Understanding the Health and Care of Your Broholmer

Quick answer

The Broholmer is a powerful and calm companion that requires thoughtful management to thrive. While they are generally robust, they are prone to specific orthopedic and systemic health challenges. By focusing on maintaining a lean body condition, providing consistent training, and monitoring for sudden changes in behavior or mobility, you can ensure your dog receives the best possible care throughout their life.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a recognised tendency in the breed. This condition involves the improper development of the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility. At home, you might notice your dog struggling to rise from a lying position, showing a reluctance to climb stairs, or displaying an unusual gait when walking or running. The vet will perform a physical examination to check for joint laxity and will typically use radiographs to confirm the diagnosis. Keeping your dog at a lean body weight is the most effective way to reduce the mechanical stress on these joints. If you notice a sudden change in how your dog moves, schedule an appointment to assess their comfort levels.

Elbow Dysplasia

Similar to the hips, elbow dysplasia is a recognised tendency in the breed. This condition affects the elbow joint and can cause persistent lameness or stiffness. You may observe your dog favoring one front leg or appearing stiff after a period of rest. A veterinarian will examine the range of motion in the elbow and often uses imaging to determine the extent of the joint changes. Providing flooring with good traction in your home can help prevent unnecessary strain on these joints. If your dog begins to limp or shows signs of pain during daily activities, have their joints evaluated promptly.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, is a recognised tendency in the breed. This is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. You will notice your dog attempting to vomit without producing anything, pacing restlessly, or showing a visibly distended and hard abdomen. This condition requires immediate emergency veterinary intervention. The vet will stabilize the dog and perform imaging to confirm the twist. To help manage the risk, avoid vigorous exercise immediately after meals and consider feeding smaller, more frequent portions rather than one large meal.

Heart Conditions

Various heart conditions are a recognised tendency in the breed. These issues can be subtle in the early stages, making them difficult to detect without professional help. You might notice your dog tiring more easily than usual, coughing, or showing a lack of interest in exercise. A veterinarian will listen for heart murmurs or irregular rhythms during routine check-ups. If a concern is identified, they may recommend an echocardiogram to visualize the heart structure and function. Monitoring your dog's breathing rate while they are resting at home can provide useful information for your vet.