Common Diseases and Disorders
In general, the Bouvier des Flandres are healthy dogs, however the following diseases or conditions have been recognized in this breed;
Gastric torsion, also known as bloat, is a life-threatening sudden illness associated with the stomach filling with air and twisting.
Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint that results in pain, lameness and arthritis.
Muscular dystrophy - is type of congenital disorder affecting the muscle.
Laryngeal paralysis is a dysfunction of the larynx, or voicebox causing respiratory distress. Most common is the acquired idiopathic form.
In addition, although these occur infrequently, the following disorders have also been reported:
Glaucoma is a painful and serious condition that causes pressure within the eye to increase. It can lead to blindness if not treated early.
Laryngeal paralysis is a serious disease that may begin as early as 4 months of age. Nerves and muscles of the voice box (larynx) function abnormally.
Cataracts cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Entropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.
Life Span
The average life span of the Bouvier des Flandres is approximately 8 to 10 years.
We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.
