Understanding Health Risks in the Keeshond

Quick answer

The Keeshond is a sturdy and alert companion, but like all breeds, it has specific health conditions that owners should monitor. This guide covers the heart conditions associated with the breed, providing you with the tools to perform proactive home health checks and know when to seek professional veterinary care. By tracking your dog's baseline health, you can act quickly if you notice any concerning changes.

Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is a complex heart condition that is well recognised in the breed. This condition affects how blood flows through the heart and lungs, which can impact your dog's overall energy levels and stamina.

At home, you might notice that your Keeshond tires much more easily than expected during play or exercise. You may also observe signs of weakness or difficulty breathing after only light activity. In some cases, owners report that their dog seems to have a bluish tint to the gums or tongue, which indicates that the body is not receiving enough oxygenated blood.

When you visit the vet, they will listen to your dog's chest with a stethoscope to check for a heart murmur. If a murmur is detected, the vet will likely recommend an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart. This test allows the vet to visualize the structure of the heart and confirm the diagnosis. Urgency is determined by the severity of the symptoms; if your dog collapses or experiences extreme difficulty breathing, this is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Ventricular Septal Defect

Ventricular Septal Defect, often referred to as a VSD, is a condition involving an opening in the wall that separates the two lower chambers of the heart. This is a recognised tendency in the breed rather than a proven one.

Owners often do not notice outward signs of a VSD in the early stages, especially if the defect is small. However, as the heart works harder to compensate for the abnormal blood flow, you might notice your dog breathing faster than normal while resting, or perhaps an exercise intolerance that develops over time. Some dogs may also exhibit a persistent, dry cough.

Your vet will typically identify this condition during a routine physical examination by detecting a heart murmur. Because the sound of the murmur can vary depending on the size and location of the defect, an echocardiogram is the standard diagnostic tool used to confirm the presence of the opening. It is important to monitor your dog's resting respiratory rate at home, as a sudden increase in how many breaths your dog takes per minute while sleeping is often the first sign that the heart is struggling.

Establishing a Home Health Routine

Because heart conditions can be subtle in their early stages, consistency in your home monitoring is your best defense. A simple, regular exam helps you establish what is normal for your specific dog, making it much easier to spot when something is 'off.'

Using Technology for Better Care

Modern technology is a powerful tool for your vet. If you notice your Keeshond exhibiting an unusual gait, a strange breathing pattern, or any behavior that seems out of character, do not wait for it to happen in the clinic. Instead, use your smartphone to capture a clear video clip.

When recording, try to keep the camera steady and capture the dog from a distance where their entire body is visible. If the issue is related to breathing, try to get a shot of the dog's chest moving while they are resting. This visual evidence helps the vet understand exactly what you are seeing, which can significantly speed up the diagnostic process.

Monitoring Senior Keeshonds

As your Keeshond enters their senior years, the frequency of your home exams should increase. While a monthly check is sufficient for a younger dog, seniors benefit from a weekly review. Focus on their energy levels and how they recover after a short walk. If they seem to lag behind or need to stop frequently, this is a signal to discuss your findings with your vet. Always keep a log of these observations so you can provide your vet with a clear timeline of when changes began to occur.