AFGHAN HOUND
MEDICAL
by Lee Weston
     As with any dog, the Afghan Hounds are not genetically perfect.  Obtaining a puppy from a responsible breeder of quality animals is one of the keys to you receiving a healthy puppy.  There are three medical conditions to which Afghan Hounds are prone.

Cataracts
     Cataracts in dogs can be identified as opaque spots on the lens of the eye.  These spots may cause total or partial loss of vision.  Some cataracts are hereditary, while others are not.  In some cases surgery may help the dog recover.
For more information please see : Medical Index/Cataracts.

Hip Dysplasia
     The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of he femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe.  In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise, the animal can lead a full and active life.  In more severe cases, surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  Your veterinarian can x-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For more information please see : Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia.

Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is the result of low production of hormones by the thyroid gland.  The symptoms can include skin and coat problems, sudden onset of aggressivie behavior, itching lethargy, musky odor, among others.  A simple blood test will determine if your dog has this condition.
For more information please see :  Medical Index/Hypothyroidism.



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