Is the Bichon Frise breed predisposed to kidney problems?
Bichons may be predisposed to kidney problems. Bichon frises, those adorable white fluff-balls of the canine world, are an obvious choice for people looking for a family friendly dog. While the bichon is a healthy breed with an average life span of 12-15 years, owners should be aware that some bichons may be predisposed to kidney problems.
What’s the average life span of a Bichon?
While the bichon is a healthy breed with an average life span of 12-15 years, owners should be aware that some bichons may be predisposed to kidney problems. Based on a recent health survey cited on the Bichon Frise Club of America Inc. website, primary health problems in the bichon are skin problems/allergies and bladder/kidney stones.
How to tell if your Bichon has a stone in its bladder?
Symptoms. A stone blocking any part of the urinary system can cause a medical emergency. If your bichon becomes depressed and weak, or experiences nausea or vomiting, seek immediate veterinary care. Other symptoms include a firm belly, indicating the bladder is full, as well as a stiff-legged gait and hunched back,…
What kind of health problems do Bichons have?
Bichons are at higher risks of cataracts ( our dogs got them after 12th birthdays) and gingivitis.
What causes incontinence in male and female dogs?
The most typical is known as hormone-responsive incontinence, which is caused by a hormone deficiency. The hormones (testosterone in males and estrogen in females) impact a dog’s ability to control the urethral sphincter, a band of muscular tissues near the base of the bladder.
How old does a dog have to be to have incontinence?
Age-related hormone-responsive incontinence usually shows itself when the dog reaches eight or nine years old. Spayed or neutered dogs are more susceptible to developing the condition because their reproductive organs (which are responsible for the production of hormones) have been removed.
What causes a dog to pass urine on his back?
Causes. In these cases, the dog usually passes a small amount of urine and assumes a submissive position, lying on his back or belly. Neurogenic incontinence, usually a result of a tumor, infection, or spinal cord injury that disrupts the nerves that control the bladder.
What can I give my female dog for urinary incontinence?
If hormones are the culprit and you’ve got a female dog, your vet will likely prescribe phenylpropanolamine, which helps improve the tone of the urethral sphincter. If that’s unsuccessful, the next drug will likely be estrogen in the form of diethylstilbestrol.
