Medical Conditions of the
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
by Jennie Bullock

     The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a recent arrival in the U.S. They have a relatively small populace. Therefore, the gene pool is rather limited. Most Swissie breeders are extremely careful in their breeding programs and will screen their breeding stock in order to minimize potential health problems. If you are considering purchasing a Swissie pup be sure to deal with a reputable conscientious breeder, that can show documentation of their health screenings.

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 (HD)
        Hip Dysplasia is the result of the malformation of the hip joint(s).  This condition is a common difficulty in most of the large dog breeds.  This condition is both genetic and environmentally influenced.
        Be sure that both parents of any Greater Swiss Mountain Dog puppy you are considering purchasing is certified by OFA or Penn Hip to be free of Hip Dysplasia.
        Over-feeding, over-exercise and injury while young may also contribute to your puppy damaging (leading to degeneration) his hips.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia).

Elbow Dysplasia
        Elbow Dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the bones associated with the elbow joint.  This disease is generally accepted as genetic in nature, and can occur in multiple levels of severity.
        As with Hip Dysplasia, both parents should be certified as free of Elbow Dysplasia prior to breeding.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Elbow Dysplasia).

Patellar Luxation

      The patella (kneecap) is a small bone which guards the knee joint.  The patella sits in a grove in the femur, and is held in place by a combination of ligaments and muscles.  This bone can slip out of position due to injury, poor alignment, weak ligaments, or insufficient grove in the femur.  Generally the dog will limp, carry the leg off the ground, or hop when running.  If the problem is severe it can necessitate surgery.

        Patellar luxation can be either hereditary or due to injury.
For more information, please see: Medical Index/Patellar Luxation.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
        Osteochondrosis Dissecans is a disorder of bone formation resulting from a defect in the transition of cartilage into bone during the growth process.  This condition appears to be genetic in nature, being far more common in some bloodlines than others.  Similarly to hip dysplasia, environmental factors can be contributory.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Osteochondrosis Dissecans).

Entropion
       In lay-terms entropion is the inward rolling of the eyelid(s), usually resulting in the eyelashes or hair rubbing the surface of the eye. This rubbing can cause irritation, ulceration, or minor scratches.  This condition is serious.  The irritation can cause swelling which further complicates the condition, therefore early treatment is critical.  Surgical correction is the most common course of action.
For more information, please see : (Medical Index/Entropion).

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).
 

Distichiasis

       Some dogs have a double row of eyelashes. These double eyelashes normally occur on the lower eyelid. Their presence causes irritation of the eye similar to that of Entropion.  Surgery is required for correction.

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