Health Troubles for Rottweilers?

Health Troubles for Rottweilers?

Health Troubles for Rottweilers?

Despite the fact that Rottweilers are strong and intimidating dogs, this breed is afflicted with quite a few healthy problems that can shorten their lifespan considerably. The average lifespan of the breed is 8 to 10 years which is relatively short when compared to other similarly sized breeds. Rottweilers make very loyal and protective companions but require a lot of care and attention as the breed is prone to dominance issues. Owners of this breed should be assertive yet gentle and a lot of exercise and mental stimulation should be given to the dog if boredom is to be avoided. A bored Rottweiler can develop destructive behavior.

Sadly the breed is susceptible to many health issues due to genetic and hereditary causes and one of the most common health problems the breed suffers from is bone and joint disease. Hip and elbow dysplasia is rife among the breed and special care should be taken not to breed diseased parents as the condition is hereditary. Another joint disease common in Rotteweilers is osteochondrosis dissecans. Osteochondrosis dissecans is a type of arthritis that affects the cartilage in joints and causes it to crack and fragment exposing the bones. Although supplements and surgery can help dogs afflicted with dysplasia and arthritis, the conditions are not curable, only supportive care is possible and this is why it is important to research the genetic background of any puppy you are considering buying or adopting. Appropriate exercise is important with these dogs and excessive exercise (especially when the dog is young) can trigger an underlying genetic condition so care should be taken.

Rottweilers are also prone to cancer, particularly osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Fragile and easily broken bones are a sign that the dog may be suffering from this form of cancer. Bone cancer typically produces tumors within the bones which cause weakening of bone cells and swelling. X-rays are used to determine if bone structure has been affected but a biopsy is required if the diagnosis is to be confirmed. The prognosis of osteosarcoma is usually not good and amputation is commonly recommended.

Another serious condition Rottweilers are susceptible to is bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus. This can occur in large barreled dogs and commonly affects dogs that eat or drink quickly. When the dog eats quickly he gulps in air and this causes the stomach to twist and bloat. This twisting and bloating of the gut can quickly cause an obstruction which cuts off blood circulation and results in decreased blood pressure and organ death. Signs of bloat include restlessness, foaming at the mouth, lethargy and gagging and it is vital to seek emergency veterinary attention immediately as the condition can be lethal within a very short period of time.

Being prone to obesity, Rottweilers are vulnerable to heart conditions such as sub-aortic stenosis. This condition is caused by fats and extra tissues forming in the aortic valve of the heart which results in blood flow obstruction. The heart then has to pump harder to compensate and while some dogs can live a full lifespan with the condition, it can cause instant death in others. If the dog has a heart murmur this is an indication that the condition exists.

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