Spaniel genetic diseases

If you decide to have a cocker spaniel, you need to know what genetic diseases your dog might face and what are the symptoms. Breed diseases are often difficult to treat, but can be stopped. In some cases, surgical intervention is required.

Spaniel Diseases
Beautiful hanging ears are one of the weaknesses of cocker spaniels. They protect the sink well against small foreign objects, branches and insects, but inflammation can develop in the ear due to increased humidity. With otitis media and other ear pathologies, the dog scratches its ears, shakes its head, and discharge with an unpleasant odor may appear. Ear diseases can also be caused by parasites (ear mites). Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian, depending on the etiology of the disease.

Eye diseases
A cocker spaniel is at risk of developing an eye disease called dry eye syndrome. Dry keratoconjunctivitis occurs due to insufficient tear formation, accompanied by redness, irritation of the membrane. It is treated with medication.

In dogs of this breed, a third-century loss is also often recorded, the eyes turn red and swell (the pathology is also called the “cherry eye”). Surgical intervention is indicated. The edge of the eyelid can also bend inside the eye, causing pain in the pet. Requires surgery.

Inflammation of the eyes occurs due to the ingress of foreign objects, eyeball injuries, infections.

It is necessary to monitor the eyes of the dog, regularly wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in warm water.

If abundant discharge of yellow or brown color appears, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.

Hip Dysplasia
Dysplasia occurs due to the underdevelopment of the acetabulum or the destruction of the joints of the hip joint. It arises due to a genetic predisposition, malnutrition. Symptoms: lameness, unsteady gait, stiffness of movements, weakness. In the early stages, therapeutic treatment with chondroprotectors can help.