Health Problems Of Puppy Mill Dogs

Many of these puppies are sold directly onsite, via the internet, or through newspaper ads, while most are shipped out to animal stores in all states unbeknown to buyers. In some cases, and particularly for so-called purebreds, this can be over huge distances, further stressing the animal. In addition, although they are touted as being purebred to fetch higher prices, indiscriminate breeding practices of puppy mills usually means they are not purebred. Along with health problems of puppy mill dogs are inbreeding, over-breeding, overcrowded cages, poor quality cages, minimal shelter, limited human interaction, and the slaughtering of unwanted dogs. Those dogs that grow older in puppy mills have a greater chance of becoming sick, including the abnormal development hip dysplasia, respiratory ailments, and even pneumonia. Puppy mill dogs are also more likely to have a bad temperament.

Puppy mill dog health problems

• Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition involves the abnormal development of cells, which leads to problems with mobility in the hind legs. Although hip dysplasia can be treated, the cost of care is traditionally high.


• Canine parvovirus: A virus that causes disease in dogs and one of the main killers of those reared in puppy mills and associated pet stores. It is typically caused by breeding numerous dogs together in a cramped environment. There may be no visible symptoms at the time you buy the pup, yet if they are infected they can be dead with within a matter of days. Symptoms of canine parvovirus include sickness, diarrhea, and fever.


• Eye defects: Puppy mill dogs have a much higher propensity to have eye problems and become blind; a product of breeding with other blind animals or inbreeding. Common eye health problems of puppy mill dogs include cataracts and glaucoma.


• Blood disorders: Anemia is a common blood disorder in puppy mill dogs, as is Von Willebrand's Disease. The latter is particularly serious as the blood will not clot, meaning any injury can lead to the dog’s death.


• Neurological anomalies: Inbreeding is the main cause of problems with the nervous system in puppy mill dogs, with common outcomes being in-coordination and seizures.

One common question that pet owners have is what dosage of a medication to give their pet. For dog meds, the size and weight of your canine companion can be critical in determining what dose is the best and most effective. Giving too much of a medicine can have adverse effects and even lead to the death of the animal whereas giving too little means you are just wasting money while your dog fails to improve. The wrong dose can also result in more drastic side effects of the medication. Always read the dosage instructions on the medication or med box carefully before giving it to your pet. If you are off to the vet, then take a pad and pen to jot down any special recommendations that the animal doctor says about your pet's meds. Although dosages are usually written out for you, it pays to be cautious and double check. Mixing medications can also lead to all sorts of problems!

As you can see, health problems of puppy mill dogs are all too evident. Those who are looking to buy a dog should seek out a licensed commercial kennels, which are routinely inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture.

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