5 Common Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health Concerns
The Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel is one of the sweetest dog breeds you’ll ever come across. These compact canines weigh in around 15 pounds and are known for their gentle, affectionate nature. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for being incredibly adaptable and do well around other dogs and children.
If you’re planning on welcoming one of these cute canines into your life, it’s important to be fully aware of the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll detail 5 of the most common Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent.
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
One of the more unique conditions Cavalier Spaniels are subject to is Mitral Valve Disease or MVD. This is unfortunately the leading cause of death for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels since the disorder makes it difficult for blood to properly flow throughout the heart. This can lead to heart murmurs, shortness of breath, and general lethargy.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Mitral Valve Disease but your veterinarian can help prescribe certain medications in order to help your pooch deal with the associated symptoms. This also speaks to why it’s so important to seek out a responsible breeder in order to increase your chances of acquiring a healthy puppy.
Obesity
While obesity isn’t a serious issue in all dogs, it can be a slippery slope for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels since they are predisposed to a number of health issues. In addition, obesity can worsen the symptoms and pain associated with canine hip dysplasia, another condition commonly experienced by the breed.
Make sure you work with your veterinarian to craft an appropriate diet and exercise plan for your pooch to keep his weight at bay.
Ear Issues
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their adorable, floppy ears. Unfortunately, their large ears can make them more susceptible to ear infections and allergies. While most of these infections are fairly treatable, they can be incredibly irritating to your dog. As preventative care, make sure you regularly monitor and clean your pet’s ears, especially after exposure to water.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Urinary Tract Infections or UTIs are fairly common in dogs, especially Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This bladder infection is more likely to affect female dogs, but can also affect male dogs.
If your dog is experiencing a UTI, you might see her straining to urinate, needing to urinate more often, or even blood within the urine. This infection can usually be cleared up with a course of prescribed antibiotics but you’ll want to see your veterinarian at the first sign of symptoms as it can lead to more serious kidney issues if left untreated.
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joint does not properly align with its socket. This can cause great discomfort, inflammation, and immobility in some cases. You might notice your dog having difficulty putting weight on the affected area, carrying out everyday activities, or just acting lethargic.
While this condition is primarily genetic, it can be worsened by factors like obesity, so it’s important to keep your pooch at a healthy weight. Luckily, this condition can be treated with the help of supplements, stem cell therapy, physical therapy, or surgery depending on your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Just like any other dog, Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniels come with their own set of health concerns. As dog owners, it’s our responsibility to make sure that our dogs are well-tended for throughout their lives. After all, these loving canine companions are so worth it. Enjoying welcoming one of these caring pups into your life.
Did you know stem banking during the spay/neuter procedure can be a great benefit to your King Charles as they age. Learn how it can help HERE
