Possible Beagle Puppy Health Conditions

Ever since Uno won best in show at Westminster, the popularity of Beagles has sky-rocketed.  Though Beagles have always been a family favorite when it comes to dog breeds, Uno's win really put the spotlight on this friendly and wonderful canine. While most Beagle puppies are born healthy, there are a few health related issues to be on the look-out for.

Cherry Eye is a relatively common condition and can easily be treated. Basically, Cherry Eye occurs when the tissue that holds the tear-producing gland in the dog's third eyelid weakens. When this weakening occurs, the gland actually "pops out" and can be seen at the inner corner of the dog's eye (the gland actually looks like a tiny cherry…hence the name!). While not incredibly painful, this condition must be corrected as the tear gland can become extremely irritated and possibly infected. If you believe that your Beagle puppy has Cherry Eye, get out your veterinary pet insurance card and make an appointment to see the veterinarian. Though not an emergency, it is important to get your Beagle pup's eyes examined sooner rather than later.

Routine surgery will most likely be needed in order to correct your Beagle's Cherry Eye condition. During surgery, the veterinarian will "tack" the gland back into its proper position. If all goes well, the surgery should not last long and your pup can go home with you the same day that the surgery is performed (unless, of course, there are complications).

You've heard of puppy Pyoderma….haven't you!? If you are like me, then right about now you are thinking, "Huh?" Puppy Pyoderma is a skin condition in which a puppy develops acne like bumps on the hairless portion of their undercarriage (that's my way of saying abdomen). Puppy Pyoderma is caused by bacteria known as Staphylococcus and is not serious. In order to treat this condition your veterinarian will prescribe a special shampoo and in extreme cases, antibiotics. After a few baths, your puppy's skin problem should disappear and he will once again have baby…or should I say…puppy soft skin!

Chondrodysplasia is very rare…so you probably won't have to worry much about this disease; however, knowledge is power …so pay attention (there will be a quiz at the end). Just kidding. Anyway, Chondrodysplasia is a rare disease that actually keeps a Beagle from growing to its normal size (they stay VERY small). This condition actually keeps a Beagle's bones and spine from developing properly which results in a deformed spine and most likely, deformed legs. Some veterinarians refer to Beagles that are affected by Chondrodysplasia as "dwarf Beagles."

Chondrodysplasia usually becomes apparent when a Beagle is approximately three to four weeks old. Puppies that have this condition usually appear to be in pain and may have trouble walking. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Chondrodysplasia, however medications can be prescribed that will bring much needed pain relief and a some-what normal life. Beagle's that have this condition need to live with an owner who has time for a "special needs" animal and has a LOT of love to give.

As previously mentioned, most Beagle puppies are born healthy and live long, happy lives. They are wonderful, loyal and friendly dogs that love to be part of a family. Though Beagles can develop other conditions (such as doggy skin allergies) as they age, they are basically healthy hounds and overall, GREAT DOGS! Woof!