Bullmastiff.

Due to their active lifestyles, hip dysplasia is not a rare occurrence in Bullmastiffs. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and is the primary cause of painful hip osteoarthritis in dogs. It generally occurs in large or giant breed dogs, however can also occur in smaller breeds as well. It is usually affected by factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, improper weight and nutrition. Symptoms of hip dysplasia may show in dogs when they are as young as four months of age, whilst for others the disease may develop in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. These symptoms may include decreased activity, difficulting or reluctance rising, jumping or running, lameness in the hind end, loss of thigh muscle mass, pain and stiffness. Hip dysplasia is diagnosed radiographically by the presence of degenerative changes and/or subluxation of the hip joint(s). There are multiple treatment options ranging from lifestyle modifications to surgery. These may include physical therapy, joint supplements or anti-inflammatory medications, or common surgeries such as double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO), femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement (THR).

Elbow dysplasia is the most frequent cause of front leg lameness in canines, and is the term used to describe a variety of conditions which may occur alone or in combination within the elbow. It is an inherited condition that may occur in most dog breeds, but is generally found within large to giant dog breeds. Predisposed breeds include Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. Dogs affected by elbow dysplasia often show symptoms from an early age, developing a front limb lameness that typically worsens over a period of weeks to months. Diagnosis is usually performed with clinical examination and X-rays, which will typically show signs of arthritis. Treatment will depend on the severity of the disease in the elbow, and management will depend on the dog’s age. In most cases, all dogs diagnosed with elbow dysplasia will benefit from physiotherapy to improve their quality of life and overall mobility.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a rapidly progressive life-threatening condition in dogs. It is usually associated with large meals and causes the stomach to dilate, due to food and gas, increasing the pressure in the stomach. The consequences of this increased size and pressure may be severe, including prevention of adequate blood return to the heart, rupture of stomach walls, pressure on the diaphragm leading to decreased ability to maintain normal breathing. If the condition worsens and your dog does not receive treatment in time, the condition can become life-threatening. Veterinarians are unsure what causes bloating in dogs, but factors that increase the risk include eating from a raised food bowl, having one large meal a day, eating and drinking too much or even stress. Although any breed can bloat, it is much more common in deep-chested large breeds such as Akitas, Boxers, Basset Hounds and German Shepherds. As this is an emergency, it is imperative your dog receives immediate veterinary intervention. They will treat the shock, and once your dog is stable, take them into surgery to deflate the stomach and tack the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting.

Hypothyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland, which produces hormones, Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), is dysfunctional and does not produce these hormones as required by the body. Common symptoms include weight gain, poor coat, reduced activity level and irritability. Diagnosis is by means of blood tests, and hypothyroidism is easily treated with an inexpensive thyroid supplement. Pet owners should have their vet periodically check their dogs, especially if they show any symptoms.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a late onset, inherited eye disease affecting many breeds of dogs. It affects the retina, which is the picture screen at the back of the eye, and causes the blood vessels of the retina to atrophy and die. The first symptom noticed is usually dilated pupils – a ‘glow’ or increased ‘eye shine’, and the dog may appear to have difficulty seeing in the dark or dusk (“night blind”). Breeds commonly affected include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Labrador and Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers. There is no cure for PRA, however an eye exam by a registered Ophthalmologist will diagnose the disease. DNA testing for late consent PRA is available, and is done by taking a cheek swab of your Border Collie. The PRA DNA test identifies one type of PRA, which is related to night blindness. There are another two types of PRA, for which there are currently no DNA tests available.

Skin allergies are the most common type of allergic reactions, and are primarily caused by flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies or environmental allergens. Bullmastiffs are quite prone to skin allergies, and may develop rashes or excessive hair loss as a consequence. Symptoms of skin allergies generally include scratching, general discomfort or redness. Take measures to monitor skin allergies by regularly bathing your dog and keeping them flea-free. The best way to treat an allergy is avoidance of the cause and allergen. In addition to any necessary lifestyle modifications, your veterinarian may prescribe medication for your dog to help control the signs associated with the allergic reaction.