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COMMON HEALTH CONDITIONS
Managing Health Issues in Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands are a large, lovable breed prone to several health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart diseases like Dilated Cardiomyopathy, and ear infections due to their thick, water-loving fur. Regular veterinary care, early diagnosis, and preventive measures such as proper grooming and genetic screening are essential to maintaining their health. By staying informed and vigilant, owners can help their Newfoundland live a long, healthy life.
Ear Infections
Newfoundlands have heavy ears surrounded by thick fur, which often gets wet due to their love of water. This can lead to mild to severe ear infections. Signs include inflamed, red ears with dark brown or black discharge. Your dog may also shake its head and scratch at the ears. To prevent infections, it’s essential to regularly clean your Newfoundland’s ears with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleanser. If an infection is suspected, a visit to the vet is necessary.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy in dogs involves sudden seizures, either due to brain damage or without any apparent cause. This condition typically manifests in younger dogs and requires prompt veterinary care. Treatment and management are crucial, and it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions carefully.
Eye Conditions (Ectropion/Entropion)
Newfoundlands have heavy ears surrounded by thick fur, which often gets wet due to their love of water. This can lead to mild to severe ear infections. Signs include inflamed, red ears with dark brown or black discharge. Your dog may also shake its head and scratch at the ears. To prevent infections, it’s essential to regularly clean your Newfoundland’s ears with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleanser. If an infection is suspected, a visit to the vet is necessary.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
This heart disease causes the heart muscle to enlarge and weaken, leading to poor circulation and exercise intolerance. Irregular heart rhythms can develop, and without treatment, DCM may progress to heart failure. While medications and careful management can extend a dog’s life, DCM often has a genetic component and can be fatal. Breeders should avoid breeding affected dogs.
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS)
SAS is an inherited heart condition where a ring of tissue forms below the aortic valve, restricting blood flow and increasing pressure within the heart. Symptoms may include lethargy, exercise intolerance, fainting, or sudden death. Early diagnosis through auscultation and cardiac ultrasound is essential. While medication can extend a dog's life, severely affected puppies may have a life expectancy of under three years.
Other Heart Conditions
Newfoundlands may also be prone to other heart conditions like Pulmonic Stenosis, Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), and Tricuspid Valvular Dysplasia. These conditions are serious but can be managed with proper veterinary care. Breeding from affected dogs is highly discouraged.
Heatstroke
Newfoundlands are prone to heatstroke, especially in hot weather or after vigorous exercise. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, excessive panting, and collapse. Prevention is key—provide ample shade, water, and avoid exercise during hot conditions. Never leave your dog in a vehicle on warm days. If heatstroke is suspected, cooling your dog down with water before seeking immediate veterinary care can help, but avoid using ice-cold water to prevent shock.
Bloat is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off the blood supply. Symptoms include distress, failed attempts to vomit, and restlessness. Immediate veterinary care is essential, and prevention includes feeding multiple smaller meals, avoiding high-cereal foods, and limiting exercise before or after meals.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia occur when joints don’t form correctly, causing pain and lameness. Mildly affected dogs may develop arthritis with age, while severely affected dogs may need surgery, including total hip replacements. Diagnosis is made through X-rays, and breeders should consider both the depth and breadth of family histories to minimize the risk of passing on this condition.
Panosteitis (Pano)
Panosteitis is an inflammatory bone disease in young, rapidly growing dogs, causing lameness that may rotate between legs. While painful, this condition is usually self-limiting, with most dogs outgrowing it. Limiting activity and providing anti-inflammatory medication can help manage symptoms.
Ruptured Cruciate Ligament
This ligament stabilizes the knee, and rupture can cause sudden lameness. Partial tears may result in mild limping, while complete ruptures require surgical repair. Rest and rehabilitation may be enough for strains, but surgery is often required for severe cases.
Cystinuria
This inherited condition prevents the proper absorption of cystine (an amino acid), leading to the formation of crystals or stones in the urinary tract, especially in males. Signs include painful urination or blockages, which may require surgery. DNA testing can identify carriers, and affected dogs should not be bred.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. Common signs include lethargy, weight gain, and poor coat condition. Diagnosis requires blood tests, and the condition is managed with daily medication.
Eczema ("Hot Spots")
Eczema, or hot spots, is a common condition in Newfoundlands. Moisture trapped under the coat can cause infection, leading to painful, inflamed skin. Owners can treat minor cases at home by shaving the area, cleaning it, and applying antibiotic ointment.
Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP)
FCP is a condition where a fragment of bone in the elbow causes lameness in the front legs. Surgery is typically required to correct this issue. It is an inherited condition, so breeders should be cautious when selecting breeding pairs.