Potential Corgi Health Problems

Corgi Health Problems

When it comes to Corgi health problems, it is much easier and more cost effective to practice preventative medicine than to fight bouts of illness and disease. When possible have your puppy examined by the same veterinarian that cared for the dam since many infections and parasites can be passed from the dam to the pup. During this initial visit a vaccination schedule should be established. Vaccinations help to protect your Corgi against viruses. Unfortunately these vaccinations are no guarantee that your pup will remain healthy. Below is a list of common Corgi health problems and how to recognize and respond to them.

Potential Corgi Health Problems

Corgis can suffer from many of the same physical and psychological maladies as humans. Unlike human children who can express discomfort when they're sick, our Corgi kids cannot tell us when they are feeling ill. If you can recognize the signs of illness before they become too severe, you may be able to ward off a costly visit to your vet.

Skin Problems - The number of skin problems that can affect your dog is so high that dermatology has evolved as its own veterinary specialty. Your Corgi's skin is just as sensitive as human skin and can be irritated by many of the same triggers. Many dogs can have reactions to parasite bites such as fleas, ticks and/or mites. The bites can itch, erupt and in worst cases become infected. Dogs can also have seasonal and/or food allergies. They react in much of the same way to a parasite bite by scratching and biting themselves. This can make diagnosis difficult. If you suspect a food allergy you can potentially diagnose the condition yourself by switching your dog's food for an entire month. For example, if chicken is the main ingredient in your dog's diet switch to a food with lamb as the primary ingredient. If the symptoms disappear it is highly likely your dog has a food allergy/intolerance.

Obesity - Studies show that nearly 30% of canines are overweight and this is a very common Corgi health problem. This is due to the same cause of overweight in people; high caloric intake and low amounts of exercise. Your Corgi should have a visible waist. The abdomen should not be extended and there should be no fatty deposits on the hips or hindquarters. Your Corgi's weight should be monitored closely because Corgi weight problems are linked to various other diseases.

Back and Joint Problems - Corgis are more susceptible to back and joint problems due to their long backs and short legs. Certain Corgi bloodlines are more sensitive to ruptured disc syndrome and hip dysplasia. A dog displaying signs of a ruptured disc will be in extreme pain and in some cases have partial or complete paralysis of the hindquarters. The pain and paralysis are caused by the pressure of the ruptured disc against the spinal column. A dog affected by hip dysplasia can display a range of discomfort from mild to severely crippling. Some dogs may have difficulty getting up, walk with a limp or have tenderness in the hip area. Hip dysplasia is a developmental disease and cannot be avoided. But to avoid other back and joint problems, while your Corgi is growing rapidly (less than a year old) he should avoid high-impact games and exercises. You should make sure that your Corgi does not have the opportunity to jump off high places, i.e. beds, furniture, stairs, etc.

Along with these various joint problems comes arthritis. The pain associated with your Corgi's arthritis is due to inflammation of the affected joint. If you hate watching your pet's quality of life suffer due to this disease you can try All-Natural Pet Bounce, a homeopathic remedy for your pet's joint pain.

Eye Problems - Corgis frequently experience eye problems. Progressive retinal atrophy is the most common disease affecting Corgis. It does not usually affect the dog until after 6 years of age. It is a degenerative disease that will eventually render the dog blind. Secondary glaucoma is also prevalent in the Corgi. With glaucoma there is an increased pressure within the eye that causes the eyeball to become swollen and painful. It is important to examine your dog's eyes regularly. During the examination you should look for excessive tearing, mucus or cloudiness. If you notice any abnormalities, report them to your vet immediately.

Cystitis - Corgis are pone to this condition which causes severe inflammation in the bladder. If cystitis is present, the dog may whine during urination. Always having clean, fresh water available can help prevent cystitis otherwise the condition can easily be treated with antibiotics.

Remember that your dog depends on you for their well-being. Providing proper nutrition, exercise and parasite control will help keep your dog from being susceptible to many dangerous diseases. Along with a healthy diet many breeders and vets recommend adding vitamins to your dog's diet. This regimen along with maintaining an appropriate vaccination schedule and annual check-ups with your vet will aid in a lifetime of happiness for you and your pet as well as avoid many of the common corgi health problems listed above.

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