BERNEDOODLE GROWING HEALTH ISSUES /SOLUTIONS

Bernedoodles, a cross between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, are generally healthy dogs but can inherit certain health issues from either parent breed. These health concerns can range from genetic disorders to common ailments. Early detection and management are crucial to keeping your Bernedoodle healthy and comfortable. Below are some common health issues that Bernedoodles may face, along with possible solutions.

1. Hip Dysplasia

  • Cause: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
  • Symptoms: Lameness, stiffness, difficulty standing up or climbing stairs.
  • Solution:
    • Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor joint health.
    • Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.
    • Weight management to reduce stress on joints.
    • In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

2. Elbow Dysplasia

  • Cause: A developmental condition in which the bones of the elbow joint don’t align properly, leading to arthritis.
  • Symptoms: Limping, difficulty with movement, and pain in the elbow.
  • Solution:
    • Early diagnosis through X-rays or physical exams.
    • Anti-inflammatory medication to manage pain.
    • Surgery for severe cases.
    • Joint supplements and weight management.

3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

  • Cause: A degenerative eye disease that leads to blindness.
  • Symptoms: Difficulty seeing in low light, gradual loss of vision.
  • Solution:
    • Regular eye exams by a veterinarian.
    • PRA is irreversible, but dogs can adapt to limited vision.
    • Ensure a safe environment by removing obstacles and using commands to guide the dog.

4. Hypothyroidism

  • Cause: An underactive thyroid can cause a range of issues, from weight gain to lethargy.
  • Symptoms: Weight gain, dull coat, lethargy, skin problems.
  • Solution:
    • Blood tests to diagnose thyroid issues.
    • Lifelong medication to replace thyroid hormones.
    • Regular monitoring to ensure proper dosage.

5. Addison’s Disease

  • Cause: A disorder in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones.
  • Symptoms: Lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dehydration.
  • Solution:
    • Blood tests to check for hormone levels.
    • Lifelong medication to regulate adrenal function.
    • Regular vet visits for hormone level checks.

6. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

  • Cause: A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas.
  • Symptoms: Swollen abdomen, restlessness, drooling, vomiting.
  • Solution:
    • Emergency veterinary care is needed.
    • To prevent bloat, avoid vigorous exercise after meals, and consider feeding smaller meals more frequently.
    • In some cases, a surgical procedure (gastropexy) can be done to prevent the stomach from twisting again.

7. Allergies

  • Cause: Food allergies, environmental allergens like pollen, or flea-related allergies.
  • Symptoms: Itchy skin, ear infections, watery eyes, or gastrointestinal upset.
  • Solution:
    • Identifying and avoiding allergens.
    • Medications like antihistamines or steroids may help.
    • Hypoallergenic foods for food allergies.
    • Regular grooming to remove allergens from the coat.

8. Ear Infections

  • Cause: Bernedoodles have floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris, leading to infections.
  • Symptoms: Itchy ears, discharge, bad smell, or redness inside the ear.
  • Solution:
    • Regular ear cleaning and checking for debris or wax buildup.
    • Use vet-approved ear cleaners.
    • If infections are recurrent, your vet may recommend a special medication or further testing for underlying causes.

9. Cancer

  • Cause: Bernedoodles are at higher risk for certain cancers, particularly due to their Bernese Mountain Dog lineage.
  • Symptoms: Lumps or bumps, unexplained weight loss, lethargy, or changes in behavior.
  • Solution:
    • Regular vet exams and early detection.
    • Surgical removal of tumors when possible.
    • Chemotherapy or other treatments based on the type of cancer.

10. Skin Issues (Hot Spots, Seborrhea, etc.)

  • Cause: Due to their dense coat, Bernedoodles may be prone to skin issues, especially if they have allergies.
  • Symptoms: Red, inflamed, or scaly skin, hair loss, or hot spots (localized, painful skin infections).
  • Solution:
    • Regular grooming and coat care.
    • Medicated shampoos to treat skin conditions.
    • Allergy management or flea prevention.

General Health Tips for Bernedoodles:

  1. Proper Nutrition: Feed your Bernedoodle high-quality dog food to ensure they are getting the right nutrients for growth, energy, and coat health.
  2. Regular Exercise: Regular walks, play, and mental stimulation help keep your dog healthy and prevent obesity.
  3. Routine Vet Visits: Regular check-ups are key for early detection of any issues.
  4. Grooming: Bernedoodles can have a wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce the risk of skin issues.
  5. Genetic Testing: If you are buying a Bernedoodle from a breeder, ensure that they perform genetic testing on the parents to reduce the risk of passing on hereditary conditions.

By being proactive with health care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your Bernedoodle, you can help ensure a long, happy, and active life for your furry companion.

HEALTH GUARANTEE

To the best of the seller’s knowledge this puppy is sound and in good health. It is understood that the puppy is to be taken to a licensed veterinarian within 1 week of the purchase. If the puppy is not examined by a vet of the buyer’s choice within 1 week from purchase, this contract is null and void.

 

 

If the puppy is found to have a genetic disorder by the veterinarian within the first 2 years of the puppy’s life, we will replace the puppy at no cost to the buyer. We provide this warranty for two years after the date of sale against any debilitating congenital defects. In the event the puppy exhibits symptoms of a suspected debilitating congenital defect, the buyer must supply any requested veterinary records to the seller within seven days of informing the seller of the defect. We have the right to require a second opinion from a veterinarian of the seller’s choice at the seller’s expense.

 

 

Hypoglycemia, malnutrition, dehydration, and physical exhaustion are not covered under the terms of this contract.

 

You as the owner are required to: give all immunizations (including rabies), keep them on a regular worming schedule that your vet recommends, check for internal parasites every three months until one year of age, start the puppy on heartworm prevention between four and six months of age. Please understand that although your puppy has been on a regular worming schedule the stress of the move can bring out conditions that were dormant. These conditions are all treatable and your puppy will just need a little time to adjust to being in his/her new home.

 

 

For purposes of this agreement, once the puppy leaves the sellers premises, it is under the buyer’s responsibility and the seller is no longer responsible for any veterinary bills. If any treatment is rendered it is at the expense of the buyer.

 

 

Seller is bound only to the original buyer. No warranties expressed or implied are made under the terms of the contract except as stated above.

the buyer, agree to take my puppy to a licensed vet within 1 week of purchase to validate this written contract. I also understand the care instructions and have been provided with sufficient information in regards to the puppy. If for any reason I have a question, I realize I can contact the seller directly. I have read the above contract in full and understand all the terms.

 

 

REFUNDS:

If perchance something would happen to your puppy while you have a deposit on it, we would let you pick another puppy, use it for a future litter, or simply have the deposit refunded. If, however, you would default and not want the puppy after all, your deposit would then be used to help locate a new home for him/her. We want to be reasonable and would make allowances or give a refund for circumstances outside your control.