You’re about to embark on the journey that’s choosing a furry, four-legged friend (floppy ears, wagging tail, and a new best friend included). Whether you’re going the rescue or brand-new puppy route, these things are certain: all dogs are cute, they need to be loved, and you can’t go wrong in your decision.

While picking the “right” dog comes down to what you’re looking for in a pet, it’s important to know the possible health problems associated with certain breeds. Not everyone wants to deal with these potential issues and some people just want to be informed so they know the risks and how to avoid them.

Every dog deserves a loving owner and a good home. While we love all of these dogs and will continue to sing their praises, it’s important to note that these five dog breeds most often tend to have health problems.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are, unfortunately, candidates for many health problems including ear infections, conjunctivitis, and breathing issues. Their flat faces and shorter snouts might look cute, but this breeding practice has led to the problems above, and they aren’t the only health concerns surrounding them.

Basset Hound

This four-legged foe’s droopy eyes and long ears can put a smile on anyone’s face, but these same cute features are leading to health issues relating to ear infections and eye inflammation (as well as glaucoma) among this breed. While absolutely adorable, the Basset Hound has also been linked to joint pain and hip dysplasia because of their shortened legs. The many features that we love about the Basset Hound are resulting in health issues.

Bulldog

Similar to the breeds above, the Bulldog’s cutest features (a flat face, big head, and grumpy, mouth) tend to bring on common problems among this breed. Breathing issues, eye inflammation, hip dysplasia, and joint problems are just some of the issues that are linked with the Bulldog.

Shar-Pei

Another breed in which their most sought-after features lead to health problems, the Shar-Pei’s heavily folded skin makes them prone to many issues. the most common of those deal with their skin and eyes. Rolled-in eyelids, which tend to require surgery, are also common. Shar-Pei fever is another condition seen in this breed, resulting in recurring fever and swelling of the hocks (back of the leg). This dog is adorable because of the way it’s bred, but the way it’s bred is why Shar-Peis have health concerns.

Labrador Retriever

Arguably America’s favorite dog and the true definition of man’s best friend, the Labrador Retriever brings pure joy, love, and affection into every home it enters. Although one of the smartest dog breeds, this prized family dog can suffer from hip and elbow problems, especially if overweight and under-exercised.

What’s Next

Stealing our heart’s and adding value to our lives, choosing to adopt a dog is a loving decision that should be made with all the facts available. When adopting a dog it is essential to learn as much information as possible. You can begin by asking your veterinarian limitless questions to ensure your puppy is fed, exercised, and taken care of properly. Adopting a dog is a big—yet, rewarding decision.

Just because the breeds above are commonly linked to health problems, it doesn’t mean every single dog in the breed will have problems. Likewise, it doesn’t mean dog breeds that aren’t mentioned above won’t have health problems, making the question of “which dogs have health problems?” a complicated one to answer. After all, breeds such as Pugs, Rottweilers, Saint Bernards, German Shepherds, and many others are linked to certain health concerns as well.

Unfortunately, many dogs deal with health problems as a result of the way they are bred. There are measures owners can take to prevent pet illness while keeping their dogs healthy year-round with healthy food, playtime, and routine vet visits. Plenty of walks and unlimited love are also welcomed by these four-legged creatures.