ORTHOPEDIC PROBLEMS IN HAVANESE DOGS

Although you should be aware of possible orthopedic conditions in Havanese, 90% of the Havanese evaluate normal for the orthopedic conditions tested. Orthopedic problems, although few compared to other breeds, should be known to buyers and owners so that they can make informed decisions when caring for their pets.

LUXATING PATELLAS: The kneecaps and patellas are at the end of the thighbone and are held together by ligaments. They sit in a groove. If they move out of that groove, it luxates or shifts. This may be mild or severe and depending on severity and can cause much pain. This may be corrected by surgery. Since this condition has a tendency to be hereditary, all Havanese should be tested for this before being bred. If the patellas are normal the dogs can be registered and listed with the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Responsible breeders have an obligation to breed healthy dogs. The objective of the OFA is to gather and carefully verify information concerning orthopedic and genetic disease in animals and to inform, encourage research and establish control programs to lower the incidence of orthopedic and genetic diseases in animals.

The OFA, through a database, offers a way to improve genetic health through better breeding practices. The method of testing has been established by veterinary specialists and these standards are usually accepted throughout the world. Buyers and breeders as well can go to the OFA website and check records of parents (needing to know at least part of their name) to see if they test clear. As always, there is no guarantee, but of course it is better to be better informed and know that your puppy has less chance of orthopedic problems.

 Legg-calve-Perthes

This condition is a breaking down of the thighbone or femur that sits into the hip socket. The ball begins to break down due to an inadequate supply of blood to the head of the femur. This causes pain and the dog will become lame. Surgery can correct this by removing the affected bone. After surgery, a false joint forms that allows the dog to function fairly normally. There are some other conditions but usually are not connected with the Havanese but a couple are chondrodysplasia, hip and elbow dysplasia. Having a veterinarian who is very knowledgeable about toy dogs, especially Havanese will be invaluable to you and your beloved Havanese.