The Belgian Shepherd Malinois stands out for having excellent he alth, a great physical resistance and a surprising intelligence. In fact, he is one of the working dogs that stands out the most, due to his multiple virtues and good he alth. In addition, when they receive adequate preventive medicine, these dogs rarely get sick and can enjoy a life expectancy of around 12 to 14 years.
Furthermore, these dogs have an enormous advantage over other sheepdogs and many other dog breeds. As its cognitive capacity has historically been more valued than its physical appearance, the Malinois Belgian Shepherd has not undergone such an intense genetic selection process as has happened, for example, with the German Shepherd. For this reason, it presents a low predisposition to suffering from hereditary diseases that commonly affect "pure" or pedigree dogs.
In this article on our site, we will explain what are the most common diseases in Belgian Malinois, so you can provide an optimum quality of life for your best friend. Keep reading!
Hip dysplasia in the Belgian Malinois
The hip dysplasia (or hip dysplasia) is one of the most common diseases in dogs, mainly in large and giant dogs. It develops from an inherited malformation of the coxofemoral bone structure, which joins the femur to the pelvic bone.
This degenerative process usually causes intense pain and lameness. Affected dogs demonstrate difficulty performing common activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or sitting. In more advanced cases, dysplasia leads to disability, and can even completely incapacitate the dog.
The Belgian Malinois is among the dog breeds prone to hip dysplasia. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant and go to the vet when you perceive that your furry has symptoms such as:
- Inactivity,
- Loss of interest in playing or exercising
- Excessive tiredness
- Difficulty performing simple movements (climbing stairs or sitting down)
- Limp
- Swings
- Slouching of the back
- Muscle stiffness in the hip and hind legs
Although genetic predisposition is the main cause of hip dysplasia in dogs, obesity in dogs and a sedentary lifestyle can also be considered risk factors. Therefore, it will be essential to always offer a balanced diet of excellent quality to your dog. Also, remember that the Belgian Malinois needs plenty of exercise to expend energy, maintain a he althy weight, and maintain balanced behavior.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a degenerative disease that can affect various animals, being more frequent in dogs and cats. The Belgian Malinois is among the breeds prone to developing retinal atrophy, the origin of which is hereditary.
The symptoms of retinal atrophy in dogs usually appear progressively and gradually, varying according to the breed of dog and the cells of the eye that are affected (rods, cones, or both). However, the most common symptoms of this canine disease are:
- Vision problems: The first symptom of retinal atrophy is usually loss of night vision (nyctalopia), since the rods are usually the first cells affected. Subsequently, the dog may also develop day blindness (hemeralopia). And in some cases, retinal atrophy also leads to difficulty perceiving moving objects.
- Pupillary dilation: Retinal atrophy causes certain "glitches" in the eye's response to light. For this reason, affected dogs may have frequently dilated pupils (mydriasis), and/or with a greenish, orange or yellowish coloration due to excess brightness (retinal hyperreflexia).
- Cataracts: this is a secondary consequence of retinal degeneration, developing from abnormal secretions produced by damage ocular.
Common diseases in the Belgian Malinois: retinal dysplasia
retinal dysplasia (RD) consists of a pathology that affects the eyes of dogs, causing the progressive deterioration of the visual ability. It appears after abnormal development of the retina, which is usually hereditary in most dogs. However, it can also be caused by contact with the herpes virus in the prenatal period. In addition, trauma, canine parvovirus, exposure to certain toxins, and excessive solar radiation are also listed as possible causes of retinal dysplasia in dogs.
When retinal dysplasia is mild, many dogs have no outward or visible symptoms. But in more advanced cases, some unusual behaviors may appear that reveal vision loss,such as bumping into objects while walking, avoiding entering darker regions, The Belgian Malinois is one of the breeds most prone to developing retinal dysplasia, as are the Beagle, Barking Retriever, Yorkshire Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Akita, and Rottweiler, among others. others. However, this disease can affect any dog, whether mixed-race or of a defined breed.
How to prevent diseases in dogs?
It is not always possible to prevent the appearance of certain diseases, especially those that are caused by a genetic or hereditary factor. However, the he alth of the Belgian Malinois Shepherd can be greatly benefited if we pay attention to the care of the Belgian Malinois Shepherd.
Likewise, regular visits to our veterinarian, vaccination, antiparasitic treatments (external and internal), complete and balanced nutrition, daily physical activity and optimal mental stimulation are key aspects for the well-being of Belgian Malinois Sheepdogs.
Now you know the most common diseases in the Belgian Malinois, but you may also want to know the possible symptoms of other common diseases in dogs. And do not forget that the articles on our site are merely informative, so they are not a substitute for veterinary care. When observing any alteration in the appearance or appearance of your dog, do not hesitate to consult your trusted veterinarian.
