I’m a vet student & there are 5 dog breeds I’d never own – they will cost you loads, cuteness isn’t everything
THEY may be adorable - but according to one veterinary expert, these five popular dog breeds will cost you a fortune to look after.
When it comes to choosing your furry four-legged friend, there are a number of aspects to consider - whether the dog will fit your lifestyle, how active they are, can you afford the healthcare, just to name a few.
However, many of us also tend to choose our pick based on how cute some breeds are - and if this is something that's important to you, then best keep reading, as one pro has some bad news.
Taking to TikTok, one veterinary student, Alicia, listed to popular breeds she'd never own due to their long list of general health conditions that often affect them.
''Cuteness is obviously not a factor!''
Chow Chow
The first common breed the expert named was Chow Chow.
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Looking like an adorable teddy bear, the Chow Chow is said to protect your home no at a moment's notice.
However, as cute yet dignified they may look, this popular breed also comes with a string of health-related issues that will cost the owner hundreds.
These, Walkin' Pets reported, include hip dysplasia, joint pain, eye issues, diabetes and even allergies that will make their skin go itchy.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
According to Peta, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is amongst the unhealthiest dog breeds in the world.
In fact, they've been deemed to suffer from so many health problems that the Oslo District Court banned the breeding of Cavaliers in Norway altogether.
It's been said that the adorable breed is prone to hearing and vision impairments, they're predisposed to heart conditions and that the cure spaniel is also bred to have a skull that's too small for their brain.
Boxer
Unfortunately, even this breed - yet another popular choice for many - is prone to a long list of health issues affecting them.
As explained by Animal Friends, cancer is the most common health issue, reaching close to a whopping 40% of causes of deaths in Boxers according to the UK Kennel Club.
The breed - which is often also said to deal with mast cell tumours - is predisposed to a series of potentially life-threatening heart conditions, such as Boxer Cardiomyopathy.
The experts warned that this condition can result in episodes of weakness, fainting and sudden cardiac death.
Not fatal but still worrying issues include bone and joint problems, as well as excessive drooling or panting.
Pugs
They may be some of the most adorable four-legged friends ever, but unfortunately pugs, too, can cost their owners quite the vet bill.
Forbes stated that amongst the most commonly reported issues for pugs are Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, cancer, hip dysplasia, as well as corneal ulcers and dry eye.
Corneal ulcers are often painful for dogs, so you may witness them squinting, rubbing the eyes, blinking repeatedly or keeping their eyes shut to minimise the discomfort.
Frenchie
Been thinking of getting a Frenchie? You're not alone, as in 2022, the French Bulldog surpassed the Labrador Retriever as the most popular dog breed in the USA.
But while their short, stocky stature and sweet face make Frenchies beyond adorable, they don’t come without drawbacks.
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Common health-related issues to be aware of include sensitive skin, rashes, hair loss, as well as ear infections, Pet MD warned.
French Bulldogs are also predisposed to heatstroke, so it’s key to keep them inside on very hot and/or humid days.
