Having a Pit Bull as your pet can be a great feeling. Though these small-sized dogs can be very aggressive but proper training from an early age can nip that in the bud. Despite being ferocious, they can be extremely friendly especially if you’re his pet parent. In this blog we will explore few common health problems in Pit Bulls.
While these tiny little munchkins make a wonderful family pet, they have some serious health problems which might affect them and could possibly be fatal.
Common Pit Bull Health Issues
Pit Bulls make great pets but they are highly susceptible to health issues. The common ones affecting Pit Bulls are listed below:
1. Allergies
These breeds of dogs are prone to various allergies such as food allergy or skin allergy. Pit bulls can be allergic to food items like beef, eggs, chicken, soy, dairy products, whole wheat, and various other food items. Skin allergies can occur from dog shampoos and environmental factors. If you suspect anything, then get an allergy test done because some allergies can be very fatal.
2. Diabetes
This is an age-old disease affecting most breeds of dogs. So what is Diabetes? Well, diabetes is a condition when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to break the sugar down. You may not know this but even ingredients such as vegetables and fruits contain levels of sugar. These sugars are essential in providing energy to the body. So when the body finds it hard to extract sugar, Diabetes is said to have already kicked in.
3. Hip Dysplasia
Large breeds of dogs including Pit bulls can suffer from hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joints fail to develop properly. Hip dysplasia in dogs can be heredity so consult a vet and get tests done if you suspect any discomforts in your Fido’s walking style. Since this disease occurs in the adult stage, it can be avoided if you take proper care during the pit bulls’ younger days. Start by feeding your young pit bull proper nutritious puppy food.
4. Heart Problem
Heart issues are more or less very common these days. Like hip dysplasia, this particular disease is also heredity. Heart problems are the root cause of many diseases and their symptoms can be very confusing. For example, if your pit bull coughs excessively, you might think it is something to do with his lungs or respiratory system but it could be a heart problem. Hence, whenever you suspect minor symptoms, make sure you rush to the vet because it might be a heart-related issue especially if your pet’s background tells you so.
As you can see, the above health issues can be fatal if not detected properly. Thus, ensure you pick on the symptoms as early as possible. A better way to do that is to go for regular vet check-ups (say, twice a month or even more). You need to take protective measures to ensure your pal is safe at all times. He totally counts on you and we know for sure you’re doing your best!
FAQs
Q1. What are the most common health problems in Pit Bulls?
A. The most common health problems in Pit Bulls include allergies, hip dysplasia, diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions require early detection and regular vet check-ups.
Q2. Are allergies a serious health problem in Pit Bulls?
A. Yes, allergies are among the top health problems in Pit Bulls. They may react to certain foods like chicken or wheat, as well as shampoos or environmental allergens.
Q3. Can hip dysplasia be prevented in Pit Bulls?
A. Hip dysplasia is one of the inherited health problems in Pit Bulls. While it cannot be fully prevented, a proper diet, weight management, and early vet care can reduce its impact.
Q4. Do Pit Bulls suffer from diabetes?
A. Yes, diabetes is a common health problem in Pit Bulls, especially in older dogs or those with obesity. Symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and weight changes.
Q5. How can I reduce the risk of heart problems in Pit Bulls?
A. Since heart disease is a common health problem in Pit Bulls, preventive care includes a nutritious diet, exercise, and regular check-ups to catch symptoms early.