15 Dogs With Unusual Health Issues

Dogs are fantastic, but let’s be honest—some come with peculiar health problems. Have you ever heard of a dog whose spine is too long for its sound? Or one that snores louder than a freight train? Check out these pups that have some of the strangest medical conditions ever.

Bulldog

As cute as they are, Bulldogs often can’t give birth naturally. Their large heads and narrow birth canals mean most require C-sections. Without medical intervention, delivering puppies could be life-threatening for both the mother and her litter.

Bedlington Terrier

This breed has a rare issue—Copper Storage Disease. Their bodies accumulate too much copper, which leads to liver toxicity. Without careful dietary management, it can become fatal, making routine vet check-ups a must.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These minor royals have a brain that’s sometimes too big for their skull. Chiari-like malformation can cause severe pain and neurological issues. It’s as if their heads are packed too tightly, which leads to discomfort that only careful monitoring and treatment can ease.

Dachshund

Their long backs make Dachshunds prone to spinal disc ruptures, also known as Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). One wrong jump or movement can rupture a disc, which can cause pain or even paralysis. Owners must be extra careful to prevent injury.

Chihuahua

Did you know Chihuahuas have a molera—a soft spot on their skull, just like human babies? While it often closes over time, some keep it for life, making even a tiny bump a big deal. Their delicate heads require extra care, so gentle handling is a must!

Boxer

Seizures in Boxers are unpredictable, and they’re linked to unusual brain anomalies. These neurological disturbances can be alarming and often require medical intervention to keep them under control. Owners need to monitor their pets closely, as managing this condition involves a mix of medication and lifestyle adjustments.

Great Dane

Great Danes’ deep chests put them at risk for bloat, a severe condition where the stomach twists and blocks blood flow. Symptoms like restlessness, a swollen belly, and rapid breathing can appear quickly. This can turn deadly within hours, often requiring urgent surgery to prevent a fatal outcome.

Pug

Reverse sneezing fits are a common oddity in Pugs—sudden, loud snorting episodes triggered by throat irritation. While they look dramatic, these spasms usually resolve quickly. However, if they happen frequently, they might signal an underlying respiratory issue.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers suffer from Comedo Syndrome, which causes back acne. Their skin develops small, blackhead-like bumps along the spine, which can become irritated or infected. While not life-threatening, this condition requires regular grooming and skincare to keep their coats healthy.

Scottish Terrier

Have you ever seen a dog cramp up from excitement? Scottish Terriers suffer from Scotty Cramp, a condition where their muscles stiffen when overstimulated. It’s not fatal, but it can be distressing and can make them look like they’re malfunctioning.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are tiny, furry drama queens when it comes to their eyes. Proptosis (where their eyeball pops out—yes, really) and keratitis (cornea inflammation) are just some of their issues. Regular grooming and eye checks keep those big, soulful eyes from becoming a full-blown medical emergency.

Chinese Crested

Keeping a dog’s skin healthy is usually as simple as a bath and a good diet—but not for the Chinese Crested. These nearly hairless pups have ultra-sensitive skin and often struggle with missing teeth. They’re prone to sunburn and irritation without sunscreen and extra care.

Cocker Spaniel

Long, floppy ears might be cute, but for Cocker Spaniels, they’re bacteria hotels. Their ears trap moisture, leading to constant infections. If you own one, be prepared to clean their ears religiously or deal with a never-ending cycle of vet visits.

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds, known for their striking looks, are extremely sensitive to anesthesia. While other breeds handle standard doses just fine, what’s routine for them can be dangerously potent for these dogs. This makes surgical procedures and even minor medical interventions complex for veterinarians.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

These regal dogs can be born with dermoid sinus, a weird condition with tunnel-like defects forming along their spine. Left untreated, it can cause painful infections. Surgery is often the only fix, which makes early detection important in keeping this tough breed healthy.