5 Common Boxer Health Concerns
Boxer dogs are one of the most cherished dogs of the canine kingdom and with good reason. These playful pups are amazing family companions and watchdogs with an elegant yet muscular build. Plus, who can’t resist that adorable trademark face?
If you’re thinking about bringing one of these big-eyed beauties into your life, it’s important to take their overall health history into consideration. Like any other breed, boxers are prone to certain health conditions based on their bloodline. Below, we’ll share 5 common Boxer Health concerns so that you can be thoroughly prepared to welcome one of these cute canines into your life.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Unfortunately, Boxers can be prone to developing degenerative myelopathy which is a neurological disease. Most of the time, the disease prevents itself in senior dogs. This condition can be incredibly debilitating by affecting the nervous system and lower spinal cord. Depending on the severity of the condition, it can lead to partial or full paralysis of the lower limbs.
Signs of this condition are unexpected clumsiness from your Boxer. Your buddy may look as though he’s forgotten how to walk, and overtime these slip ups may become increasingly regular. Unfortunately, this condition cannot be cured.
However, with different lifestyle changes like adopting a custom wheelchair, brace, and adding in certain supplements, your Boxer can still live a fulfilling life with degenerative myelopathy. You’ll also want to make sure you’re focusing on preventative care by keeping your Boxer up to date on his regular visits to the vet.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is generally a genetic condition that occurs as a result of an underactive thyroid gland. Luckily, medication can help relieve symptoms of this condition. However, this is a key example as to why it’s important to make sure your Boxer breeder is responsible and understands your puppy’s pedigree. Be sure to ask about the health of your puppy’s parents and grandparents if you have the opportunity.
Here are some key symptoms of hypothyroidism to keep any eye out for:
- Lethargy
- Hair loss
- Changes in skin pigmentation
- Slow heart rate
Be sure to contact your veterinarian immediately if your boxer is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
Heart Disease
The beautiful Boxer can be prone to developing the genetic heart disease aortic stenosis. This is something you’ll want to look out for when picking out a responsible breeder— Stay away from puppy mills. In addition, make sure your Boxer stays up to date on his annual veterinarian check-ins.
Bloat
Boxers are unfortunately known for having a series of gastrointestinal issues due to their deep chest cavity. Bloat is also known as gastric dilation where the GI system will swell, preventing digestion.
While an upset tummy every once in a while isn’t a huge deal, bloat can be much more serious. In severe cases, bloat can cause the stomach to twist, which can interfere with blood flow, and even be lethal. For these reasons, you’ll want to look out for the following signs of bloat and call a veterinarian immediately whenever your Boxer is exhibiting these symptoms:
- Excessive panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
- Straining to vomit
You can also help your boxer by making sure he doesn’t eat too fast or too much at once. Use a slow-feeding bowl as a method of preventative care.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a disease that’s inherited from one generation to another. This condition causes deterioration of the hips over time which can lead to a devastating and painful loss of movement. Thankfully, this condition can be treated through physical therapy, surgery, stem cell treatments, and with the help of veterinarian prescribed supplements. Learn how you can bank your boxers stem cells from the spay or neuter procedure HERE.
As you can see, Boxers are prone to specialized health concerns just like any other breed. However, the Boxer’s loving, playful personality is so worth the extra effort. Enjoy welcoming one of these distinguished dogs into your life.
