English Cocker Spaniel Health
English Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to a number of diseases. Therefore, if you take a puppy, ask if the parents have test results for the following diseases:
Collapse caused by physical exertion. This hereditary disease is currently recognized as a syndrome. The English Cocker Spaniel, suffering from this disease, copes well with moderate loads, but exercises associated with high energy costs, after 5 – 15 minutes, lead to swaying, loss of control over the hind limbs, sometimes paralysis of all 4 legs. If you give the dog a rest, then after 10 – 30 minutes she returns to normal, but there is also a fatal outcome. As a rule, the first symptoms appear at the age of 5 months – 3 years. Most often, active, easily excitable dogs suffer from this disease.
Degenerative myelopathy is a serious illness that results in hind limb paralysis. The first symptoms appear in adult dogs (most often in 8-14 years old). Early manifestations: limb weakness, shuffling on asphalt. Then the dog begins to have difficulty standing up, loses balance, and tail mobility disappears. As a rule, the disease lasts no more than 3 years, then paralysis occurs. There is no cure.
Phosphofructokinase deficiency is a disease that leads to a general weakening of the body of the English Cocker Spaniel. Symptoms: anemia, muscle weakness, cramping and cramping. There is no treatment at the moment.
Progressive retinal atrophy is a hereditary disease that leads to blindness. Outwardly, the eyes of the English Cocker Spaniel suffering from this disease look normal, but you can see that the dog is difficult to navigate in the dark, and then in the light. The treatment has not yet been developed. However, the dog is able to compensate for blindness due to other senses.
Hyperuricosuria is a disease characterized by the accumulation of uric acid salts and the formation of stones.
The long ears of the English Cocker Spaniel need regular inspection and cleaning, as these dogs are prone to otitis.
In any case, closely monitor the behavior and well-being of the English Cocker Spaniel. If you notice warning signs, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
