Every breed of dog (including mixed-breeds) has health problems. It is important that you seek as much information about potential problems (genetic or otherwise) before you buy your dog. There is a depth of knowledge available on health issues in dogs, and you are encouraged to do research into this issue.
In fact, I ask all potential new Portuguese Water Dog owners that they research health issues as part of their preparation for getting a dog.
A good web page to start from is: Genetics health page
The PWD does have some health issues of which you need to be aware. The main ones are PRA, Storage Disease, and Hip Dysplasia. There are also problems with cardiomyopathy, Addison's Disease, and IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease). The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America has been very proactive in its approach to health issues. Their web page has some excellent information well worth a look: PWDCA Health Page
There has been a lot of money donated into health research in the US for the PWD and many other breeds. Because of this money, and subsequent research, combined with a very determined effort by the PWDCA and its members, the incidence of Storage Disease is now minute, and the incidence of PRA has dropped dramatically. It is expected that by the middle of 1998 there will be a test available to determine whether of not a PWD has PRA (or is a carrier of the gene), well before its affects become apparent. One of the current major fundraising efforts at the moment is for research into Cardiomyopathy.
When you are talking with breeders of PWD make sure you ask them about the health problems in their lines. You can be certain that every PWD (and any dog for that matter) does have some health problems behind them. Be very concerned if breeders say there are no problems in their lines. There are always problems. Do your research. And ask LOTS of questions.
The Bluegrace PWD's are health tested where possible, and as more health tests become available, these will be also utilised. Please feel free to ask me any questions about health issues. If I can't answer you, then I will be sure to try and find out for you, or point you in the direction for further information.
At Bluegrace, we consider the health of the PWD as an absolutely critical component of the success of the breed. However, it is an issue that needs to be managed. While we will strive to understand all the health issues in our dogs, we will never know for sure what is there, and what will be produced from a breeding. No doubt, as numbers in the breed increases, more issues will strike.
At Bluegrace we will let you know as much as we do about all and any health risks that are associated with a Bluegrace breeding, and what health issues may come with a pup.
Shelly's blood has been stored in the US, prior to her coming to Australia so that she can be tested for PRA, as soon as that test becomes available.
- visitors to this particular page since 27th May, 1998.
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