Should I get a new puppy from the same breeder after health issues?

Question

Hi - my 8 1/2 year old Westie died after going septic from hole in intestine most likely due to lymphoma. She also had 2 TPLO's. Finally considering getting a new pup and wanted to know if going to same breeder is a good idea, bad, doesn't matter etc. Breeder is long time breeder and reputable and says has not heard of other issues. Different sires have been brought in over the past 9 years . My surgeon said ACL's in smaller dogs is not common and could be genetic. Any advice? Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Female | spayed | 17.2 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

This sounds like you’ve had a lot of medical problems with your last dog. Cruciate disease in small dogs is uncommon. I see it more with ones that also have luxating patellas. Luxating patellas are often genetically passed on so if that is common with her dogs then I would go to another breeder. I expect that isn’t the case. Very active dogs that jump a lot up and down on their hind legs and make fast twisting movements are more prone to tearing the cruciate ligaments. Lymphoma is also uncommon in Westies so again I don’t think I would change breeders due to that in your dog. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

Should I get a new puppy from the same breeder after health issues?

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