Boston Terrier Health Problems

Boston Terrier Health Problems

So, you’re thinking about getting yourself a pet to bring home? You’ve probably already got your eyes set on adopting a Boston Terrier in which you’re prepared to provide him with the best home you can as possible. Aside from the normal necessities for your pet such as food, shelter, vet visits and exercise, it's ideal that you become familiar with the Boston Terriers’ health problems. Although not too life threatening, not being aware of them can potentially lead to unfortunate circumstances. Here are some of the most common health problems you may face with your future pup.

Respiratory Issues

Those cute, little pushed in faces are endearing, but they also come with genetic problems for Boston Terriers. These physical attributes contribute to their respiratory issues such as snoring or snorting. Although it’s not something that hinders their quality of life, it’s good for you as the pet owner to get a grasp on it. Plus, depending on where you live, the climate of your area can aggravate his breathing even more. If you’re wanting to take him out for exercise, being aware of his breathing condition can help you be much more proactive about taking care of him.

For issues like this, it’s wise to be cautious when taking your little doggie out for a walk. In addition to his collar and leash, be sure that you have secured him with a Boston Terrier harness as well. A dog harness is ideal when it comes to walking dogs in general, especially those with respiratory issues. It prevents them from pulling and putting too much pressure on their chest area. You’ll also notice that many of these harness options provide you with ways to adjust them to size as well as many color schemes. Of course, be sure to take water with you as you never know if you may run into a situation where you both may not have access to water for prolonged periods of time.

Boston Terriers, like other smaller breeds, are also prone to developing eye disease. Their small faces and large, bulging eyes put them at greater risk. You can help to keep their eyes healthy by providing them with a healthy, high vitamin diet. Also, don’t let him get into areas of the house that can put him in some type of physical harm. If you notice that his eyes are discharging a lot of liquids that are beyond normal amounts, be sure to get him to a doctor right away to seek treatment right away.

As you bathe him regularly, be sure to clean off all the eye gunk residue from his face. Odds are he will have accumulated some buildup. After you clean this off, it will help him stay clean in that region and prevent irritation that could lead to more residue.

Loss of Hearing

Although very rare, some Boston Terriers can be born deaf in one or both of their ears. This is a genetic issue that can pose an issue when you’re trying to train your dog in obedience. As long as you remain patient with him, you can be assured that he will soon learn to obey you. If this is the case with your animal, it would be a good idea to learn hand signals from professional trainers. They can show you particular movements that will increase the effectiveness of your training despite the barrier of your doggie’s loss of hearing. Besides, it might be a humbling experience for you both as you will become more accustomed to helping to accommodate his special health needs.

Bad Knees

Since their bodies are somewhat larger than their legs, this can put a lot of pressure on their foundation. Boston Terriers are known to have issues with their patellas, also known as their kneecaps. At times and as they age, Boston Terriers can experience luxating patellas where their knee caps pop out of place. This can be painful and uncomfortable. To help alleviate this, you can limit your pup’s jumping on and off high furniture and giving him chances to exercise regularly. This will help him build up strength in his legs to prevent weak knees.

Also, don’t let him jump around too much. If he jumps, he continues to put pressure on his legs, especially his hind ones, which are more prone to luxating patellas. His large frame can take its toll on his back legs each time he jumps. When he gets older, his knees will lose the ability to properly absorb shock, which can make it painful for him. This may lead to arthritis or non-use of his legs altogether. Teach him to be calm and sitting versus jumping on you and people when he gets overly excited. It will take him some time to get used to it, but with patience and training, he will learn to stop doing it.

We also recommend Dog Stairs to help stop your dog from jumping off the bed or couch.

Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Stairs 5-Step - Gray Linen, Large (15 x 22.5 x 30 inches) 

What you can do now.

Owning a pet doesn’t have to be rocket science. Providing a pet with necessities such as a good home, food and love is all that it will ever ask for. You do have the ability to help prolong his life though by giving him extra care and being aware of all potential, breed health issues. Plus, to stay on top of these health complications, it’s highly recommended and necessary to take your pet to visit a veterinarian on a regular basis. Consistent check-ups will keep your doggie as healthy and up-to-date with vaccines and treatments as much as possible. One last thing to keep in mind is that you should always opt to adopt, not shop. Look for a Boston Terrier through a local rescue group or even the pound. Many dogs need a good home and many times, these dogs are much healthier than puppies that come from a breeding mill. Overall, you are highly capable of giving your dog the best, quality life. Being proactive and caring is all you need to provide him with the life he deserves.