Every dog breed has a genetic disposition toward certain diseases. Dogs who weigh more than 60 pounds are considered to be large breed dogs. These dogs are commonly affected by medical conditions related to their sudden growth spurt as puppies, as well as the large amounts of food they consume at every meal. Large breeds that often encounter the same intestinal diseases include Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, Great Danes, Labrador retrievers and German Shepherd dogs.
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Gastric Dilatation Volvulus
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Gastric dilatation volvulus, otherwise known as bloat or torsion, is a life-threatening emergency condition during which the entrance and exit of the stomach twists, trapping gas and fluid inside. Time is of the essence when this condition strikes; the more swollen the stomach gets, the less likely that emergency surgery will save the animal. Symptoms include unsuccessful attempts at vomiting, a swollen stomach, drooling and restlessness. Dogs with deep chests, such as German Shepherds and Great Danes, are most likely to be affected by this condition, and if a dog survives a bloat episode, there is a strong chance it will happen again. To prevent bloat, always feed your dog several small meals throughout the day instead of a large single meal, do not allow your dog to gulp food and restrict water intake and exercise for at least an hour after eating.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
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The condition known as Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) affects mostly German Shepherd dogs. About 70 percent of all Shepherds are lacking a pancreatic enzyme that promotes proper food digestion in the small intestine. As a result, a dog affected cannot receive or absorb food nutrients, resulting in runny stools and potentially life-threatening malnourishment. Symptoms include extreme thirst, sudden weight loss and loose, yellow colored stools. EPI cannot be cured but it can be managed with digestive enzymes and a bland diet.
Megasophagus
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Megasophagus is a condition that can strike any breed, but most often affects large dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, golden retrievers and greyhounds. This condition occurs when food cannot pass through the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. When the esophagus becomes dilated, food will sit there until the dog passively regurgitates it. Most often it shows up in young dogs who have the congenital form of the disease, which scientists believe is caused by incomplete nerve development in the esophagus. Dogs who inherit congenital megasophagus are more likely to be cured of the condition than dogs who acquire it later in life. Acquired megasophagus usually happens as a result of nerve damage to the esophagus, from disease conditions such as tumors.
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