What health problems do Old English Sheepdogs have?
Old English Sheepdogs, like all purebred dogs, are prone to certain health issues. Some common health problems that can affect Old English Sheepdogs include:
- Hip dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and arthritis.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to degenerate over time, leading to vision loss and blindness.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens, which can impair vision.
- Hypothyroidism: A thyroid malfunction that results in low hormone production.
- Sebaceous adenitis: A genetic skin disease that causes very scaly dry skin and hair loss.
- Deafness: Congenital deafness in Old English Sheepdogs can be linked to genetic factors. Dogs with a white or merle coat pattern are more prone to congenital deafness.