Do Collies have health problems?
Like all purebred dogs, Collies are prone to certain genetic health issues. Some common health concerns in Collies include:
- Collie eye anomaly (CEA): CEA is a genetic eye condition that affects Collies. It can range from mild to severe and may cause vision impairment or blindness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA is another inherited eye disorder that can lead to progressive vision loss and, eventually, blindness.
- Hip dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, including Collies. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability and arthritis.
- Epilepsy: Collies develop epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
- Dermatomyositis: This is a genetic skin condition that primarily affects Collies and related breeds. It can cause skin lesions, hair loss, and muscle inflammation.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in large and deep-chested breeds like Collies. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can lead to rapid onset of shock and organ damage.