Breed related diseases in Dogs – Boxer

Did you know that dogs are affected by the greatest number of naturally occuring genetic disorders of any non-human species. Many of these conditions seem to appear in specific breeds.  This is the second of our series of breed related diseases in dogs, and this time we feature Boxers

Below we discuss the commoner diseases that Boxers are prone to.  Some of these are known to be genetic. Please note: These are not the only diseases Boxers can get.

Aortic Stenosis

This is where there is a partial obstruction of the flow of blood as it leaves the left side of the heart (the left ventricle) through the main blood vessel (the aorta) and carries blood to the rest of the body.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Boxer Cardiomyopathy

This is an inherited disease where the heart muscle becomes inflamed and doesn’t work as well as it should.  Causes include a genetic predisposition and viral infections.  The condition is most commonly found in Doberman Pinschers and Boxers and can result in heart failure and sudden death.  Signs to look out for include exercise intolerance and fainting.

Atrial Septal Defect

This is where the dog’s heart has an opening in the wall (septum) between the right area and left area of the upper part of the heart.  A Consequence of this is that some blood from the left atrium flows through the hole in the septum into the right atrium and increases the total amount of the blood that flows toward the the lungs. The increased blood flow creates a swishing sound, which is known as a heart murmur.

Skin Disease

Canine Acne

Allergic Skin Disease

These include food allergies and environmental allergies (atopy). Itchy feet, faces, armpits, groin and bottom are the commonest signs

Seasonal Flank Alopcia

A non itchy hair loss on the flanks

Endocrine (hormonal) Diseases: 

Hypothyroidism (under active thyroid gland)

Cushings Disease

Eye Problems:

Corneal Dystrophy

The outermost layer of the eye is known as the cornea and is a clear, dome shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.  A corneal dystrophy is a condition where parts of the cornea lost their normal clarity due to a build up of cloudy material.  The disease is inherited, affects both eyes equally and is not caused by outside factors, such as diet or injury

Cherry Eye

This where the gland of the third eyelid, prolapes as a pink fleshy mass  protruding over the edge of the third eyelid. It cn become inflamed and ulcerated.

Corneal Ulceration

Boxers are very prone to corneal ulcers and they can be very challenging to treat.

Other Ailments for Boxers Include:

Tumours – Boxers are prone to many types of tumours including mast cell tumours, haemangiosarcomas, melonoma, lymphosarcoma etc.

Cryptorchidism – Retained testicles

Hip Dysplasia

GDV or Bloat

Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis – This is an inflammatory bowel disease and is found most commonly in boxers.  It causes inflammation and sores, called ulcers, in the lining of the large intestine.

If you have any questions about the about the above topics please feel free to contact the clinic