5 Common Rottweiler Health Concerns
If you’re looking for a strong, loving, and loyal companion, you can’t go wrong with an adorable Rottweiler. Rottie dogs and puppies are robust members of the working breed class that served as valued herd protectors throughout the Roman empire.
While you’re much more likely to find these dogs guarding their favorite toy nowadays, Rottweilers still remain one of the best breeds to welcome into your family. However, just like any other dog, the breed comes with its own set of health concerns that any Rottie pet parent should be aware of.
Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Rottweiler health concerns so that you can be a confident canine owner in no time at all.
Sub-Aortic Stenosis
This cardiac condition is marked by a blockage of blood flow, usually detected as a heart murmur. The structural defect can range from mild to extremely severe and can even lead to death if left unaddressed. While there isn’t a comprehensive treatment, your veterinarian can help you craft up a lifestyle plan to keep this condition at bay.
Sub-Aortic Stenosis is a genetic condition passed down from one generation to the next. Hence, you’ll want to make sure you’re seeking out a reputable Rottweiler breeder with extensive knowledge of your puppy’s family health history.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia occurs when a dog’s joints and hip sockets do not align properly, causing intense discomfort and pain. This genetic condition can lead to lifestyle limitations and immobility in some instances.
If your Rottweiler suffers from hip dysplasia, your veterinarian may recommend adding supplements to the diet, physical therapy, stem cell treatments or even surgery in some cases. Unfortunately, Rottweilers are also known to have elbow dysplasia as well in their genetic pool.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
This disease is somewhat similar to arthritis and affects the growing bone cartilage in dogs. It can present itself in multiple spots throughout the body and can lead to limping, discomfort, and immobility in some cases. The genetic condition is passed down from an affected parent to puppy.
In most cases, this condition will require surgical intervention to correct. You’ll also want to make sure you keep your Rottie at a healthy, balanced weight as obesity can worsen the symptoms tied to this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Unfortunately, Rottweilers are no stranger to eye issues, including progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA. This genetic condition occurs when some of the photo or light receptors in the back of your dog’s eye begin to fail.
Dogs with this condition have an extremely difficult time seeing at night, and the condition can eventually progressive to full nighttime blindness. The progressive condition eventually affects daytime vision in affected dogs and unfortunately has no cure. However, with guidance from your pet care professional, you can make sure that your Rottweiler still has an exciting, fulfilling life despite the setbacks of blindness.
Entropion
In this condition, the dog’s lower or upper eyelid rolls inwards. This inherited trait can cause swelling and irritation to your pooch and lead to other eye issues. In most cases, entropion will require some form of surgery to correct the issue. Depending on the severity of the condition, it’s possible that the issue will require multiple surgical procedures over the course of your dog’s life.
As you can see, the Rottweiler breed comes with its own set of common health concerns commonly passed down from one generation to the next. It’s important to acknowledge these commonplace conditions in order to be a proactive pet parent.
After all, these loving dogs are so worth our extra concern. Enjoy welcoming one of these caring, loyal canines into your life.
Stem banking during the spay/neuter procedure can be a great benefit to your rottie puppy as they age. Learn more HERE
