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...page 2 Health Concerns for the Boxer Dog
Gastric Dilation/Bloat ~ Boxers are particularly prone to bloat. Bloat occurs when air (gas) gets trapped in the stomach and it actually can twist. Blood supply to the stomach is cut off. If your dog does not get medical attention immediately at the onset, he will die. Bloat can occur if your Boxer engages in exercise before or after eating and drinking. It also happens when your dog eats too quickly. You can help lessen the chance of this LIFE THREATENING condition, by placing large toys (too big for your dog to pick up or push out of the bowl) in your dog's food dish, so he has to eat around them, thus slowing down his pace. Feeding your dog twice a day is always the appropriate recommendation, as he will not be "starving" and will be less likely to scarf his food down quickly. Never let your Boxer exercise or rough house directly before or after meals. Do not let your Boxer gulp down water. It's best to offer little bits and refill throughout the day. Hip Dysplasia ~ This is a genetically transmitted problem of the hip joint. Dysplastic hips promote degenerative joint disease which can eventually incapacitate the joint. Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery are all options depending on the dog and the severity. Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis ~ This is a "chronic inflammatory disease of the bowel that occurs almost exclusively in the Boxer." It is believed to be genetic in cause. Younger Boxers seem to be affected and develop severe diarrhea. Diagnosis is through a biopsy of the colon. There is no cure and the condition is life-long. Cushing's Syndrome ~ The body produces too much cortisol. In most cases, the condition results from a tumor in the pituitary gland of the brain. It is usually seen in middle-aged to older dogs. Some signs are: increased thirst, hunger and need for urination, hair loss, muscle atrophy and lack of energy. There are several screening tests for Cushing's Syndrome.
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