K&H Havanese Dogs and Puppies

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Although the Havanese is generally a sturdy, healthy little dog, we are beginning to see more health issues in the breed. These include, but are not limited to, cataracts, deafness, orthopedic anomalies, liver and heart problems. For more detailed information on the health issues, visit the Havanese Health section of the Havanese of America website.

Cataracts
In May 1999, several members of the Havanese Club of America founded HEART, Havanese Eye Angels Research Team, and the Club began working with Dr. Gelatt, a reknowned veterinary researcher from the University of Florida, to determine the mode of inheritance and to develop a DNA test to identify cataracts.

This study has been made possible due to the dedication of many Havanese breeders and owners who love this breed, and are willing to openly share information that will help eradicate this health problem.

To check for cataracts, your Havanese must have his/her eyes examined annually by a veterinary ophthalmologhist, and the results sent into CERF (Canine Eye Research Foundation). CERF issues the dog a number that is good for one year. It is important when considering buying a Havanese puppy, to ask the breeder for a current CERF number for both parents.

To learn more about CERF and what they do, click on the link below to visit their site.

Deafness
Although not now widespread, some unilateral (one-side) and bilateral (complete) deafness has been found in Havanese. Puppies can be tested as young as six weeks by a veterinary neurologist, that will definitively diagnose or rule out genetic deafness.

Testing is not painful for the puppy, and can generally be done without anesthesia in less than five minutes.

Orthopedic Anomalies

Chrondrodysplasia
Sometimes referred to as "dwarfism', it refers to early closure of the growth plates, and can cause short and/or bowed legs. It can affect either leg or both.

Luxating Patellas
As with many toy breeds, luxating patellas, also known as "slipped kneecaps," can be a problem, and puppies should be checked by a veterinarian before going to their prospective homes.

Hip and Elbow Displasia
Although hip and elbow displaysia is not as common in toy breeds as in larger breeds, it is present. Screening breeding animals for both HD and ED has proven to reduce the incidence tremendously in many breeds. To find out more about HD, ED, patellar luxation, as well as other genetic testing, visit OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Inc.)

Also visit Canine Health Foundation - a nonprofit organization striving for genetic health in all dogs.

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