5 Common Boston Terrier Health Concerns
Boston Terriers are some of the smartest, playful dogs all wrapped up in an adorable, pint-size package. These hilarious hounds are sure to steal your heart with their dapper good looks and zest for life.
However, if you’re thinking about bringing one of these canine cuties into your life, it’s important to recognize the breed’s most common health concerns. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common illnesses so that you can be a prepared pet parent.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Boston Terriers are known for their signature small snouts. Brachycephalic means “short-headed,” and Boston Terriers fall under this classification, along with other common breeds like the Bulldog, Shih-Tzu, Pug, and Boxers.
Unfortunately, this adorable feature comes at a cost— smaller snouts can lead to breathing complications and eventually Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. This condition can cause lung collapse, gastrointestinal issues, and trouble breathing while exercising.
The syndrome is usually diagnosed within 1-4 years of age and is best corrected soon after the diagnosis. This condition is treated with surgery, however, there are a couple of strategies you can proactively engage in to protect your pooch.
For starters, ensure that you’re working with a breeder that you can trust. Responsible Boston Terrier breeders should be privy to your puppy’s genetic history, giving you a window into how likely this condition may be.
Otherwise, make sure you monitor your pooch carefully whenever he’s under hot weather conditions or exercising as these parameters can make breathing more difficult. In addition, it’s important to keep your Boston Terrier at a healthy weight since obesity can also exacerbate symptoms.
Glaucoma
These big-eyed beauties are unfortunately more prone to developing eye issues like Glaucoma. This issue occurs whenever there is some obstruction in the eyeball’s drainage system. The obstruction puts pressure on the eyeball, eventually leading to optic nerve damage.
This can be super painful for your Boston Terrier so you may notice him rubbing or scratching around the area. It’s important to keep your Boston Terrier up to date on medical examinations to keep his eyes in the best shape possible. While eye drops can help soothe this condition, Glaucoma can sadly lead to blindness.
Ear Infections
Boston Terriers have huge, bat-like ears that make them susceptible to a wide range of allergens. This can present in an onslaught of ear infections, so it’s vital to keep your Boston Terrier’s ears as clean as possible. While you’ll want to clean your dog’s ears about every two weeks, be sure to do so after every bath, swim, or contact with water.
Keep an eye out for excessive scratching or any discharge from the ear area. If the infections are persistent, be sure to talk with your veterinarian to determine the root cause of the issue.
Skin Allergies
Along with ear infections, Boston Terriers are also known to have trouble with skin allergies. Skin allergies or atopy can manifest in excessive biting, licking, or scratching of the skin. You might also see dry, flaky skin presented as dandruff or red, irritated skin on your dog’s belly or skin folds.
Skin allergies can be caused by a wide range of stimuli, so it’s best to speak with your veterinarian to rule out the root cause of the issue. Your Boston Terrier may need to go on a specialized diet or receive relief with antihistamines.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation, otherwise known as a slipped kneecap, is a condition that’s fairly common in small dog breeds. You may notice your Boston Terrier limping, refusing to put weight on a leg, or regularly stopping to stretch his rear legs. This condition can be treated through surgery or physical therapy.
However, it’s a genetic disease, so preventing this health problem starts with seeking out a reputable breeder.
As with any dog breed, Boston Terriers are susceptible to their own subset of health concerns. To keep these pups safe, be sure to stay on top of their routine medical visits and keep an eye out for any signs of these common health concerns. After all, these canine companions are so worth our love and care. Enjoy welcoming one of these playful pups into your life!
