Top 12 Common Health Problems Seen in Pit Bulls
Cerebellar Ataxia:Cerebellar ataxia is a neurological problem that causes a dog to walk irregularly. Lesions in the dog’s cerebellum (a part of the brain) cause symptoms such as incoordination.
Allergies:American Pit Bull Terriers are prone to allergies and other skin conditions due to their short fur, which leaves their skin more exposed than longer-haired breeds.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament :Pit Bulls may be prone to partial or full tears of their CCL. This typically happens slowly, rather than being caused by an acute injury.
Ichthyosis:Ichthyosis is another skin condition that causes dry, flaky skin. Most Pitties with ichthyosis are affected from birth.
Separation Anxiety:Pit Bulls do best in homes where someone is with them most of the day. They can be quite clingy dogs, and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.
Skin Cancer:Treatment for skin cancer varies depending on the type of cancer a dog has and how far it has progressed. Your veterinarian may recommend surgery, chemotherapy, or other treatments.
Luxating Patella:Luxating patella is a kneecap that dislocates, or pops in and out of place. Your dog might limp momentarily, then go back to normal afterward.
Hip Dysplasia:American Pit Bull Terriers and other large dog breeds are predisposed to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a hip deformity caused by the ball and socket of the hip growing at different rates.
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis:Symptoms begin when a dog is one to two years old, and most dogs are euthanized by the age of three due to poor quality of life.
Skin Infections:They’re also more prone to a specific skin infection called zinc-responsive dermatosis, which is caused by a dog either not getting enough zinc in their diet or their bodies not absorbing zinc as they should.
Anxiety:Anxiety can be more common in Pit Bulls than in other breeds, especially if they’re not cared for properly. Pitties are high-energy dogs who need plenty of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day.
Ear Infections:Ear infections must be treated by a veterinarian–home remedies won’t work and can make the problem worse. Waiting to treat an ear infection can make your vet bill more expensive .