Bloodhounds are sturdy, heavy-boned athletic dogs. Each dog breed has its own care needs; with a Bloodhound, keep a moist towel handy can help to wipe clean the facial folds and catch the drool. Due to their facial skin folds they can be prone to skin infections. The ears of a Bloodhound do need to be cared for, as they can tend to trap a wide variety of debris within these orifices.
     Due to their size and athleticism, the Bloodhound is not a common household pet. In some ways this has helped to maintain a stronger gene pool. Purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder is your best assurance of obtaining a healthy pup.

The following are the most common medical issues found in Bloodhounds.

Ectropion
        The lower eyelid protects the eye.  Age, excessive scaring, loose facial skin can each be causative factors resulting in the pulling or drooping of the lower eyelid away from the globe of the eye itself.  The punctum is the drainage hole on each lid near the nose.  As the lower eyelid droops the punctum is pulled away from its normal position.  Tears do not drain naturally.  As protection for the eye breaks down, irritation, inflammation, burning, itching and the deposit of debris will result.  The dog will experience discomfort and attempt to itch the eye.
For more information please see : (Medical Index/Ectropion).

Entropion
        Entropion is an eye condition in which the eyelid rolls in towards the eye.  The eyelashes or hair on the eyelid can rub against the cornea causing irritation and possibly corneal ulcers.  Surgery is required to correct this problem.
For further information, please see: (Medical Index/Entropion.)

Bloat (GDV)
     Bloat must not be ignored.  If your dog looks "bulgy", is pacing with anxiety and drooling a bit, he cannot sit or lie down comfortably and is in general distress, get moving now, get to a veterinarian.
For more information, please see: (Medical Index/G.V.D. or bloat.)

Hip Dysplasia
     The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise the animal can lead a full and active life. In more severe cases surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/ Hip Dysplasia.)

Return to Bloodhound Directory

Return to Bark Bytes Home