5 Common Great Pyrenees Health Concerns

You’ll find that these dogs are intelligent and adaptable. They can make great guard dogs, but you’ll want to focus on early socialization to ensure that these big best buddies aren’t aloof around strangers and other dogs. 

With that in mind, these dogs make amazing best buddies given proper care and attention. Before welcoming one of these large furry friends into your family, it’s important to understand the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Great Pyrenees health concerns. 

Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joint does not align properly with the hip socket. This hereditary condition is more common in some breeds than others, so it’s no surprise that the big-bones Great Pyrenees can be more susceptible to this condition. You may notice your dog struggling to walk, put weight on the affected leg(s), or even be immmobile, though this condition generally progresses over time. 

Hip dysplasia can be corrected through surgery or physical therapy. Some dogs can get by with the help of pain medication or joint supplements. Your veterinarian may advise lifestyle modifications to help your pet cope with the associated hip pain. 

Addison’s Disease

Addision’s disease is caused by the underproduction of the adrenal gland of the kidneys. Since these glands are responsible for regulating  cortisol along with sodium and potassium levels, affected dogs may experience a variety of symptoms. Affected dogs may have symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea or changes in thirst or appetite. If the condition is chronic, your veterinarian may recommend administering fluids on a regular basis to replenish your dog’s levels. Luckily, dogs with this condition are fairly unaffected once diagnosed. 

Bloat

Bloat is the serious condition in which a dog’s stomach fills with air putting unnecessary pressure on his system. This condition is also called gastric torsion and can cut off blood flow to vital organs if left untreated. Dogs experiencing bloat may experience a distended stomach, anxiety, excessive salivation, vomiting, or restlessness. Dogs with suspected bloat must be treated immediately since the disease can be deadly. Immediate surgical intervention is necessary to correct the condition. 

Entropion

Entropion is an eyelid abnormality in which the eyelid rolls inward. This dysfunction can cause fair to rub against the surface of the eye which can be incredibly painful for your pooch and potentially interfere with vision. Dogs affected by the condition may squint, tear excessively, or develop discharge from the eye. 

This condition is largely hereditary. Luckily, it can be corrected through surgery. Most dogs recover quickly from this condition once they have received proper treatment. 

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma, otherwise known as bone cancer, is unfortunately more common in Great Pyrenees pups. The condition creates tumors that break down bones overtime along with other tissues including those of the kidney and liver. Osteosarcoma is incredibly painful and may cause swelling or lameness in the affected area. 

This aggressive disease can only be properly treated through surgical removal of the affected area. If that avenue is no longer possible, your veterinarian may recommend chemotherapy. At the very least, affected dogs will have access to pain medication to help cope with the painful disease. 

Great Pyrenees pups have a big heart to match their massive size. By understanding the breed’s health concerns, you’ll be well prepared as a pooch parent. Enjoy welcoming one of these gentle giants into your family! 

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