5 Common Dogues De Bordeaux Health Concerns
You’ll find that these dogs make superb watchdogs though you’ll need to pay special care towards socialization to ensure that these pups don’t become overly territorial.
With proper training and care, this breed makes for an amazing family dog and tends to do particularly well with kids. Before bringing home one of these loyal canine companions, it’s key to understand the breeds’ health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Dogues De Bordeaux health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent.
Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is a type of heart disease in which a dog’s aortic heart valve is narrowed, putting unnecessary pressure on the entire system. Most dogs do not show outward symptoms of this condition. Instead, a heart murmur is usually detected by a veterinarian with 6 to 12 months of age. This speaks to why it’s so important to keep your dog up to date on wellness visits. Dogs with a mild case of the condition can usually get by with some necessary lifestyle adjustments. In more serious cases, long-term medication will be required to regulate a dog’s heart rate.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Unfortunately, Dogues De Bordeaux are subject to another heart condition, dilated cardiomyopathy. This condition is defined as the degeneration of the heart muscle. Signs may include rapid breathing, lethargy, coughing, weakness, depressed attitude, or restless sleep.
This disease is highly personalized and will likely need a series of various tests including X-rays and ECGs to properly diagnose. Treatment varies greatly on a case to case basis. Dogs may be prescribed antiarrhythmic drugs, vasodilators, bronchodilators, or other medications to help cope with the associated symptoms.
Bloat
Bloat or gastric torsion is the deadly condition in which a dog’s stomach fills up with air putting unnecessary pressure on a dog’s system. This can lead to cutting off certain parts of a dog’s blood flow which can be deadly if left untreated. Dogs experiencing bloat may have a distended stomach, be restless, retching, or salivating heavily. If you suspect that your dog is suffering from bloat, it’s key to seek medical care immediately.
Affected dogs will need to have immediate surgery to deflate the stomach. While the exact cause of bloat is unknown, you can help prevent your pooch from developing bloat by serving small meals and ensuring that your dog doesn’t eat too quickly.
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joint does not properly align with the socket. This can cause pain, irritation and inflammation. You may notice your dog struggling to put weight on the affected leg(s) or carry out his usual routine. Hip dysplasia is typically a genetic condition so it cannot always be prevented.
That being said, affected dogs can help cope with the associated symptoms through physical therapy, pain medication, and joint supplements. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the condition.
Lymphoma
Unfortunately, many dogs, including the Dogues De Bordeaux are at risk of developing lymphoma. This group of cancers is usually identified through an extraneous, visible lump growing just beneath the skin. The most effective treatment for the condition is chemotherapy. That being said, this disease isn’t curable. As a preventative measure, it’s best to ask your dog’s breeder about the history of lymphoma within his pedigree.
The Dogues De Bordeaux comes with his own set of health concerns like any other breed. With that in mind, these gracious dogs are well-worth our care and concern. Enjoy spending time with these distinct dogs!
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