Some dog breeds more sensitive to cigarette smoke

Fort Collins, Colo.

-- Smokers may want to think twice before lighting up in front of their dogs, particularly if the dogs belong to certain breeds that contract diseases more easily than others.

Secondhand smoke can trigger a variety of diseases in dogs, with a higher likelihood in certain breedsm, according to Dr. John Reif, professor at the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. For example, short-nosed breeds like pugs and pit bulls were twice as likely to contract lung cancer. Longer-nosed breeds like collies and German shepherds were two-and-a-half times more likely to get nasal cancer. Cocker spaniels, boxers, and retrievers are more prone to lymphoma than other breeds.

Dr. Reif revealed his findings on an American Veterinary Medical Association podcast.