Are Clumber Spaniels healthy?
Although Clumber Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, there are some conditions that can affect the breed. Health conditions seen in Clumber Spaniels include:
- Hip dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis or lameness over time.
- Elbow dysplasia: A developmental abnormality in the elbow joint that can cause lameness and arthritis.
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD): A spinal condition that can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis in severe cases.
- Entropion and ectropion: Condition where the eyelid rolls inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion), causing irritation or damage to the eye.
- Ear infections: Clumber Spaniels have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections if not kept clean and dry.
- Hypothyroidism: A thyroid gland disorder that can affect metabolism and overall health.
- Immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA): A serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells, leading to anemia.