Most breeds of pedigree dog have one or more genetically inherited issues.  Many mongrels and crossbreeds will also suffer genetic conditions passed on by their parents. First-cross mixed breeds can potentially have extra problems since they may well carry the breed specific genes from both parents. Of the non-genetic, cancer is now one of the biggest killers of dogs, with heart disease a close second.

Issue affecting (but by no means exclusive to) cavaliers are:

MVD – Mitral Valve Disease (Heart)

MRD – Multifocal Retinal dysplasia (eyes)

CM/SM – Chari Malformation/Syringomyelia (Brain/spinal syrinx issue)

Kennel Club Assured Breeders, along with other breeders committed to improving health, will aim to make their breeding decisions based on the results of the recommended tests, tempered with a dash of experience and at least a smidgen of common sense.

For further reading on Cavalier Health please visit The Kennel Club website, or The Cavalier Club site.

Little Miss was just a pup here on Bill Knight's knee but is now 12 and still going strong, a testament to good healthy lines.

 

 

Best Veteran and Best Vintage - still enjoying showing in their old age, Buttons is 10.

Cecily, the dog carer.  She made her owners last months with a brain tumour bearable.