All dogs and dog breeds are susceptible to particular health issues. Here's why you should get pet insurance for medium mixed breed dogs
Many people believe that mixed-breed dogs are less likely to suffer the inherited health issues that can affect pure breeds. This is true, but not to any great extent. Medium mixes – also known as medium crossbreeds or crosses – are, of course, combinations of pure breeds and can therefore have similar genetic dispositions.
It’s even been suggested that some mixed breed dogs could be at twice the risk of disorders because they inherit them from both parents (or all their ancestors). This makes it equally important that medium mixed breed dogs are covered by pet insurance.
Potential health issues in medium mixed breed dogs can vary greatly – it depends on the breed in the mix – but here are some common examples. Don’t worry, though, pet insurance will meet all or most costs of treating them.
Cataracts
Several medium breeds, like Shiba Inus are more likely to develop cataracts. This is a painful condition that affects the eyes and therefore a dog’s vision. They can occur as a result of diabetes, so it’s worth checking for other related conditions, too. Staying up to date with dogs’ health check-ups (which can be covered with pet wellness plans) can ensure their eye health is monitored. Cataract surgery can cost as much as $5,000 per eye, so getting pet insurance is also a wise move.
Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
Unfortunately, a lot of medium-size dog breeds like are prone to hip or elbow dysplasia, and so are medium mixes. It happens when joints don’t align properly and can pop out – which is as painful as it sounds. It can also lead to arthritis if untreated, which is incurable and can only be managed over a dog’s lifetime. Luckily, there are medical options for dysplasia: surgery, stem cell treatments and physical therapy. But without insurance, you can expect to pay up to $3,000 – or more if you need arthritis drugs every month.
Dislocating kneecap
Breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Poodles are prone to a luxating patella, which means so are the many mixes involving those breed (most notably Cockapoos). It’s a painful condition in which the kneecap slips out of place. Symptoms can begin in puppyhood and can develop through adulthood. If it’s not treated in time, it can cost up to $2,500 for surgery, plus extra for medication.
Ear Problems
Quite a few medium size dogs – like Beagles, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles – have lovely long, floppy ears, and so do their descendants. As beautiful as they are, they can also cause health issues. They’re more likely to attract grass seeds, which can end up in the ear canal, and are more likely to contract ear infections. Ear cleaning is something you should do at home but it’s also included in some wellness plans.
