Border Terrier Medical Conditions
by George Jones

     The Border Terrier has very few genetic diseases associated with the breed.  Breeders today are looking for consistency and temperament, as their primary focus.  The Border Terrier has not achieved the popularity ranking of many of the other terriers.  The breed has therefore not been popular with puppy mills and has not suffered the genetic devastation so often found in "popular" breeds.
 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

       PRA is a hereditary eye disease causing the breakdown of the cells of  the retina. The breakdown is gradual leading to mid-life (age 5-7) blindness.  Many breeders have their dogs screened for this condition.
For further information please see : (Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Degeneration).

Hip Dysplasia
        The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the 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.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see : (Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia).

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