Do Great Pyrenees have health problems?
The Great Pyrenees is a relatively healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health problems that might affect Great Pyrenees include:
- Hip dysplasia: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia affects the elbow joint, causing lameness and pain.
- Cataracts: A common eye condition that causes cloudiness in the eye and obstructs vision
- Progressive retinal atrophy: A progressive degenerative disease affecting the retina that eventually leads to blindness.
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with air, cutting off blood flow. Bloat or suspected bloat is a medical emergency.
- Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer that can affect large and giant breeds like the Great Pyrenees.
- Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing lameness and pain.
- Degenerative myelopathy: A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can lead to weakness and paralysis in the hind limbs.
- Heart conditions: Great Pyrenees are prone to certain heart conditions, such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a disease that affects the heart muscle’s ability to pump blood effectively