English Springer Spaniel Health Issues and How to Prevent Them

English Springer Spaniels are a beloved breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem in English Springer Spaniels, with 25% of the breed affected.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent hip dysplasia. This includes activities such as long walks and playtime in the yard. A balanced diet with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids can also help keep joints healthy.

English Springer Spaniels are also at risk for ear infections due to their floppy ears. Ear cleaning is a crucial part of their grooming routine to prevent infections. This should be done at least once a week, and after swimming or bathing.

Ear infections can be painful and potentially serious, so it's essential to catch them early.

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English Springer Spaniels are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet's breed. English Springer Spaniels are more at risk for certain conditions, but that doesn't mean your dog will have them.

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Some common health issues in English Springer Spaniels include infections such as parvo, rabies, and distemper, which are preventable through vaccination. Your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule based on the diseases prevalent in your area and your dog's age.

Here are some signs that your English Springer Spaniel may be experiencing a health issue:

Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or detect these issues early on.

English Springer Spaniels are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, the same ones that all dogs can get.

These infections include parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which veterinarians will recommend based on the diseases they see in the area, the dog's age, and other factors.

Regular vaccinations are a crucial part of keeping your English Springer Spaniel healthy and protected.

Cancer is a leading cause of death among dogs in their golden years, and unfortunately, your English Springer Spaniel is a bit more prone to certain kinds of cancer starting at a younger age.

Many cancers are curable by surgically removing them, and some types are even treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical, so we'll do periodic blood tests and look for lumps and bumps at each exam.

Your English Springer Spaniel is more at risk for certain cancers, but that doesn't mean she'll definitely get them. Knowing this information helps us plan for her unique medical needs and take steps to prevent or catch them early.

Seizures are a significant concern for English Springer Spaniels, with many dogs affected by this inherited condition. Seizures can be caused by a sudden surge of uncontrollable electrical activity within the brain.

There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by a brain's reaction to a metabolic problem, while secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma.

Primary, or idiopathic epilepsy, is a common issue seen in English Springer Spaniels, often beginning between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause.

Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue.

Here are some key points to remember about seizures in English Springer Spaniels:

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia is a common health issue in English Springer Spaniels.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis.

Stiffness in your Springer Spaniel's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures.

You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down.

We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain.

We'll take X-rays of your dog's bones to identify issues as early as possible.

Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases.

Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering!

If you notice symptoms such as lameness or limping, an abnormal gait, or a swollen joint, ask your vet for a screening.

Your English Springer Spaniel is a lovable and loyal companion, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health issues. Genetic-based disorders are not uncommon, and most are not life-threatening, but some can be more serious.

Some common health issues in English Springer Spaniels include genetic disorders, infections, and cancer. Brushing your dog's teeth daily can prevent periodontal disease.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to detect any potential health issues early on. Your vet will recommend vaccinations based on the diseases prevalent in your area, your dog's age, and other factors.

Here are some key signs to watch out for:

Keep in mind that many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your English Springer Spaniel needs help. Early detection is critical, especially when it comes to cancer, which is a leading cause of death among dogs in their golden years.

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English Springer Spaniels are prone to various eye problems, including glaucoma, which can be extremely painful and lead to blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, and redness in the whites of the eyes.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Springer Spaniels, and they can be treated with surgery to remove the cataracts and restore sight. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease that affects English Springer Spaniels, causing the eyes to be genetically programmed to go blind. PRA is not painful but not curable, and early symptoms such as night blindness or dilated pupils typically begin around three to five years of age.

Their long, floppy ears also make English Springer Spaniels susceptible to ear infections, which can be prevented by keeping their ears clean and dry. Ear infections require vet treatment and medication to restore a healthy ear canal.

Regular ear trimming and cleaning can help improve air flow and reduce the risk of ear infections.

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English Springer Spaniels can inherit or develop eye conditions that may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful!

Glaucoma is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Springer Spaniels. We'll watch for the lenses of his eyes to become more opaque when we examine him.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease in which the eyes are genetically programmed to go blind. Unfortunately, English Springer Spaniels are a bit more likely than other dogs to have this condition.

PRA is not painful, but also not curable. In dogs with the bad gene, early symptoms such as night blindness or dilated pupils generally begin around three to five years of age.

If you notice changes in your dog's eyes, such as discharge, it's best to call your vet.

English Springer Spaniels are particularly susceptible to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears that decrease air circulation and trap moisture within the ear canal.

Their ears are a perfect breeding ground for bacterial and yeast infections, which can be painful and uncomfortable for your dog.

Common signs of an ear infection in dogs include redness, itching or scratching, having an odor, and head shaking.

These symptoms are often a sign that your dog needs veterinary treatment and medication to restore a healthy ear canal.

Chronic ear infections can also be a sign of allergies in dogs, so if your dog is prone to ear infections, it's essential to investigate other potential health issues.

Regular ear cleaning and drying can help prevent ear infections, and using a dog-specific ear cleaner can make a big difference.

English Springer Spaniels can be born with a variety of heart defects that affect the structure of the heart's dividing wall or the vessels. These defects can also cause problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or with heart valve function.

Some of these heart defects can lead to conditions like Patent Ductus Arteriosis, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close shortly after birth as it should. This results in too much blood being carried to the lungs, fluid build-up, and strain on the heart.

Springer Spaniels are also prone to bleeding disorders, including Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia, which occurs when the immune system attacks the pet's own red blood cells or platelets.

Springer Spaniels are susceptible to a condition called Patent Ductus Arteriosis, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close shortly after birth as it should.

This results in too much blood being carried to the lungs, fluid build-up, and strain on the heart. Outward signs may be mild or you may see coughing, fatigue during exercise, weight loss, shortness of breath, or weakness in the hind limbs.

We listen for a specific type of heart murmur to diagnose this problem during examinations. If your pal has this condition, surgery to close the problematic vessel may be recommended.

Some breeds like your Springer Spaniel can be born with a variety of heart defects, affecting the structure of the heart's dividing wall or vessels, or causing problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or heart valve function.

Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting.

Because of the significant risk of heart disease, we'll pay special attention to his heart during each examination, monitoring for any signs of trouble.

Bleeding Disorders can be a serious concern for English Springer Spaniels. Many types of inherited bleeding disorders occur in dogs, ranging from very mild to very severe.

English Springer Spaniels are particularly prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood. These disorders can lead to severe bleeding, especially after a serious injury or surgery.

Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia occurs when the immune system goes haywire and starts attacking the pet’s own red blood cells or platelets. This can cause anemia, weakness, and lethargy, and the gums may turn whitish or yellow instead of the normal bright pink color.

If the immune system destroys platelets, the blood won’t clot properly and the dog will have bruises or abnormal bleeding. In some cases, an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed.

Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in English Springer Spaniels. Diagnostic testing for blood clotting time or a specific DNA blood test can check for this problem before surgery.

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English Springer Spaniels are prone to obesity, a serious health problem that can cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

To keep your Springer healthy, it's essential to maintain a consistent diet and avoid giving her people food or doggie treats. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk. She'll feel better, and so will you!

A high-quality, calorically dense diet is crucial for active English Springer Spaniels. Choose a food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your dog's current life stage.

The amount of food your Springer needs varies depending on her lifestyle, age, weight, and activity level. Follow the manufacturer's feeding guide and consult with your vet to confirm you're feeding your English Springer Spaniel the right amount.

Here are some general guidelines for feeding your English Springer Spaniel:

Remember to always consult with your vet for personalized dietary recommendations.

English Springer Spaniels are a social breed that love to spend time with their humans and are eager to please, so make sure to give them plenty of attention and training.

They were bred as working dogs, so they need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. A big backyard or a park is ideal for them to stretch their fast-moving legs.

Their coat is medium-length and weather-proof, but it needs to be brushed once or twice a week to prevent matting and tangling.

You should watch your English Springer Spaniel's diet and make sure they get plenty of exercise, and brush their teeth and coat regularly. This will help keep them happy and healthy.

Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that your veterinarian recommends for your English Springer Spaniel. This will help prevent diseases and conditions that are common in Springer Spaniels.

English Springer Spaniels have an average lifespan of 12-14 years, which is normal for a medium-size dog. They lead healthy, happy lives and retain their vigor into old age.

Dental disease is a common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Your English Springer Spaniel is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth.

Tartar build-up on the teeth can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth, which can lead to serious health issues if not prevented or treated. Dental disease can damage your Spaniel's kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

Preventing dental disease is crucial, and regular teeth cleaning is essential. Your veterinarian will let you know what you can do at home to keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy.

Dental disease is a common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Your furry friend's dental health is crucial, and regular cleaning can make a big difference.

Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. This can lead to serious health issues, including kidney, liver, heart, and joint damage.

If left untreated, dental disease can shorten your dog's life span by one to three years. Prevention and regular care are key to maintaining your dog's dental health.

Regular dental cleaning is essential to prevent and treat dental disease. Your veterinarian will be able to clean your dog's teeth regularly and provide guidance on how to keep those pearly whites clean at home.

Parasites are a serious concern for your Springer's health. All kinds of worms and bugs can invade her body, inside and out.

Fleas, ticks, and ear mites can infest her skin and ears. These parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone.

Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito.

These parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so it's essential to test for them on a regular basis.

As you care for your English Springer Spaniel, it's essential to be aware of potential health issues. A change in appetite or water consumption can be a warning sign that your dog needs veterinary attention.

If you notice your dog's water consumption increasing or decreasing, it could be a sign of a serious underlying issue.

Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth are all signs that your dog's dental health may be suffering. Regular dental care is crucial to prevent these problems.

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Itchy skin, characterized by scratching, chewing, or licking, can be a sign of a skin issue or allergies. Hair loss can accompany itchy skin, making it even more noticeable.

Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping can be indicative of a larger health problem. If you notice your dog is sleeping more than usual, it's worth investigating.

Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes can be a sign that your dog is in pain or experiencing discomfort.

If you notice any of these signs in your English Springer Spaniel, seek medical care immediately:

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge can be indicative of an ear infection, which requires prompt attention to prevent further complications.

Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine are warning signs of a urinary tract issue, such as a blockage or infection.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can be a sign of an eye infection or other eye problems.

Fatigue during exercise, coughing, or shortness of breath can be symptoms of a respiratory issue, such as kennel cough or pneumonia.

Increased hunger and thirst, weight loss can be indicative of diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

Gums that are a color other than bright pink can be a sign of dental problems or gum disease.

Tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly or fainting/collapse can be symptoms of a variety of issues, including heart problems or anemia.

General reluctance to run or play can be a sign of pain or discomfort, which should be investigated by a veterinarian.

Any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors can be indicative of neurological problems, such as epilepsy or tremors.

Sudden aggressive episodes with no apparent cause require immediate attention from a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical issues.