Health issues
GSP and Hungarian Vizsla
Below are some of the health issues that need to be considered
when taking on one of these breeds.
Hip dysplasia
This is the improper formation of the hip joint, leading
to pain and lameness. Partly hereditary but also affected by environmental
issues such as growth rate, weight and activity levels. Breeding from
stock with hip scores within the breed average, whilst contributing to
a reduced chance of a puppy developing hip dysplasia, is no guarantee
that a pup will not be affected. At present the average score for GSP
is 10 and for Vizsla it is 12. When considering a hip score it is worth
looking at not only the parents score but also further back in the pedigree
and any offspring of the parents that might already have been scored for
a broader picture.
Entropian
This can occur in any breed of dog and other animals
as well. It is when the eyelashes turn in and rub on the eye, causing
pain, irritation to the eye. This is readily apparent in a young puppy,
but is easily corrected by surgery. This condition is thought to be hereditary.
Epilepsy
Although quite rare this condition has occurred in both
these breeds and you would need to ask the breeder if there is any family
history in their lines. It can be caused by hereditary factors but also
by certain toxins that a dog may ingest. It is caused by irregularities
in the nerve impulses which cause sudden impulses to the brain. These
in turn cause seizures varying from momentary lapses in consciousness
to full blown fits. This condition is treatable with medication, but once
on such medication a dog would need to remain on it for life.
Cockers
Entropian
see above
Epilepsy
see above
Glaucoma
This is a serious eye condition where the amount of fluid
in the eye increases causing pressure within the eye to build up. It can
lead to partial or total blindness. Primary glaucoma is hereditary unlike
the secondary form which is a complication of another disease.
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