As with all breeds of dogs, the Chow Chow is prone to certain health problems. Keep on reading to find out exactly what these Chow Chow health problems are.
If you feel that your Chow Chow does have a health issue, no matter how big or small it may be, it’s important that you take them to your local vet as soon as possible. They will be able to give your Chow Chow a good check up and a treatment plan for anything that may be wrong.
Below are just some of the common Chow Chow health problems:
Orthopedic Problems
The Chow Chow breed has a very high rate of orthopedic problems in their hips, elbows and knees. If you feel your Chow Chow does have an orthopedic problem in any of their joints, then book an appointment with your local vet so they can do x-rays and organize a treatment plan.
Skin Problems
The Chow Chow has a very thick coat and numerous skin folds. Due to this they are prone to certain skin health problems including infections, allergies and follicular dysplasia (which causes hair loss) to name just a few.
Eye Problems
The Chow Chow may have cute, deep-set eyes, but these adorable eyes are prone to certain health problems. Just some of these eye health problems include cataracts, entropiol (eyelids that are rolled-in), ectropion (eyelids that are rolled-out) corneal dystrophy, papillary membranes (which can cause vision impairment) to name a few. Again, if you feel your Chow Chow has any sort of eye health problem, then book an appointment with your local vet as soon as possible
Soft Palate
A palate is a flap of skin, which sits across the back of the Chow Chow’s throat. It stops things such as food and water from going into the windpipe. However, the Chow Chows palate can become stretched and even loose causing them to breathe very noisily and it can also make them store loudly. This stretched out palate can also make Chow Chow anesthesia harder.
Heatstroke
Due to the Chow Chow’s thick coat and breathing problems, they can sometimes get heatstroke during hot weather. To prevent this from occurring, it’s best to only exercise your Chow Chow when it is cooler, such as early morning or evening.
As previously mentioned, these are just some of the Chow Chow health problems out there. And remember, if you do feel your Chow Chow has any sort of health problem or injury, then make sure you book an appointment at your local vet as soon as possible.
Also, it’s a good idea to book regular check-ups with your local vet a couple of times a year, even if there is nothing wrong with your Chow Chow. Your vet will be able to give your pet a full look-over just in case there are any Chow Chow health problems that you may have missed. Doing this will also give you peace of mind that your Chow Chow is in a healthy condition.