# Shiba Inu Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings


## Key Takeaways

- Shiba Inus are predisposed to musculoskeletal issues like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, diagnosed via orthopedic examination and radiographs (e.g., OFA, PennHIP), with surgical intervention often required for moderate to severe luxations.
- Ocular conditions, including primary glaucoma (characterized by elevated intraocular pressure measured by tonometry and gonioscopy) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA, diagnosed via ophthalmoscopy and genetic testing), pose significant risks for vision loss.
- Allergic dermatitis (atopy) is prevalent, presenting as pruritus and secondary infections, managed through clinical evaluation, allergy testing, and multimodal therapies including immunotherapy and targeted medications like oclacitinib.
- Hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder resulting from insufficient thyroid hormone production, is identified through blood tests (e.g., T4, TSH) and managed with lifelong levothyroxine supplementation.
- Preventive screenings, including annual veterinary examinations, orthopedic and ophthalmic evaluations, and genetic testing for PRA, are critical for early detection and management of these inherited conditions.

---

The Shiba Inu is a hardy, ancient Japanese breed known for its fox-like appearance, spirited personality, and fastidious grooming habits. While they are generally a robust [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog), the breed carries a distinct set of inherited health predispositions that every owner should understand. This article provides a definitive, source-grounded overview of the most common Shiba Inu health problems, the genetic and anatomical reasons behind them, and the preventive screening protocols recommended by veterinary organizations.

**Owner Triage Summary:** If your Shiba Inu is showing signs of eye discomfort (squinting, excessive tearing), limping that lasts more than a few hours, or sudden, severe allergic skin reactions, contact your veterinarian immediately. For routine wellness, annual veterinary examinations and breed-specific screenings starting at one year of age are the cornerstone of preventive care. Early detection of inherited conditions like patellar luxation or glaucoma can significantly improve your dog's quality of life.

## At a Glance: Common Inherited Conditions in Shiba Inu

The following table summarizes the most frequently diagnosed inherited conditions in the breed. This is a clinical decision-support tool, not a definitive diagnosis list.

| Condition | System Affected | Typical Onset | Key Clinical Sign | Screening Method |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **Patellar Luxation** | Musculoskeletal (Stifle/Knee) | Puppyhood to Adult | Intermittent hopping or skipping on a hind leg | Orthopedic examination, radiographs (X-rays) |
| **Hip Dysplasia** | Musculoskeletal (Hip Joint) | 4 months to Adult | Hind limb lameness, difficulty rising, "bunny hopping" | Orthopedic examination, PennHIP or OFA radiographs |
| **Glaucoma** | Ocular (Eye) | Adult (Middle-age) | Redness, cloudiness, dilated pupil, severe pain | Tonometry (intraocular pressure measurement), gonioscopy |
| **Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)** | Ocular (Retina) | Adult (Variable) | Night blindness, progressing to day blindness | Ophthalmoscopic examination, genetic testing for known mutations |
| **Allergic Dermatitis (Atopy)** | Integumentary (Skin) | 1 to 3 years | Itching, licking [paws](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/paws), recurrent ear infections | Clinical evaluation, allergy testing (intradermal or serologic) |
| **Hypothyroidism** | Endocrine (Thyroid) | Middle-age | Weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, skin infections | Total T4, Free T4 by equilibrium dialysis, canine TSH |

## Understanding the Shiba Inu's Anatomical and Genetic Predispositions

The Shiba Inu's conformation, a product of its history as a hunting dog in mountainous Japanese terrain, influences its health profile. Their compact, muscular build with a curled tail and upright ears is functional but carries specific vulnerabilities.

### The Stifle and Patellar Luxation
The Shiba Inu's hind legs are well-angulated, but like many small to medium breeds, they are prone to **patellar luxation**, a condition where the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove (trochlear sulcus) in the femur. This is often a congenital malformation where the groove is too shallow, allowing the kneecap to dislocate, most commonly towards the inside of the leg (medial luxation). The resulting biomechanical stress can lead to inflammation, pain, and eventual osteoarthritis if left untreated.

### The Eye and Glaucoma
The Shiba Inu's deep-set, triangular eyes are a breed hallmark. However, the breed is over-represented in veterinary ophthalmology for **primary glaucoma**, a condition where the drainage angle of the eye is malformed. This malformation prevents normal aqueous humor outflow, leading to a dangerous increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). This pressure damages the optic nerve and retina, causing pain and irreversible blindness if not treated as an emergency.

### The Skin Barrier and Atopy
The Shiba Inu's double coat, a dense undercoat and a stiff outer coat, is excellent for insulation. However, this coat can trap allergens and moisture against the skin, exacerbating **allergic dermatitis (atopy)**. This condition is an inherited hypersensitivity to environmental allergens like pollens, dust mites, and molds. The skin barrier function is often compromised in atopic dogs, allowing allergens to penetrate more easily and trigger an inflammatory cascade, leading to intense pruritus (itching).

## Common Inherited Health Problems in Detail

### 1. Patellar Luxation (Slipping Kneecap)

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** Patellar luxation is a developmental orthopedic disease. The primary cause is a conformational abnormality of the quadriceps muscle group and the femur, leading to a shallow trochlear groove. When the dog bends its knee, the patella can ride over the ridge of the groove and dislocate. In Shiba Inus, it is typically a medial luxation (the kneecap slips toward the inside of the leg).

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** Owners often report a classic "skipping" gait, where the dog holds up a hind leg for a few steps and then resumes normal walking as the kneecap pops back into place. This can progress to a persistent lameness. Differential diagnoses include hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture, or a muscle strain.

**Risk Factors:** Genetics is the primary risk factor. Overweight dogs are at higher risk for clinical signs due to increased stress on the joint. It can affect one or both knees.

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** A veterinarian will perform a full orthopedic examination, manipulating the stifle joint to assess the degree of luxation. The condition is graded from I (mild, can be manually luxated but reduces spontaneously) to IV (severe, permanently luxated). Radiographs are essential to evaluate the severity of the joint changes, including the depth of the trochlear groove and the presence of arthritis.

**Evidence-Based Management:** Management depends on the grade. Grade I and some Grade II cases are often managed conservatively with weight management, controlled exercise (leash walks, swimming), and joint supplements as recommended by your vet. For Grades II, III, and IV, surgical correction is often the treatment of choice to realign the quadriceps mechanism and deepen the groove. Post-operative physical therapy is critical for a successful outcome.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** Since the condition is inherited, the best prevention is for breeders to screen their breeding stock. In affected dogs, the prognosis is good to excellent with appropriate surgical correction, especially if performed before significant arthritis develops.

### 2. Hip Dysplasia

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** Hip dysplasia is a polygenic inherited condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, resulting in laxity (looseness). This laxity prevents the ball of the femur (femoral head) from fitting snugly into the socket of the pelvis (acetabulum). Over time, this instability causes inflammation, cartilage damage, and progressive osteoarthritis.

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** Signs can appear in puppies as young as 4 months old or may not be apparent until later in life. Common signs include hind-limb lameness, a "bunny hopping" gait, difficulty rising from a lying position, reluctance to jump, and a decreased activity level. These signs can mimic those of patellar luxation, cruciate ligament disease, or lumbosacral disease.

**Risk Factors:** Genetics is the primary driver, but environmental factors such as rapid growth, excessive calorie intake, and high-impact exercise on hard surfaces can exacerbate the development of clinical signs.

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** Diagnosis is confirmed with radiographs. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) provides a standard hip evaluation, but for younger dogs, the PennHIP method, which measures distraction (laxity) index, is more predictive of future arthritis development. A veterinarian may also perform a physical examination, including an Ortolani test, to assess joint laxity.

**Evidence-Based Management:** Management is multimodal. For young dogs with laxity but no arthritis, a conservative approach includes weight control, controlled low-impact exercise, and joint-supportive diets. For dogs with clinical lameness and arthritis, medical management includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (e.g., polysulfated glycosaminoglycans), and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgical options such as a total hip replacement or femoral head ostectomy (FHO) are considered.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** Breeding dogs should be screened and certified free of hip dysplasia. The prognosis is variable. Many dogs live comfortable lives with medical management, while others require surgery. Early diagnosis and proactive management are key to slowing the progression of arthritis.

### 3. Primary Glaucoma

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** Primary glaucoma is a serious, painful, and blinding condition. In Shiba Inus, it is typically caused by an inherited malformation of the iridocorneal angle (the drainage angle in the eye). This malformation, known as goniodysgenesis, blocks the flow of aqueous humor, leading to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The high pressure damages the optic nerve and retina, leading to vision loss.

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Early signs are often subtle and can include squinting (blepharospasm), excessive tearing (epiphora), and a slightly red eye. As pressure rises, the eye becomes painful, the cornea becomes cloudy (edema), the pupil may be fixed and dilated, and the eye may appear enlarged (buphthalmos). Differential diagnoses include uveitis (inflammation inside the eye), conjunctivitis, and corneal ulcers.

**Risk Factors:** The primary risk factor is genetics. The condition can be unilateral initially but often becomes bilateral. Middle-aged to older dogs are most commonly affected.

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** A veterinarian will measure the IOP using a tonometer. A normal IOP is typically between 10 and 25 mmHg. Readings above this, especially with other clinical signs, are diagnostic. A gonioscopy, which uses a special lens to view the drainage angle, can confirm the malformation.

**Evidence-Based Management:** Treatment is an emergency. The goal is to lower IOP rapidly to save vision. Medical management includes topical prostaglandin analogs (e.g., latanoprost), beta-blockers, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Once the pressure is controlled, long-term management may involve a combination of medications. Surgical options, such as laser cyclophotocoagulation or implantation of a drainage device, may be considered to help control IOP long-term. In blind and painful eyes, enucleation (removal of the eye) may be the most humane option.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** There is no cure for glaucoma. Affected dogs should not be bred. The prognosis for vision is guarded; many dogs will lose vision in the affected eye despite aggressive treatment. Early detection and immediate treatment are critical to preserving sight for as long as possible.

### 4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** PRA is a group of inherited diseases that cause degeneration of the photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) in the retina. In Shiba Inus, a specific mutation has been identified. Rods, responsible for night vision, are affected first, followed by cones, which are responsible for day vision and color perception.

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** The earliest sign is night blindness, often noticed as a reluctance to go into dark rooms or bumping into objects in low light. This progresses to a loss of day vision, and eventually, complete blindness. The pupils may become dilated and sluggish to respond to light. A veterinarian can detect changes in the retina during an ophthalmic examination, and a genetic test can confirm the diagnosis. Differential diagnoses include cataracts, glaucoma, and sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS).

**Risk Factors:** The primary risk factor is genetic. It is an autosomal recessive trait in most breeds, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to be affected.

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** Diagnosis is based on a fundic examination (looking at the back of the eye) and confirmed with a DNA test for the specific mutation known in the breed. An electroretinogram (ERG) can also measure the electrical activity of the retina.

**Evidence-Based Management:** There is currently no treatment to stop or reverse PRA. Management focuses on helping the dog adapt to blindness. This includes maintaining a consistent home environment, using scent and sound cues, and providing safe, secure areas. Most dogs adapt remarkably well to blindness, especially if it progresses gradually.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** This is a devastating disease because it is untreatable. Prevention is solely through genetic testing of breeding stock. Dogs that are carriers (have one copy of the gene) should be bred only to clear dogs to avoid producing affected puppies. The prognosis for vision is poor, but the prognosis for a good quality of life is fair to good with appropriate owner support.

### 5. Allergic Dermatitis (Atopy)

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** Atopy, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory, and pruritic skin disease with a strong genetic predisposition. It is an abnormal immune response to common environmental allergens such as pollens, house dust mites, and molds. The immune system overreacts, leading to inflammation and intense itching.

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** The hallmark sign is pruritus (itching), which can be seasonal or non-seasonal. Affected dogs often lick and chew their paws, rub their face, and scratch their flanks and armpits. The skin may appear red, inflamed, and can develop secondary bacterial or yeast infections. Chronic cases may show hyperpigmentation and lichenification (thickening of the skin). Differential diagnoses include flea allergy dermatitis, food allergy, and sarcoptic mange.

**Risk Factors:** Genetics is the main risk factor. The condition typically begins between 1 and 3 years of age. Environmental factors, such as high pollen counts, can trigger flare-ups.

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** Diagnosis is based on history and clinical signs, with the exclusion of other causes of itching. A veterinarian may recommend intradermal allergy testing or a blood test (serologic allergy testing) to identify specific allergens. This is often done to formulate a custom immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) plan.

**Evidence-Based Management:** Management is lifelong and multimodal. It includes:
- **Avoidance:** Reducing exposure to identified allergens (e.g., using air purifiers, washing bedding).
- **Topical Therapy:** Medicated shampoos and conditioners to soothe the skin and remove allergens.
- **Systemic Medications:** Antihistamines, corticosteroids (for short-term flare-ups), and newer, highly effective drugs like oclacitinib (Apoquel) or injectable monoclonal antibodies (e.g., lokivetmab/Cytopoint).
- **Immunotherapy:** Allergy shots or oral drops to desensitize the immune system over time.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** There is no cure for atopy. The goal is to manage the signs and maintain a good quality of life. With a proper management plan, most dogs do well. The condition requires a lifelong commitment from the owner.

### 6. Hypothyroidism

**Causes and Pathophysiology:** Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder caused by the underproduction of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. In most dogs, it is due to immune-mediated destruction of the gland (lymphocytic thyroiditis) or idiopathic atrophy. It is a common endocrinopathy in medium to large breeds, and Shiba Inus are predisposed.

**Clinical Signs and Differential Diagnosis:** Clinical signs are often insidious and include weight gain without an increase in appetite, lethargy, mental dullness, cold intolerance, and a dry, dull coat with excessive shedding and hair loss (alopecia). The skin may become thickened and hyperpigmented, and there is a predisposition to secondary skin and ear infections. Differential diagnoses include other causes of alopecia (e.g., Cushing's disease, sex hormone imbalances) and other causes of lethargy.

**Risk Factors:** The primary risk factor is genetics. It is typically diagnosed in middle-aged dogs (4 to 10 years old).

**Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics:** Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and blood tests. A low total T4 (thyroxine) level, combined with a high canine TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) level, is highly suggestive. For a definitive diagnosis, a free T4 by equilibrium dialysis is often run, as it is considered the most accurate single test.

**Evidence-Based Management:** Treatment involves daily oral administration of synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine). The dose is carefully calculated based on the dog's weight and is adjusted based on follow-up blood tests (typically 4 to 6 hours after the morning dose). With proper treatment, clinical signs usually resolve within a few months.

**Prevention and Prognosis:** Affected dogs should not be bred. The prognosis is excellent with lifelong medication. Most dogs return to a normal, active life.

## The Role of Preventive Screenings

Preventive screenings are the most powerful tool an owner has to manage the inherited health risks of a Shiba Inu. The goal is to detect diseases early, before they cause significant clinical signs, or to identify carriers of genetic diseases for breeding decisions.

### Recommended Screening Protocols for Shiba Inu

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) wellness guidelines, preventive care is a cornerstone of veterinary medicine. For the Shiba Inu, the following screenings are recommended:

- **Annual Wellness Examinations:** Every dog should have a comprehensive physical examination at least once a year. For senior dogs (over 7 years), twice-yearly exams are often recommended. This is the foundation of all preventive care.

- **Orthopedic Screenings:** For breeding dogs, radiographs of the hips (OFA or PennHIP) and knees (OFA) are essential. For pet dogs, a thorough orthopedic exam during the annual wellness visit can catch early signs of patellar luxation or hip dysplasia.

- **Ophthalmic Screenings:** A veterinary ophthalmologist should perform a complete eye examination, including gonioscopy to evaluate the drainage angle, to screen for primary glaucoma. The Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) provides a registry for dogs that have been examined and found free of hereditary eye disease. Genetic testing for PRA is also recommended for all Shiba Inus, especially those intended for breeding.

- **Dermatological Evaluation:** While there is no specific screening test for atopy, a thorough skin and coat evaluation during the annual exam is important, especially for identifying early signs of allergies.

- **Endocrine Testing:** A baseline blood panel, including thyroid hormone levels, is recommended for adult dogs, especially if they are showing any signs of hypothyroidism. This is often part of a senior wellness panel.

### The Importance of Breeding Screening

The most effective way to reduce the incidence of inherited diseases in Shiba Inus is through responsible breeding. Breeders should screen their dogs for all known inherited conditions before breeding. This includes:
- OFA or PennHIP certification for hips.
- OFA certification for patellas.
- CERF examination and genetic testing for PRA.
- Thyroid testing.

By breeding only clear dogs, breeders can significantly reduce the risk of producing affected puppies.

## Comparative Regional Considerations

While the genetic predispositions of the Shiba Inu are global, the prevalence and management of certain conditions can vary by region.

- **North America (US & Canada):** In North America, the focus is on routine screening as recommended by the AVMA and AAHA. Seasonal allergies (atopy) are a common concern, with pollen seasons varying significantly between regions. The CVMA in Canada aligns closely with AAHA guidelines.

- **Europe (EU/UK):** In Europe, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) emphasizes preventive care and responsible breeding. The European standard for hip and elbow scoring is often the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) system, which is different from the OFA system in North America. Eye screening schemes are also common.

- **Australia:** The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) promotes similar preventive health strategies. Due to Australia's strict biosecurity laws (administered by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, DAFF), the country is free of many external parasites, which can influence the prevalence of certain tick-borne diseases. However, atopy from local pollens is a significant concern.

## Unsafe Home Remedies and What to Avoid

When dealing with a sick Shiba Inu, it is crucial to avoid unsafe home remedies that can cause more harm than good.

- **Human Medications:** Never give your dog human medications, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen, without veterinary approval. These can be toxic and cause severe gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney failure. Even acetaminophen (paracetamol) is highly toxic to dogs.
- **Essential Oils:** Many essential oils are toxic to dogs, especially when applied to the skin or ingested. They can cause skin irritation, neurological signs, and liver damage. Always consult a veterinarian before using any topical product.
- **"One Pill" Dewormers:** Do not use over-the-counter dewormers without a proper diagnosis. They may not be effective for the specific parasite your dog has and can be toxic in incorrect doses.
- **Inducing Vomiting:** Do not induce vomiting without direct instruction from a veterinarian or poison control center. Some substances cause more damage when vomited back up.
- **Home "Eye Drops":** Do not use any eye drops without a diagnosis. For example, using a redness-reliever drop for a dog with glaucoma can be dangerous.

## Prognosis and Long-Term Management

The prognosis for a Shiba Inu with an inherited condition varies widely depending on the specific disease and the timing of intervention.

- **Patellar Luxation:** With surgical correction, the prognosis is generally excellent. Dogs can return to normal activity.
- **Hip Dysplasia:** The prognosis is fair to good with a comprehensive management plan. Many dogs live comfortable, active lives with medical management and physical therapy.
- **Glaucoma:** The prognosis for vision is poor in the long term, but with prompt and aggressive treatment, vision can be preserved for a period. The goal is pain control and maintaining a good quality of life.
- **PRA:** The prognosis for vision is poor, but the prognosis for quality of life is good with proper owner adaptation.
- **Atopy:** The prognosis is good with a lifelong management plan. It is a chronic condition that requires commitment.
- **Hypothyroidism:** The prognosis is excellent with daily medication.

Long-term management for any of these conditions requires a strong partnership between the owner and the veterinarian. Regular rechecks, medication adjustments, and lifestyle modifications are essential.

## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the health problems common in Shiba Inus. However, it is crucial to understand the limitations of breed-level information.

**Breed-level information cannot predict the health of an individual dog.** A Shiba Inu may be free of all these conditions, or it may develop a condition not listed here. This information is not a substitute for professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Every dog is an individual, and their health status is determined by a complex interaction of genetics, environment, and lifestyle.

**When to Contact a Veterinarian:**
You should contact your veterinarian immediately if your Shiba Inu exhibits any of the following emergency red flags:

- **Eye Issues:** Sudden squinting, redness, cloudiness, or a dilated pupil. This could indicate glaucoma, a painful emergency.
- **Orthopedic Issues:** Sudden inability to walk, severe lameness, or dragging a limb.
- **Gastrointestinal Issues:** Repeated vomiting, diarrhea (or diarrhoea) with blood, or signs of a bloated abdomen (which can be a sign of GDV, though less common in this breed).
- **Neurological Issues:** Seizures, head tilt, stumbling, or collapse.
- **Respiratory Issues:** Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or blue-tinged gums.
- **Skin Issues:** Sudden onset of severe itching, hives, or facial swelling, which could indicate an allergic reaction.

Always err on the side of caution. Your veterinarian is your best resource for the health and well-being of your Shiba Inu.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. What is the most common health problem in Shiba Inus?
The most common inherited health problems in Shiba Inus are patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) and allergic dermatitis (atopy). Both are very frequently diagnosed in the breed.

### 2. Are Shiba Inus prone to eye problems?
Yes, Shiba Inus are genetically predisposed to two significant eye conditions: primary glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Both can lead to blindness, making regular ophthalmic screenings essential.

### 3. How is patellar luxation treated in a Shiba Inu?
Treatment depends on the severity (grade). Mild cases (Grade I) may only require weight management and controlled exercise. More severe cases (Grades II, III, IV) typically require surgery to realign the kneecap and prevent arthritis.

### 4. What are the early signs of glaucoma in a dog?
Early signs of glaucoma are subtle and include squinting, excessive tearing (epiphora), and a slightly red eye. As the pressure increases, the cornea becomes cloudy, and the dog shows signs of severe pain. This is a medical emergency.

### 5. Can I get my Shiba Inu tested for genetic diseases before buying?
Yes, you should ask the breeder for proof of health screenings for the parents. This should include OFA or PennHIP hip certifications, OFA patella certifications, a current CERF eye exam, and a DNA test for PRA.

### 6. Is it common for Shiba Inus to have allergies?
Yes, atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies) is very common in the breed. It often manifests as itchy skin, paw licking, and recurrent ear infections, typically starting between 1 and 3 years of age.

### 7. What is the life expectancy of a Shiba Inu?
The average life expectancy for a Shiba Inu is 13 to 16 years. They are generally a long-lived breed, but inherited conditions can impact their quality of life in their senior years.

### 8. What should I feed a Shiba Inu with hip dysplasia?
There is no single "best" diet, but a diet formulated for joint health, often containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, can be beneficial. The most important factor is maintaining a lean body weight to reduce stress on the joints. Always discuss diet changes with your veterinarian.

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