The most important aspect of the breeding program to me, and other reputable breeders, is the health of our dogs. Every breed has it’s own problems and concerns and here I will talk about what kind of issues I have experienced and what are the most common in our breed.
Let’s start with the most common issues in the breed itself.
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Being a large breed, White Swiss Shepherds have similar issues than the German Shepherds. One of them is a hip and elbow dysplasia. It is categorized as developmental disorders caused by dysmorphic and lax joint formation. It is well-known and big issue in the breed, however I am happy to see that so many owners are taking responsibility and taking their puppies for x-rays when they turn two years. This is a huge thing for the dogs and the for the breed itself.
Allergies and intolerances
Skin allergies and food intolerances are also pretty common in the breed. Itching and vomiting being the number one symptoms. That’s why it is important that the food White Swiss Shepherds get would be a high quality food. It might take awhile to find a food that fits the dog and your lifestyle but it is worth it. Eliminating the allergens where it is possible will make life so much easier.
Degenerative myelopathy
This disease is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. It usually starts around age 8-14 years and usually begins with a loss of coordination. Affected dog will wobble or drag the feet. When the disease progresses the limb will come weak and then eventually the dog is unable to walk. Anything from 6 months to 1 year before dogs become paraplegic.