Bull Mastiff Health & Care
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- Frequent
Common Health Issues
Bullmastiffs are generally a healthy breed of dog. However, before getting a new puppy it will be advised that all medical history of the parents of the pup is referred to rule out any genetic or hereditary disorder that might inflict the pup. Some of the common health issues that Bullmastiffs might be prone are:
Cancer / Tumours - For reasons unknown, Bullmastiffs are more prone to cancer and tumours than any other breed. Some of the common forms of cancer that may inflict a Bullmastiff are lymphosarcoma, mast cell tumours, osteosarcoma and hemangiosarcoma. For certain forms of cancer, surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiation may be considered a successful treatment.
Hip Dysplasia - Hip Dysplasia is a genetic disorder where the hip bone has a defect in connecting with the hip joint as a result of which the dog may experience pain or lameness in either of the rear legs. As the dog grows, he / she may also develop arthritis. Before getting a puppy, check the medical documents of the parents to rule out hip dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia - Elbow Dysplasia is a genetic disorder where the bones that comprise the elbow do not join uniformly in the elbow joint causing joint laxity and painful lameness.
Hypothyroidism - Hypothyroidism is another condition that inflicts Bullmastiffs. In hypothyroidism, the hormone gland of the dog does not function well and as a result, the growth and the development of the dog gets affected. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include dull fur, extreme lethargy, obesity / weight loss and mental dullness. A full blood check up will be required to diagnose the problem.
Aortic Stenosis - Aortic Stenosis is a cardiac defect that is found in most Bullmastiffs. Due to Aortic Stenosis, the dog may feel lethargic all the time and have have episodes of fainting. When a dog has Aortic Stenosis, the heart works at twice the normal rate to pump blood. The defect in the aorta narrows the aortic valve to enable a smooth blood supply. When you get a boxer have a veterinary doctor check the heart for any murmur. Aortic Stenosis can prove lethal for the dog.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus or Bloat - This is a common problem in deep chested dogs. Bloat can be lethal in nature if not detected early as it causes organ, especially gastric failure. In case of Bloat, there is a sudden buildup of gas in the digestive system and then causes the organ to twist.
Entropion - Entropion is a condition that causes the eyelid to roll inwards thereby irritating and injuring the eyeball. Surgical intervention may be required to correct the problem.
Cystinuria - Bullmastiffs are prone to cystinuria, i.e. the inability of the kidneys to reabsorb cysteines, an amino acid, back into the kidney lubes. It is a genetic disorder and can cause life threatening problems such as kidney or bladder stones and blockages in the urinary tract.
Rupture of Ligaments - Ligament tears especially in the knee is a common problem with large young dogs and generally happens during playtime. In this case there maybe a sudden onset of lameness and if not treated soon enough can lead to the onset of arthritis.
Skin Allergies - Bullmastiffs have a very sensitive skin and are prone to developing rashes and sores due to certain allergens present in the air. Many Bullmastiffs are known to be on a lifelong antibiotic regime to keep allergies at bay.
