Caring for your Pont-Audemer Spaniel

Quick answer

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a gentle and affectionate breed that thrives on positive reinforcement and family interaction. While they are generally robust, owners should be aware of specific health tendencies including ear infections, hip dysplasia, and alopecia. Maintaining a lean body condition and regular, gentle training sessions are the best ways to support their long-term well-being.

Understanding ear health

Ear infections are a recognised tendency in the breed. Because of the shape and carriage of their ears, moisture and debris can easily become trapped in the ear canal, creating an environment where bacteria or yeast can thrive. At home, you might notice your dog shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or holding one ear at a different angle than the other. You may also notice an unpleasant odor or discharge coming from the ear canal.

When you visit the clinic, the vet will use an otoscope to look deep into the ear canal to check for redness, swelling, or a ruptured eardrum. They will likely take a swab to examine under a microscope to identify the specific type of infection. It is important to address these signs early, as chronic infections can lead to thickening of the ear tissue or permanent damage to the canal. Never attempt to clean deep inside the ear with cotton swabs, as this can push debris further down or damage the delicate structures.

Managing hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a well-recognised condition in the breed. This involves the improper development of the hip joint, where the ball and socket do not fit together smoothly. Over time, this causes wear and tear that leads to discomfort and reduced mobility. You might notice your dog struggling to stand up after a nap, showing a reluctance to climb stairs, or developing a swaying gait when they walk.

Your vet will perform a physical examination to check for pain or limited range of motion in the hips. If they suspect dysplasia, they will recommend X-rays to visualize the joint structure. Keeping your dog at a lean body weight is the most effective way to manage the stress placed on these joints. Avoid high-impact activities on hard surfaces while your dog is still growing, and focus on controlled, steady exercise to maintain muscle mass around the hips.

Addressing alopecia

Alopecia, or hair loss, is a recognised tendency in the breed. This can manifest as thinning patches of fur or complete bald spots in various areas of the body. While it is often a cosmetic concern, it can also be a sign of underlying skin irritation or systemic issues. You will likely notice the hair loss first during routine grooming sessions. If you see the skin beneath the hair looking red, flaky, or inflamed, it is important to investigate further.

When you see your vet, they will perform a skin scraping or a biopsy to rule out parasites, fungal infections, or hormonal imbalances. Because the cause is not always straightforward, this is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one, and how this passes down is not settled. Keep a log of when the hair loss started and whether your dog seems itchy, as this information helps the vet narrow down the potential causes.