Congenital or Inherited Disorders in Dogs

Let’s say you’ve completed the exam described above and have found some potential problem areas. What do you do next? First, don’t get discouraged. Many of these conditions have quick, inexpensive solutions. This is where a veterinarian comes in handy.

Eyes

• Microphthalmia (small eyes)
• Juvenile cataracts
• Entropion/ectropion
• Glaucoma
• Prolapsed third eyelid
• Tear duct deformity

Ears

• Congenital deafness

Nervous system

• Epilepsy
• Brain underdevelopment
• Hydrocephalus
• Invertebral disk disease

Integument

• Umbilical hernia
• Inguinal hernia
• Demodectic mange

Digestive system

• Cleft palate
• Abnormal dentition
• Overbite or underbite

Musculoskeletal system

• Dwarfism
• Joint dislocations
• Patellar luxation

Cardiovascular system

• Blood-clotting disorders
• Heart murmurs
• Anemia

Respiratory system

• Collapsed trachea

Reproductive system

• Retained testicles (cryptorchidism)

*For ethical purposes, all pets with congenital or inherited disorders should be neutered.