Be Aware of The Boxer Dog Care That is Needed With This Breed

Whether you are a Boxer dog owner or are contemplating buying one, you should know some of the health problems that are characteristic of this breed of dog that could affect their quality of life. Every breed has some tendencies for genetic problems and this also holds true for the Boxer. Most of the Boxers today will live happy and healthy lives but you should know what to look for with the genetic conditions that could occur.

Some Boxers have a problem with the cornea in their eye called Corneal Dystrophy. When they are affected with this disease, they can develop corneal ulcers when the cornea is uneven. While in extreme cases it may cause blindness, most have their vision distorted. In some of the cases, this condition can be corrected with surgery.

As with many other larger breeds, the Boxer dog can be inflicted with Hip Dysplasia. This can be a huge problem in some dogs as the hip joints have not formed the right way and can cause much pain for the dog. Some actually find that it gets so bad that it will not support the weight of the dog and just gives out. Have the vet check the Boxer’s hips periodically because if you are able to catch this problem early in the disease, there may be things that the doctor can do to prevent the progress. When the symptoms become obvious there is really nothing that can be done.

There is a condition that on occasion will affect the Boxer’s aorta. This is called Aortic Stenosis and it happens when the aorta narrows or constricts and it prevents the normal flow of blood throughout the dog’s body. The best indication is that the dog will become tired very easily.

One of the most serious of all of the Boxer health ailments is called Boxer Cardiomyopathy. This occurs when the dog’s heart will beat in a very different way. There are really no visible symptoms but it has been know to be fatal. It is also easy to overlook in the exams routinely so if you own a boxer be sure to ask the vet to search for this problem while they are examining the dog.

Another one of the Boxer dog’s health concerns is Hyperthyroidism. It is the same disease that can affect people and usually carries the same symptoms such as loss of hair, skin conditions, stunted growth and basic lethargy. This is fairly easy to treat with medication that will allow your dog’s thyroid to function as it should and be able to live a long and healthy life.

Listing the above conditions that could affect your Boxer seems a bit scary but in reality each breed has their own predispositions to certain health conditions that are unique to them. Being diligent when observing your pet’s changing behaviors or general appearance could save your pet’s life and help him to live a strong, healthy lifestyle.