Top Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues and How to Avoid Them

Bernese Mountain Dogs possess a great temperament and are known for being hardworking and having a very beautiful tricolor. On the other hand, having one of these great dogs is also a responsibility to provide health care and understand the unique health needs of animals. Like any other breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are the ones that often suffer from particular health problems that may at times be the reason for their early death or decrease in their quality of life.

Bernese Mountain Dogs and Their Needs

Before getting into specific health conditions, let’s first discuss the breed’s lineage and genetic vulnerabilities. Bernese Mountain Dog are Originally bred in the Swiss Alps as farm and draft dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large working breed known for their loyalty and calm demeanor. But their size and genetic background also renders them prone to some health conditions, which owners should be aware of.

Why Understanding Their Health Is Important  

Doing proactive things and getting informed about health issues are crucial. Getting to know more from the early stage, proper and adequate medical care, and the alterations in one’s existence can delay or prevent certain problems from happening.

Common Health Issues in Bernese Mountain Dogs  

1. Hip Dysplasia  

Understanding Hip Dysplasia  

Hip dysplasia is a hip disease being passed from parents to their children that occurs when a hip joint does not fit properly into the hip socket. As a result of this hip dislocation, the joint wears off resulting in skeletal changes and high pain levels. Only the doctor may send to you the exact cause of this and the best treatment options.

Symptoms  

• Lameness in hind legs  
• Difficulty standing or climbing stairs  
• Limping or stiffness after exercise  

Prevention  

• Purchase from breeders who test for hip dysplasia in their dogs.  
• Regular vet check-ups, ideally including hip X-rays.
• Keep weight in check to lower the strain on your joints.
• Incorporate low-impact exercise like swimming to strengthen muscles without stressing the joints.  

Treatment Options  

Weight control, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, or really worst-case surgery might be the treatment according to the severity of the problem. Apart from non-medicinal therapies, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can be helpful for joints to function properly.

2. Elbow Dysplasia  

What Is Elbow Dysplasia?  

Elbow dysplasia occurs when the elbow joint develops abnormally, leading to pain and lameness. This condition is especially common in large breeds.  

Signs to Look For  

• Stiffness or limping, particularly after activity.  
• Swelling around the elbow joint.  
• Reduced mobility or reluctance to move.  

Prevention  

• Proper diet to avoid rapid growth in puppies.  
• Avoid over-exercising young dogs with developing joints.  
• Early screenings through X-rays can reveal issues before symptoms arise.  

Treatment and Management  

Options depend on the severity but range from medical management with pain relief and joint supplements to surgical intervention. Physical and hydrotherapy can provide additional support.  

3. Cancer  

Prevalence of Cancer in Bernese Mountain Dogs  

Bernese Mountain Dogs unfortunately have one of the highest cancer rates among all breeds. Types of cancer commonly seen include lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma.  

Recognizing the Signs  

• Unexplained lumps or bumps  
• Sudden weight loss  
• Decreased appetite or energy levels  

Prevention and Care  

While cancer cannot always be prevented due to genetic factors, regular vet check-ups play a critical role in early detection. Feeding a balanced diet rich in antioxidants may support long-term health, and spaying/neutering can reduce certain cancer risks.  

Treatment  

Treatment options have been reported to vary from surgery to radiation therapy, and in some cases, chemotherapy according to the Nature magazine. Palliative care, which mainly consists of pain management and life quality treatment, is crucial in advanced cases.

4. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)  

What Is Bloat?  

Bloat is an excessive situation where the stomach fills with gas, loops in and cuts off blood supply, which is life-threatening condition. Definite cases of this condition require emergency attention.

Symptoms to Watch For  

• A visibly distended belly  
• Restlessness or pacing  
• Excessive drooling or retching without vomiting  

Prevention  

• Feed your Bernese smaller, more frequent meals instead of large servings.  
• Avoid exercise immediately after meals.  
• Consider a gastropexy surgery if your dog is at high risk.  

What to Do During an Episode  

If you suspect bloat, act quickly and bring your dog to an emergency vet. Surgery will usually be required to untwist the stomach.  

5. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)  

What Is PRA?  

PRA is a genetic vision disorder in which the vision gradually diminishes, and it is ultimately blindness.

Symptoms  

• Difficulty navigating in low light or at night.  
• Bumping into objects.  

Prevention  

• Conduct regular eye exams, especially with a veterinary ophthalmologist.  
• Genetic testing before breeding to eliminate PRA carriers.  

Management  

There’s no cure for PRA, but dogs adapt extremely well to vision loss. Keep their environment safe and consistent, and use verbal cues during walks or play.  

6. Hypothyroidism  

What Is Hypothyroidism?  

The condition characterizes the thyroid gland’s inability to produce adequate hormones, which has an impact on metabolism.

Symptoms  

• Weight gain without increased appetite  
• Lethargy or low energy  
• Coat thinning or skin infections  

Prevention and Treatment  

Routine blood tests can identify hypothyroidism early. It is typically managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy coupled with regular check-ups.  

7. Joint and Bone Problems (Other than Dysplasia)  

Arthritis and Osteoarthritis  

Bernese Mountain Dogs often develop joint issues as they age due to their size. Maintaining a healthy weight with joint-targeted diets can reduce stress on their joints.  

Symptoms  

• Reluctance to play or move  
• Stiffness that improves with movement  
• Visible pain when walking  

Preventive strategies include providing supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine, as well as access to non-slip flooring and supportive beds.  

Preventive Care Is Key  

Why Regular Vet Visits Are Essential  

Routine check-ups and diagnostic screenings can catch diseases before they progress. Discuss breed-specific health risks during appointments and follow your vet’s recommendations carefully.  

Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention  

Keep your fur babies healthy and content by making sure they are current on their vaccinations and year-round parasite prevention, this includes flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives.

Lifestyle Adjustments  

• Feed a well-balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight.  
• Invest in proper exercise routines, avoiding overly strenuous activities in puppies and seniors.  
• Ensure access to clean water and a stress-free environment.  

Helping Your Bernese Mountain Dog Thrive  

Keeping a Bernese Mountain Dog is both a gratifying and a tough job. You can give them the best quality of life by being ready, watchful, and knowledgeable. Besides dealing with well-known health issues, you need to install daily vet check-ups, every move you make today will lead to more happy and healthy years together.

For more insights on dog care, check out Should You Crack a Raw Egg Over Your Dog’s Food? and Dogs and Vomiting Undigested Food.