Various health issues can affect Bull Terriers. Knowing what they are is best so you can work on preventing them.
Here is everything you need to know:
Yes. Bull Terriers are a pretty healthy breed, but they can suffer from some genetic health problems. Some are minor issues, and others can be more major concerns.
There are treatment options for all health problems, but if your pup lives a healthy life, he will be better off. Unfortunately, health problems are unpredictable and can affect even the healthiest of dogs.
Some common genetic health issues that Bull Terriers face include deafness, heart disease, luxating patellas, and various eye disorders like keratoconjunctivitis sicca, ectropion, and dry eye.
They can also suffer from kidney disease, obesity, dental infections, Laryngeal Paralysis, bacterial and viral infections and metabolic and digestive disorders. Some of these affect other dogs, and some only affect the Bull Terrier breed.
Few things have a more significant effect on your dog’s quality of life than the health of their eyes.
Unfortunately, there are several eye problems that Bull Terriers can inherit or develop, some of which can result in blindness if not treated immediately, and most of them can be very painful for your pup!
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, is prevalent in White Bull Terriers. The tear glands no longer generate enough tears, which causes infections and irritated, itchy eyes.
A heavy discharge, pawing at the eye, squinting, or a dull, dry eye appearance are all signs of this condition. If you see any of these symptoms, go to the vet immediately. If your doggo has this condition, he will get an ointment that you must use daily.
In their senior years, heart failure is considered to be a White Bull Terrier’s most common cause of death. The majority of canine heart disease is brought on by weakened valves. A heart valve gradually deteriorates, losing its ability to seal tightly.
The heart is strained due to blood leaking back around the valve. Heart murmurs are present in animals with heart valve disease, also known as mitral valve disease.
If your dog exhibits any symptoms of heart illness or a heart murmur, then tests should be done immediately. To keep an eye on the issue, the same tests must be performed at least once a year.
Early detection of heart valve dysfunction may allow the vet to administer drugs that could significantly extend your pup’s life. Veterinary dental care to treat dental disease, fatty acid supplements, and weight management can help prevent heart disease and lessen its symptoms.
This condition, which causes the vocal cords to paralyze and dangle down the airway, often affects Bull Terriers later in life. When exercising or during hot, humid conditions, be aware of noisy breathing. In extreme circumstances, a pet may pass out and have respiratory problems.
Adjustments made at home and potentially medication can be used to treat mild cases. If you notice any symptoms, get help immediately to prevent it from becoming surgical.
A genetic condition called glomerulonephropathy steadily weakens your Bull Terrier’s kidneys, often leading to kidney failure at a young age. This illness can be diagnosed and identified by looking for too much protein in his urine since damaged kidneys release protein.
Because early discovery results in a happy pet and a simpler, more manageable treatment approach, we advise yearly urine analysis. As part of the treatment strategy, the doctor or vet may recommend a change in diet.
Yes, you should. Pet health insurance gives you a safety net and ensures that your pet child gets the care they need and deserve should anything go wrong. Vet bills are not cheap, so insurance can help take a major load off your shoulders.
Even your Bull Terrier puppy should be insured. You never know what could happen. The same health issues that affect a miniature Bull Terrier affect a standard Bull Terrier.
Compare policy rates between various insurers and ensure they cover the health issues your doggo is prone to. Check their waiting times, what therapies are included in the insurance plan, and what the exclusions are.
A modern Bull Terrier can live anything between 10-14 years.
No matter how healthy your pup is, they are prone to health problems. It is essential to know what they are, what symptoms to look out for, and what treatment plans are available.
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