When it comes to boxer dogs, there are a few common health problems that you should be aware of. These include Arthritis, Thyroid disease, Hip dysplasia, and Skin cancer. While some of these symptoms may be mild, they are important to be aware of. If your dog is limping a lot, this is a sign that something is wrong.
Arthritis
Arthritis in Boxers is a common condition that can be debilitating to your pet. Arthritis causes joints throughout the body to wear out and become inflamed. Arthritis can become apparent as early as a few months of age, and it can affect your dog’s ability to move around. Joint inflammation and pain can make your pet act out and show aggressive behavior. If you suspect that your Boxer has arthritis, you should visit a veterinarian. He can help diagnose and treat the condition, as well as prescribe glucosamine.
Thyroid disease
Thyroid disease in Boxer dogs is a common medical condition affecting the breed. It is a condition caused by the failure of the thyroid gland, which produces two hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. In this condition, the levels of the thyroid hormone decrease to a non-existent level. The most common type of thyroid disease in Boxers is called primary hypothyroidism. Symptoms of this disease include itchy skin and weight gain. Your veterinarian can diagnose this condition by ordering a special panel of tests for thyroid function.
Skin cancer
Boxer dogs are not immune to skin cancer. There are several different types of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, and mast cell tumors. The symptoms and treatment options vary depending on the type of tumor and its location. If you suspect your dog has skin cancer, consult a veterinarian for an examination.
Inflammatory bowel disease
Known as “Boxer colitis,” this type of gastrointestinal disease (IBD) is more common in male dogs than in female Boxers. Common symptoms include anorexia, diarrhea, cachexia, and vomiting. Fresh blood in the stool is also common. There may also be hypoalbuminemia. Rectal scrape cytology may be helpful for diagnosis. Other symptoms may include enlarged lymph nodes and draining skin lesions.
Seizures
A dog can have a seizure if the electrical activity in the brain suddenly increases. It is often the result of a traumatic incident. A tumor in the CNS can also cause seizures, especially in older dogs. An examination for seizures by a veterinarian can help rule out other underlying causes of the disorder.
Mast cell tumors
Boxers have an unusual predisposition to mast cell tumors compared to most breeds. A study conducted by Cohen et al. in 1974 showed that boxers are more likely to develop this type of tumor than most other breeds. Mast cell tumors represent the second most common malignant tumor in dogs. On average, they affect 129 dogs per 100,000 insured or 20 percent of all skin tumors. Surgical removal of the primary tumor is the most common treatment for this type of cancer.
