American Eskimo Dog Medical Conditions
by Jennie Bullock

     The American Eskimo Dog is a relatively healthy dog breed. They are not, however, impervious to medical disorders.  Purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder is your best assurance of reducing difficulties. To date PRA and Hip Dysplasia are the most common medical problems in this breed at less than 10% effected. The miniature sized Eskie tend to have higher incidence of Juvenile Cataracts.
     The breed as a whole has a sensitivity to the older, slower acting anesthesias and several other medications. It is important that your veteriarian check for the sensitivity and adverse reactions associated with the drug in question prior to administering it to an Eskie.

 Legg-Calve-Perthes
     This condition is due to improper blood flow that leads to the destruction of femoral head (ball head) in the hip joint.
For further information please see : (medical index/legg-calve-perthes.)
 

Hip Dysplasia (HD)
       Hip Dysplasia is the result of the malformation of the hip joint(s).  This condition is a common difficulty in most of the large dog breeds.  This condition is both genetic and environmentally influenced.
       Be sure that both parents of any American Eskimo Dog puppy you are considering purchasing is certified by OFA or Penn Hip to be free of Hip Dysplasia.
       Over-feeding, over-exercise and injury while young may also contribute to your puppy damaging his hips(leading to degeneration).

For more information please see: (Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia).

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
        Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) are among the most common eye problems in American Eskimo Dogs. These conditions usually begin to display symptoms at about 2 years of age.  They are progressive in their degeneration. Both conditions are hereditary. Both parents should have CERF certification proof, when looking to purchase a pup.
For more information please see: (Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

Juvenile Cataracts
     Juvenile cataracts appear to be genetic in nature.  A reputable breeder will not use breeding stock that has been treated for this condition.
For further information please see: (medical index/juvenile cataracts.)

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