5 Most Common Bloodhound Health Concerns

When off duty, Bloodhounds are loyal, gentle giants who make wonderful family pets. Weighing between 80 to 110 pounds, they are affectionate, love spending time with their human pack, and are great with children. However, like any breed, Bloodhounds come with specific health challenges that every potential owner should be aware of.

If you’re considering adopting a Bloodhound, it’s essential to understand the most common health issues associated with this breed. Below, we’ll discuss the 5 most common Bloodhound health concerns and offer guidance on how to address them.

1. Kneecap Dislocation in Bloodhounds

One of the most common Bloodhound health issues is patellar luxation, or the dislocation of the kneecap. This condition occurs when the patella (kneecap) doesn’t sit properly in the groove of the femur, causing it to slip in and out of place. While this can happen in any dog breed, the Bloodhound’s size and structure make them more susceptible to joint problems, especially in the knees. The genetics of the breed also play a significant role in this condition, as patellar luxation can be hereditary.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Lameness or limping on one leg, especially after exercise
• Difficulty jumping, running, or climbing stairs
• In severe cases, your dog might hold the affected leg up or be unable to put weight on it

This condition can develop in Bloodhounds as early as 6 to 12 months, though symptoms may not appear until later in life, particularly after heavy physical exertion or as the dog matures.

While some dogs can live with luxating patellas without much trouble, more severe cases require veterinary intervention. A veterinarian may recommend pain management strategies, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in some cases, surgery to realign the patella and prevent further damage. Physical therapy may also be beneficial in helping your Bloodhound regain strength in its leg.

Prevention and Care Tips:

• Regularly check your dog’s mobility, especially after they have been physically active.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce excess pressure on joints.
• Avoid jumping on hard surfaces or overexertion, which can exacerbate the condition.

2. Bloat: A Dangerous Emergency for Bloodhounds

Bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a severe, potentially fatal condition that is most common in large and deep-chested breeds, such as Bloodhounds. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and twists on itself, blocking blood flow to vital organs and causing tissue damage. It can develop rapidly and requires immediate veterinary care.

The deep-chested anatomy of these dogs increases the space for gas buildup, which makes them more prone to this condition compared to more compact breeds.

Symptoms of Bloat:

• A visibly distended or swollen abdomen
• Excessive salivation, panting, or restlessness
• Attempting to vomit but being unable to do so
• Rapid breathing or signs of pain

While bloat can affect dogs of all ages, it’s more common in Bloodhounds between 3 and 7 years old, particularly those that have already experienced some form of gastric upset or who are overly active after meals.

If you notice any of these symptoms, time is of the essence. Immediate action can save your dog’s life. Your veterinarian may need to relieve the pressure in the stomach and untwist the organ to restore proper function. Bloat requires emergency surgery, so don’t wait to seek help.

Prevention Tips:

• Feed smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals to reduce the risk of bloating.
• Avoid vigorous exercise right after meals, as this can increase the likelihood of bloat.
• If your dog is at higher risk, consult your vet about preventative surgery (Gastric Tacking) to secure the stomach in place.

3. Eye Health Concerns in Bloodhounds

Persistent pupillary membranes (PPM) is a hereditary condition where a dog’s eye fails to fully develop during their early stages of life. The membrane that connects the iris to the lens of the eye doesn’t detach properly, leaving small strands of tissue behind. While PPM doesn’t typically cause significant problems for most dogs, it can lead to vision issues and malfunctions if left untreated. PPM is generally noticed in puppies, usually between 6 weeks and 6 months of age. 

What You Need to Know About PPM:

1. PPM is typically diagnosed through a veterinary eye examination, often performed by an ophthalmologist specialist.
2. Most dogs with PPM will live normal lives, though some may experience minor visual impairment.
3. PPM can vary in severity—some dogs may only have minor issues, while others could develop significant vision problems over time.

Prevention and Management:

• Early detection is key. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor the condition.
• If your Bloodhound is diagnosed with PPM, your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle adjustments, such as limiting exposure to bright sunlight or avoiding specific environments that could cause eye stress.
• Since PPM is genetic, affected dogs should not be bred to prevent the condition from being passed on to future generations.

4. Hip Dysplasia in Bloodhounds

Hip dysplasia is a genetic joint disorder that is commonly found in large dog breeds, including Bloodhounds. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, causing the bones to rub together and leading to pain, inflammation, and, over time, arthritis. 

Bloodhounds, like other large breeds, experience rapid growth, which can put excess strain on the developing hip joints. Additionally, the genetic predisposition of Bloodhounds makes them more susceptible to this condition.

Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia:

• Difficulty standing up or walking
• Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
• Swaying or bunny-hopping gait
• Pain or stiffness after exercise

Hip dysplasia can start to show symptoms as early as 5 to 12 months in Bloodhounds, especially as they begin to grow quickly. However, some signs of hip dysplasia may not be noticeable until your dog is older, particularly when they begin to show signs of arthritis or pain.

Prevention and Care:

• Maintain your dog’s healthy weight to prevent placing undue stress on their joints.
• Regular low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming) can help maintain muscle strength without stressing the hips.
• Consult with your veterinarian about joint supplements, such as glucosamine and omega fatty acids, to support joint health.

5. Heart Health in Bloodhounds

Cardiomyopathy is a degenerative condition that affects the heart muscle, leading to decreased ability to pump blood. The heart of a Bloodhound is under increased strain due to their large size. Larger dogs typically have a higher risk of developing cardiomyopathy as they age, especially males, who are more prone to this condition than females. Genetics also plays a significant role, and any Bloodhound with a family history of heart disease is at a higher risk.

Signs of Cardiomyopathy:

• Lethargy, fatigue, or lack of energy
• Trouble breathing or excessive panting
• Fainting or collapsing, particularly after exercise
• Coughing or fluid retention in the abdomen

This condition tends to affect Bloodhounds as they age, typically around 5 years and older. However, early signs can sometimes be noticed even in younger dogs, particularly if they show symptoms of fatigue or breathing difficulty. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Prevention and Care:

• Regular check-ups, including heart screenings, especially recommended for Bloodhounds over the age of 5.
• If your dog is diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics to help reduce symptoms and improve heart function.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help manage the condition.

Pioneering Treatments for Bloodhound Health

At Gallant, we are committed to advancing the future of pet healthcare through innovative treatments. As part of our ongoing research and development efforts, we are proud to be at the forefront of ready-to-use stem cell therapies. These therapies are designed to help treat a range of conditions that commonly affect cats and dogs, including feline chronic kidney disease, feline and canine osteoarthritis, feline gingivostomatitis, and canine atopic dermatitis.

Our stem cell therapy treatments are a non-invasive way to help support joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of damaged tissues. By harnessing the regenerative power of stem cells, Gallant is working to provide Bloodhound owners with new treatment options that could improve their dog’s mobility and overall quality of life.

Advance Veterinary Science

Be part of the movement bringing stem cell therapies into everyday veterinary care. Clinical trials are underway for conditions such as atopic dermatitis, arthritis, and others, helping pets live healthier and more comfortable lives.

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