Saint Bernards, those adorable giant dogs with droopy jowls and warm hearts, are beloved family pets for many. However, like any other breed, they are prone to certain health issues. From hip dysplasia to bloat and heart problems, this article will shed light on the most common health concerns faced by Saint Bernards. Whether you’re a proud owner or considering adding one to your family, understanding these health issues is essential for providing the best care for these gentle giants. So, let’s explore the world of Saint Bernard health and ensure their happiness and well-being.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common health issue that affects Saint Bernards. It is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to instability and eventual degeneration. The causes of hip dysplasia in Saint Bernards are both genetic and environmental. Genetics play a major role, as it is an inheritable condition. If a dog’s parents have hip dysplasia, there is a higher chance that the offspring will develop it too. Environmental factors such as diet, exercise, and weight can also contribute to the development of hip dysplasia.
Symptoms of hip dysplasia in Saint Bernards may vary in severity. Some dogs may show no symptoms at all, while others may experience pain and difficulty in walking or getting up. You may notice lameness, a limited range of motion, or a bunny hopping gait in your Saint Bernard. As the condition progresses, arthritis can develop, leading to more discomfort and stiffness. It is important to look out for these signs and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your Saint Bernard may have hip dysplasia.
Treatment options for hip dysplasia include both non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical management focuses on minimizing pain and managing the symptoms. Your veterinarian may recommend weight management, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and joint supplements to support the hip joint. Surgical treatment may be necessary for more severe cases or if conservative management options are not effective. Procedures such as total hip replacement or femoral head ostectomy can provide long-term pain relief and improve the dog’s mobility.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, is a serious and potentially life-threatening health issue that can affect Saint Bernards. It occurs when the stomach fills with air and twists on itself. The exact causes of GDV are not fully understood, but certain factors can increase the risk. Saint Bernards with deep chests, older dogs, dogs with a family history of GDV, and dogs who eat large meals or exercise vigorously after eating are more prone to developing this condition.
Symptoms of GDV may vary, but they generally include a distended abdomen, unproductive attempts to vomit, restlessness, excessive drooling, and signs of pain or discomfort. As the condition progresses, dogs may become weak, have a rapid heartbeat, and experience difficulty breathing. It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your Saint Bernard may have GDV, as it is a medical emergency.
The primary treatment option for GDV is emergency surgery. The veterinarian will assess the severity of the condition and take steps to relieve the stomach’s pressure and rotate it back into the correct position. Surgery may also involve securing the stomach to prevent future twisting. In some cases, if the stomach has undergone significant damage, a partial or total gastrectomy may be necessary. After surgery, the dog will require post-operative care, including pain management, fluid therapy, and a carefully monitored feeding regimen.
Ectropion
Ectropion is a common health issue in Saint Bernards, characterized by the outward turning of the eyelids. This condition can result in exposure of the eye’s surface, leading to irritation, redness, discomfort, and increased vulnerability to infections. Ectropion is primarily a hereditary condition in Saint Bernards, although certain environmental factors can exacerbate the symptoms. Breeding dogs with healthy eyelid conformation can help reduce the incidence of ectropion in future generations.
Symptoms of ectropion in Saint Bernards may include excessive tearing, squinting, redness, and discharge from the eyes. The lower eyelid may appear saggy or droopy, with the pink inner lining exposed. If left untreated, chronic eye infections and corneal ulcers may develop. It is important to consult with a veterinarian who can conduct a thorough examination and provide appropriate treatment options.
Treatment options for ectropion vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may require only lubricating eye drops or ointments to relieve dryness and irritation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the eyelid position. Surgical interventions involve tightening the eyelids to ensure proper alignment and function. Post-operative care may include medications to prevent infection and promote healing. Regular eye examinations and monitoring are essential to manage ectropion effectively.
Entropion
Entropion is another eyelid abnormality commonly seen in Saint Bernards. Unlike ectropion, entropion is characterized by an inward rolling of the eyelids. This can cause the eyelashes or hair on the eyelid margin to rub against the eyeball, leading to irritation, corneal ulcers, and vision problems. Similar to ectropion, entropion is primarily a hereditary condition, but environmental factors can contribute as well.
Symptoms of entropion may include excessive tearing, squinting, sensitivity to light, redness, and rubbing or pawing at the eyes. Your Saint Bernard may appear to be in discomfort and may often have visible hair rubbing against the eye. To prevent complications and maintain your dog’s ocular health, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect entropion.
Treatment options for entropion involve surgical correction to reposition the eyelids properly. The specific surgical technique depends on the severity of the condition and the dog’s overall health. In some cases, temporary measures such as tacking or suturing the eyelids may be performed initially to assess the effectiveness of the treatment. Post-operative care includes pain management, preventing infection, and regular follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, is unfortunately prevalent in Saint Bernards. It most commonly affects the long bones of the limbs but can also occur in other bones. The exact causes of osteosarcoma are not fully understood, but genetic predisposition and environmental factors may play a role. Large and giant breed dogs, such as Saint Bernards, are more susceptible to developing this aggressive cancer.
The symptoms of osteosarcoma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Lameness, swelling, pain, and difficulty in bearing weight on the affected limb are common signs. In some cases, the bone affected may become fragile and prone to fracture. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Treatment options for osteosarcoma typically involve a multifaceted approach. Surgical intervention is often recommended to remove the cancerous portion of the bone. In some cases, amputation of the affected limb may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent the cancer from spreading. Additionally, chemotherapy may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells and inhibit further spread. Palliative care, including pain management and supportive therapy, can help improve the dog’s quality of life.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect Saint Bernards, causing recurrent and unprovoked seizures. The exact causes of epilepsy are not fully understood, but genetic factors are believed to play a significant role. Certain triggers such as stress, changes in routine, or environmental factors may contribute to the occurrence of seizures in affected dogs.
Symptoms of epilepsy in Saint Bernards include seizures, which can manifest in various forms. Some dogs may experience noticeable convulsions, loss of consciousness, stiffening of the limbs, or involuntary movements. Other dogs may exhibit milder signs such as confusion, restlessness, or temporary disorientation. It is important to note the frequency, duration, and nature of the seizures and consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment options for epilepsy mainly focus on controlling and minimizing the occurrence of seizures. Anticonvulsant medications are commonly prescribed to help manage the condition. The specific medication and dosage will vary depending on the individual dog’s needs. Regular monitoring, including blood tests, may be necessary to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) is a congenital heart defect commonly found in Saint Bernards. It involves the narrowing of the aortic valve, which obstructs blood flow from the heart. The exact causes of SAS are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a hereditary condition. Breeding dogs with a history of SAS increases the risk of passing on the defective genes to offspring.
Symptoms of SAS may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not present any noticeable symptoms, while severe cases can lead to exercise intolerance, fatigue, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. It is crucial to consult with a veterinarian if you notice any signs of cardiac issues in your Saint Bernard.
Treatment options for SAS depend on the severity of the condition and its impact on the dog’s overall health. Mild cases may not require any treatment, and regular monitoring may be sufficient. In more severe cases, medication to manage symptoms and regulate blood pressure may be prescribed. Surgical intervention, such as balloon valvuloplasty or aortic valve replacement, may be necessary in critical cases to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disorder that can affect Saint Bernards, leading to decreased function of the thyroid gland. The exact causes of hypothyroidism are not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of this disorder.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism in Saint Bernards can vary but often include weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, dry skin, intolerance to cold, and a slow heart rate. Some dogs may also experience behavioral changes or muscle weakness. If you observe these symptoms in your dog, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to perform a thyroid function test for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment options for hypothyroidism involve lifelong supplementation of synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine. The dosage and frequency of medication will be determined based on the individual dog’s needs. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor thyroid hormone levels and ensure the correct dosage is being administered. With proper management, dogs with hypothyroidism can lead healthy and active lives.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord of Saint Bernards. The exact causes of DM are not fully understood, but it is believed to have a genetic component. Mutations in the SOD1 gene have been associated with an increased risk of developing this degenerative disease.
Symptoms of DM in Saint Bernards often start with mild and subtle signs such as difficulty in walking or a slightly unsteady gait. As the disease progresses, hind limb weakness, loss of coordination, and muscle atrophy become more prominent. Eventually, the disease can affect the dog’s ability to walk and lead to paralysis. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and support.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for degenerative myelopathy. Treatment options primarily focus on supportive care to maintain the dog’s quality of life. Physical therapy, mobility aids (such as wheelchairs), and medications to alleviate pain and manage symptoms may be recommended. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan are essential as the disease progresses.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition in Saint Bernards, characterized by the clouding of the lens, leading to impaired vision or blindness. The exact causes of cataracts are multifactorial and can include genetic predisposition, trauma, diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, and age-related changes. Certain medications or systemic diseases may also contribute to the development of cataracts.
Symptoms of cataracts in Saint Bernards can range from mild visual impairment to complete loss of vision. You may notice a whitish or cloudy appearance in the affected eye(s). The dog may show signs of bumping into objects, difficulty navigating familiar spaces, or increased clumsiness. If you suspect your Saint Bernard may have cataracts, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian for a proper eye examination.
Treatment options for cataracts depend on the severity and impact on the dog’s quality of life. Surgical removal of the cataract, known as cataract extraction, is the most effective treatment for restoring vision. However, not all cataracts require surgery, especially if they are not causing significant visual impairment. Regular eye examinations and monitoring are crucial to manage cataracts and prevent complications such as secondary glaucoma.