5 Common Bull Terrier Health Concerns
These distinct dogs are super sweet with their loved ones and want nothing more than to spend time with their family members. Bull Terriers have a playful personality and plenty of energy that should be exercised on a regular basis to keep their tails wagging.
Owners of Bull Terriers will need to invest lots of time in training since these dogs can be naturally somewhat aloof or even possessive around strangers and other dogs. That being said, with socialization and plenty of training sessions, these dogs are bound to make amazing furry friends for life. Before bringing home one of these tough best buddies, it’s essential to understand the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Bull Terrier health concerns.
Deafness
Hearing loss is common as dogs age, but it can also be a congenital disorder that’s more common in certain breeds than others. All white Bull Terriers are more likely to suffer from congenital deafness. Deafness can happen rapidly or develop gradually over time. You might find that your dog is less responsive to commands or can’t determine the source of certain sounds.
Unfortunately, there’s no definitive cure to doggie deafness. Veterinarians can help cure issues that may be contributing to hearing loss including ear infections or blocked ear canals. If you discover that your pooch is deaf, you’ll need to enact some lifestyle changes to keep your four-footer comfortable. Luckily, most dogs adapt fairly quickly to this condition.
Patellar Luxation
A luxating patella refers to a dog’s dislocated kneecap. Dogs with this condition may struggle to put weight on the affected leg or avoid putting weight on it altogether. For most dogs, this is an inherited condition, so it’s worth inquiring with your breeder whether or not your dog is predisposed to patellar luxation.
Surgery can be an effective treatment depending on the severity of the condition. For some dogs, pain medication on its own can be enough to tolerate the associated symptoms. You might also have to adjust your dog’s daily routine to reduce unnecessary impact on the knees.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or dry eye in dogs is caused by the inflammation of the cornea. This can make it difficult for dogs to produce tears which can cause painful, red, irritated eyes. It’s commonly passed on from one generation to the next, and may result in secondary eye infections. Dogs with this condition need a tear-stimulating medication administered on a daily basis to keep unpleasant symptoms at bay.
Heart Disease
Cardiomyopathy or heart disease in dogs is defined by the degeneration of the heart muscle. This condition can develop fairly rapidly, so it’s key to keep an eye out for all of the warning signs. You may notice your dog breathing rapidly, collapsing, or experiencing extreme fatigue. Dogs with signs of this condition should be taken to medical care immediately. Management varies greatly on a case by case basis, but possible treatments include anti-arrhythmic drugs or Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.
Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease occurs when a dog’s kidneys are unable to effectively filter out toxins. In most cases, this disease plays out over a number of years, with signs including excess urination, extreme thirst, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Dogs with this condition may need to have their kidneys flushed. In more severe cases, management may be the only possible prognosis. Dogs may alter diet, be put on a regular medication, or use fluid therapy to manage the associated symptoms as long as possible.
Bull Terriers make amazing best buddies to the right home. That being said, it’s vital to understand the breed’s common ailments so that you can be a prepared pooch parent. Enjoy spending time with these brave canine companions!
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