need doctors and medical care, so do our dogs. Part of responsible dog ownership is providing food, shelter, socialization, as well as proper medical attention. This includes wellness check-ups, adhering to local laws for vaccinations, and being prepared for emergency visits. According to pet insurance companies, marketing studies, and veterinary associations, some breeds rack up more vet bills than others.
First, Let’s Talk Prevention
Reputable, responsible, purpose driven breeders will conduct health screenings on their dogs prior to breeding. These can cost hundreds, and sometimes thousands of dollars, which is why disreputable breeders who are only driven by financial gain, will often bypass them. There are genetic tests that can be done for certain medical issues. Purpose breeders will not breed dogs with known genetic issues, which means the genetic issues and concurrent medical costs will not occur.
Every breed will have suggested health screening that should be done. Research the breed you are interested in and ask the breeder pointed questions. Some dogs should be screened for hearing, have color Dopplers performed on their heart, be checked for hip dysplasia, or susceptibility to vision issues. If the breeder does not conduct these medical tests, find another breeder.
Educate yourself before you start looking for a canine companion.
Breeders Can Help
There are never any absolute guarantees, but health screening breeding dogs goes a long way to preventing high vet bills down the line. Reputable breeders will take a dog back no matter what, and/or help you with the dog’s illness, much of the time.
Top 20 Most Expensive Breeds
Let’s look at the 20 breeds that typically accumulate the highest veterinary bills over their lifetime, based on their predisposition to various health issues and the cost of care required.
1. Goldendoodle
According to a study done by MarketWatch, this mixed breed dog (“designer breed” is a marketing term) is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and first year costs come in at about $5,675, with an average of $2,250 annually expected after that. Over an average life expectancy of 13 years, this comes to about $32,675 for the life if the dog.
2. Labradoodle
The same MarketWatch study says this mixed breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as epilepsy, diabetes, and progressive retinal apathy.
3. English Bulldog
Prone to breathing difficulties, overheating, dental problems, skin infections, hip dysplasia, and eye conditions.
4. German Shepherd
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat.
5. Rottweiler
At risk for hip and elbow dysplasia among other health conditions.
6. Great Dane
Known for their susceptibility to hip dysplasia, heart diseases, and bloat.
7. Boxer
Prone to cancers, heart conditions, and hip dysplasia.
8. Doberman Pinscher
Susceptible to heart disease, hip dysplasia, and Wobbler syndrome.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Known for a high incidence of cancer, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
10. Newfoundland
Prone to heart diseases, hip dysplasia, and other joint issues.
11. Bullmastiff
Susceptible to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cancer.
12. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Known for their susceptibility to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
13. Cocker Spaniel
Prone to ear infections, eye conditions, hip dysplasia, heart disease, and skin allergies.
14. Golden Retriever
Known for a high incidence of cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, heart diseases, and skin conditions.
15. Flat-Coated Retriever
Similar health issues to Golden Retrievers, including cancer and joint problems.
16. Irish Wolfhound
Susceptible to heart disease, bone cancer, and bloat.
17. Samoyed
Prone to genetic conditions like hip dysplasia, heart issues, and diabetes.
18. Dogue de Bordeaux
Known for heart diseases, joint issues, and skin conditions.
19. Cane Corso
Susceptible to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic health issues.
20. American Bulldog
Prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other hereditary conditions.
The Takeaway
By choosing your dog or puppy carefully, you can avoid many of these medical costs. If you do end up with a dog with these issues, you should be prepared for potential high veterinary costs and consider investing in pet insurance to help manage these expenses.
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