Five Common Mastiff Health Concerns
If you’re looking for a loyal, gentle giant, a Mastiff might be the perfect pooch for you. These brooding buddies sometimes weigh over 200 pounds and have a courageous, bold personality to match their distinct appearance. These super sweethearts are caring, patient companions that are eternally devoted to their loved ones.
Are you ready to take on the challenge of having a massive Mastiff as a part of your family? If so, it’s important to understand the breed’s health history so that you can provide your pooch with the care and support he needs. Below, we’ll share five common Mastiff health concerns.
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer or Osteosarcoma is unfortunately fairly common in Mastiff dogs. This aggressive cancer is known to spread throughout the body quickly if not treated within its early stages and is usually hereditary. Symptoms include swelling, discomfort, and lameness near the site of the cancerThis condition is usually diagnosed later in a dog’s life and typically occurs in larger breeds. Bone cancer in dogs is more common in males and may be treatable with chemotherapy and surgery depending on the stage of the condition.
Bloat or GDV
Bloat or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus in dogs is an unfortunately common condition in dogs that can be deadly if left unaddressed. This condition occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with food or fluid, putting pressure on the other organs. You may notice your dog with a swollen stomach, pale gums, or attempting to vomit, pacing, and acting lethargic. If these symptoms are present, your dog should be taken to an emergency clinic at once to pump the stomach. Moving forward, your veterinarian will advise lifestyle changes to help reduce your dog’s risk.
Mitral Valve Disease
Mitral valve disease is unfortunately fairly common amongst the canine community. This condition is characterized by a malfunction in valve pumping blood throughout the heart. The condition can be caused through genetic mutations along with oral or blood borne infections. This potentially fatal condition is usually suspected at a site of a heart murmur and requires a personalized treatment plan from your veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is common in many breeds, but especially in those of such large stature like the Mastiff. This condition occurs when a dog’s ball and socket of the hip joint rub against one another rather than functioning in one smooth, cohesive motion. Hip dysplasia can make it difficult for your dog to carry out his everyday activities, run or climb stairs, or simply move from one location to another.
While this condition is largely unavoidable, keep in mind that extra weight can put additional stress on your dog’s bones, so it’s important to keep your Mastiff at a healthy weight. When it comes to treatment, your veterinarian may recommend using supplements, pain medication, stem cell treatments and/or physical therapy to help cope with the condition’s associated symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat hip dysplasia.
Eye Issues
Unfortunately, these large lovable dogs are susceptible to a number of eye issues. One of them, cataracts, is characterized by a clouding of the lens, which can eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. These pups can also suffer from cherry eye or other disorders related to the eyelid including ectropion and entropion. While these diseases are not life threatening, they can negatively affect your Mastiff’s quality of life. Therefore, it’s key to stay up to date on your dog’s preventative health visits.
Mastiff dogs have their own set of specific health concerns just like any other breed. By having a firm understanding of your dog’s health history, you can help him live a long, happy life. After all, these big buddies are so worth our care and concern. Enjoy welcoming one of these sweet pups into your family.
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