Many dog breeds have hereditary health conditions so prevalent they affect a majority of individuals. Understanding breed health genetics helps prospective owners make welfare-informed choices.
The hereditary disease burden in many pedigree dog breeds represents a preventable welfare crisis. Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, heart disease, or epilepsy are in pain or compromised health through no fault of their own — and in many cases, through decisions made by breeders prioritizing appearance or performance over health. Genetic testing enables responsible breeding that reduces disease prevalence over generations; health-tested breeding is not expensive relative to the veterinary costs it prevents. Prospective owners who seek health-tested puppies from responsible breeders send a market signal that welfare matters in breed selection.