5 Common Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Health Concerns
These hard working dogs like to keep busy, though they’re gentle with children making them natural family companions. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are highly intelligent and easy to train, especially if treats are part of the bargain.
Before bringing home one of these doting dogs, it’s important to have a firm understanding of the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common health concerns of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. This way, you’ll be better equipped to welcome home one of these energetic, friendly furry friends.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy is caused by the degeneration of photoreceptor cells, rods and cones. This can lead to blindness and is usually a genetic condition. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment for PRA, so it’s worth bringing up with your breeder. Thankfully, most dogs won’t experience PRA until later in life. Most dogs with the condition adapt fairly quickly to their new state. In the event that your dog is blind, you’ll want to make lifestyle adjustments necessary to help your pooch feel his best.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is more common in medium to large sized dogs like the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. This genetic condition occurs when a dog’s hip joint doesn’t fit properly within its socket. Instead, the misaligned parts rub against each other causing inflammation, pain, and in some cases, immobility in the affected leg.
Fortunately, there are plenty of effective treatment options for your pooch. Your veterinarian may recommend surgery, physical therapy, or pain medication to help cope with the associated symptoms. Most dogs continue to live happy lives even with the onset of this inherited disease.
Entropion
Entropion is an eyelid abnormality that is caused by eyelids rolling inward. This improper alignment can cause hair to rub against an affected dog’s eyelid which results in pain, ulcers, or even affected vision over time. Dogs with this condition will often blink, hold their eyes shut, or tear up excessively.
This disorder tends to be hereditary. Treatment is surgical correction of the eyelid though it’s usually not performed until a puppy has reached his adult size. While the outlook is generally positive, many dogs have to undergo multiple surgeries with this condition.
Epilepsy
Seizures can have a variety of causes in dogs, though inherited epilepsy is believed to be the most common cause. Abnormal brain activity can cause your dog to suddenly convulse, stiffen, collapse, or foam at the mouth. While this can be a frightening sight, it’s usually not painful for your pooch. Recurring seizures are usually addressed through anticonvulsant medication. Note that dogs affected by this condition will need to take their prescribed medication for the rest of their lives.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is characterized by the underproduction of the thyroid gland. This gland regulates a dog’s metabolism which can lead to a wide range of symptoms. You may notice your dog experiencing hair loss, loss of appetite, changes in thirst, a slowed heart rate, or general lethargy. Hypothyroidism can be difficult to pin down diagnosis wise, and can only be identified through blood testing.
Dogs with this condition will need to take hormone replacement medication on a daily basis to cope with the associated symptoms. Thankfully, most pups continue to live happy lives once provided medication.
Generally speaking, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are hardy, fairly healthy dogs. That being said, it’s important to be aware of the potential associated health risks in order to keep Buddy feeling his best. Enjoy spending time with these devoted dogs!
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