10 Pet Breeds That Tend to Hide Chronic Health Problems in Plain Sight

Thrive Pet Healthcare names five dog breeds and five cat breeds to watch for joint pain, kidney disease and chronic itch

AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- If your dog or cat could talk, they'd tell you when something hurts. Until then, it's important for pet owners to keep an eye on any subtle changes in their dog or cat's routine that might signal chronic health conditions.  

"Chronic conditions don't respect age or pedigree," said Dr. Kelly Cairns, VP of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare. "Any dog or cat can be affected, but some breeds carry a higher risk because of genetics, body shape or inherited traits."

Thrive Pet Healthcare has compiled a list of five dog and five cat breeds that are at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis, kidney disease or chronic itch. These lists are a starting point for conversations with your veterinarian.

Dog Breeds to Watch

Labrador Retriever – chronic itch + osteoarthritis
Big, athletic bodies stress hips and elbows over time; many Labs also have year-round skin allergies (licking, scratching, hot spots or repeat ear infections).

Golden Retriever – chronic itch + osteoarthritis
Similar joint wear to Labs from size and activity; common environmental allergies show up as red skin, paw chewing and ear problems.

German Shepherd – chronic itch + osteoarthritis
Elbow, hip and back issues can slow walks and make stairs harder; skin allergies may look like face rubbing, red belly and head shaking.

Shih Tzu – chronic itch + kidney disease
Skin folds trap moisture and irritants, feeding itch and ear trouble; some dogs are born with kidneys that don't form normally.

Yorkshire Terrier – chronic itch + kidney disease
Delicate skin and tiny ear canals make itching and ear infections recur; Yorkie seniors may show signs of early kidney changes on routine bloodwork.

"Dogs and cats are great at hiding pain, especially from chronic diseases like osteoarthritis," said Dr. Christine Jurek, Medical Director of Thrive Pet Healthcare partner TOPS Veterinary Rehabilitation in Grayslake, Illinois. "Keeping body condition lean, exercising in moderation, and regular screening at veterinary visits can help prevent disease or slow progression and keep pets healthy well into their senior years."

French Bulldog – (Honorable Mention) chronic itch

"Chronic itch is one of the most common health problems facing French bulldogs, America's most popular dog breed," said Dr. Anthea Schick, Veterinary Dermatologist and Senior National Specialty Director of Dermatology at Thrive Pet Healthcare. "Itch often signals underlying allergic skin disease, which can significantly impact a dog's comfort and quality of life. Fortunately, modern therapies now allow veterinarians to provide fast, lasting relief through safe, targeted treatments that block the itch at its source—helping pets and their families enjoy healthier, happier lives."

Cat Breeds to Watch

Scottish Fold – osteoarthritis + kidney disease
The ear-fold gene also affects cartilage in legs and tail, so painful arthritis can start young; kidney cysts or inherited changes have been reported in the breed.

Persian – osteoarthritis + kidney disease
Persians and related cats are known for kidney cysts; heavier bodies and short legs can mean hip problems that can lead to arthritis.

Siamese – chronic itch (often food-related) + kidney disease + osteoarthritis
Food sensitivities can cause over-grooming and skin sores; listed in kidney-disease risk summaries; kneecap issues can set the stage for arthritis.

Abyssinian – chronic itch + kidney disease + osteoarthritis
Over-represented in allergy cases with face and neck scratching; kidney disease has been linked to amyloid buildup in the kidneys; knee issues can progress to arthritis.

Maine Coon – osteoarthritis + kidney disease
Large frames stress hips; hip dysplasia is common; kidney cysts and chronic kidney disease are also reported.

"Whether you've got an Abyssinian, a Domestic Short Hair, or anything in between, chronic kidney disease doesn't play favorites," said Dr. Cairns. "This condition sneaks up on cats, often showing no signs until their kidneys have already lost significant function. That's why routine diagnostic testing is more than a box to check. It can help us catch chronic kidney disease early and keep more cats living longer, healthier lives."

What Pet Owners Can Do Today

• Watch for change. Slower on stairs, stiff first steps, new hiding, missing the litter box or increased drinking and urination, scratching or licking that doesn't stop.
• Take short videos. Film your pet on the stairs or when they get up after resting. Share those clips with your veterinarian.
• Schedule an exam. Ask about simple blood and urine tests for kidney screening, and a hands-on physical examination, including orthopedic evaluation.
• Ask about relief. Treatment plans for itch, arthritis and kidney disease can include medications, dietary changes, home modifications, and rehabilitation exercises.

Limited-time Offers at Participating Thrive Pet Healthcare Primary Care Hospitals

• Through Oct. 31: Buy 2 doses of Cytopoint®, get $25 off*
• October 1 through Nov. 30: Buy 2 doses of Librela® (dogs) or Solensia® (cats), get $25 off*

To make pet healthcare more accessible and affordable, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers the Thrive Plus™ membership program at 185 of its primary care hospitals across the country.** Member pets receive unlimited free exams, $5 basic nail trims, and 10% off services like bloodwork, dental cleanings and spay/neuter, making it easier to stay on top of health concerns before they become serious.***

To find a location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent, and emergency care, as well as participating Thrive Plus hospitals, visit thrivepetcare.com.

* Cyptopoint offer valid 9/1 to 10/31/25. Librela and Solensia offer valid 10/1 to 11/30/25. Must be administered in-hospital. Cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts except for Thrive Plus member discounts and other related offers and promotions. Discount applies to Librela, Solensia, and Cytopoint only. Availability of products may vary. While supplies last. The offer does not include the cost of additional services, such as exams or diagnostic tests, that may be needed to fulfill a prescription. See IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION at LibrelaPI.com and SolensiaPI.com.
** Twelve-month commitment required. Terms apply.
*** Clinic fees may apply. Basic/entry-level trims only. See full terms for excluded services.

About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and over 360 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet's life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com. 

SOURCE Thrive Pet Healthcare