Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience, but it’s also a time for important decisions that can impact your dog’s health for life. One of the most common questions I hear as a holistic veterinarian is: How can I avoid puppy health problems and set my dog up for a long, happy life?

While nutrition and timing of desexing matter (we’ll cover those in upcoming posts), this guide focuses on the foundation: genetics and breeder selection. If you want to avoid inherited diseases in puppies, pick a healthy puppy, and ensure your new family member thrives, read on.

Understanding Genetic Health Issues in Puppies

Genetic health problems in dogs are conditions passed down from parents to puppies. These inherited diseases can range from hip dysplasia and heart disease to spinal issues like IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) and more. Every breed—purebred or crossbred—has its own list of potential risks. The good news? Many of these problems can be avoided or reduced with the right breeder and proper health screening.

Purebred vs Crossbred: Myths and Realities

You might have heard that crossbreeds (“hybrid vigour”) are always healthier. While mixing breeds can sometimes reduce certain risks, crossbred puppies can still inherit genetic disorders if both parents carry problem genes. Responsible breeders—regardless of breed—should always perform health checks and genetic testing.

Breed-Specific Health Risks: What You Need to Know

Before choosing a puppy, research the common health problems in [your breed]. Here are examples for some popular breeds:

• Golden Retrievers: 

Hip Dysplasia- (Hip joints are not formed correctly leading to arthritis and pain very early in life)

Elbow dysplasia - (Elbow joints are not formed correctly leading to arthritis and pain very early in life)

• Dachshunds (Sausage Dogs): 

Intevertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) - Spinal Problems commonly causing spinal injuries in the future.

Pars Varus (deformed hind legs), 

luxating patellas (dislocating knee caps)

• German Shepherds: 

Hip/elbow dysplasia (joints aren’t formed correctly leading to arthritis and pain very early in life), 

spinal arthritis (spondylosis)

degenerative myelopathy

• Cavaliers: 

Hip dysplasia

IVDD

heart problems

luxating patellas

syringomyelia

• Cavoodles: 

Hip dysplasia 

Dislocating shoulders

IVDD (Intevertebral Disc Disease)

Legg-Calvé-Perthes (hip joint dissolves at the age of 6 months)

Luxating patellas

Heart problems

• French Bulldogs: 

Hip/elbow dysplasia

IVDD

Hemivertebrae

Breathing disorders

Skin allergies

Luxating patellas

Every breed has something to watch for. A quick Google search - “[breed name] common health problems” - can save you years of heartbreak. 

There are NO PERFECT breeds that have absolutely no problems. However, some breeds have more health issues than others. For instance, French Bulldogs have some of the highest numbers of health issues that can be very serious and cause life threatening problems. Seriously, if you are considering getting a French Bulldog to be part of the family, be very careful which breeder you choose.

How to Find a Responsible Dog Breeder

Finding a reputable dog breeder is the single most effective way to avoid puppy health problems. Here’s what to look for:

• Health Testing: Ask if both parents have been screened for inherited diseases (e.g., hip/elbow scoring, DNA tests for breed-specific conditions).

• Parent Health History: Reputable breeders will share detailed health records for both parents.

• Focus on Temperament and Structure: Good breeders select for sound bodies and stable temperaments, not just looks, or ‘special’ coat colours

• Transparency: A responsible breeder welcomes your questions and provides documentation. 

Questions to Ask a Dog Breeder Before Buying a Puppy

• What health checks have been performed on the parents?

• Can I see the results of these tests?

• Are there any known genetic diseases in the parents’ lines?

• Have the puppies been examined by a vet?

• What support do you offer after the puppy goes home?

If a breeder dodges these questions or can’t provide proof - walk away. 

A common line I hear that dodgy breeders will use is: “My Dog’s don’t have those issues in the lines, so I don’t check for them”. If they are not checking for any problems, how do they know if they have genetic issues in their breeding dogs??

Red Flags: Why You Should Avoid Pet Store Puppies

Pet store puppies rarely come from breeders who do proper health checks. Without genetic screening, you’re at higher risk for inherited diseases, behavioural issues (anxiety or aggression problems), and heartbreak down the track. Always insist on meeting the breeder and seeing where the puppies are raised.

The Truth About Hybrid Vigour

Crossbreeds (Including Cavoodles, spoodles, groodles, labradoodles) can still inherit health problems if breeders aren’t careful. Ask for health checks and documentation for both parents—regardless of breed or mix.

Practical Steps for Picking a Healthy Puppy

1. Research breed health risks (Google: “[breed] common health problems”).

2. Make a list of key genetic issues.

3. Ask breeders for health testing results and parent health history.

4. Visit the breeder to see puppy conditions and meet the parents.

5. Never buy from pet stores or breeders who can’t answer your questions.

FAQ: Puppy Health Checks & Breeder Selection

Q: What health checks should a puppy have before coming home?
A: At minimum, a vet check, vaccination, and documentation of parental genetic testing for breed-specific issues. If its breed that can have genetic spinal problems (such as French Bulldogs, British bulldogs, Dachshunds and Corgi's) Xrays of the parents spine are also part of the proper health checks)

Q: Is it safer to buy a crossbreed puppy?
A: Not always. Crossbreeds can still inherit genetic diseases. Regardless of whether you're getting a purebred or cross breed (yes, a Cavoodle is still a cross breed) Always check for health testing.

Q: How do I know if a breeder is reputable?
A: They offer full transparency, health documentation, and encourage your questions.

Conclusion: Give Your Puppy the Best Start

Choosing the right breeder is the first step to avoiding puppy health problems and ensuring a long, happy life for your new companion. If you have questions about breed-specific health risks or want advice on what to ask a breeder, write in the comments section below and Neil will answer your questions.