These large and lovely looking dogs boast lifespans that range from 10 to 12 years and the breed is considered to be pretty robust and hardy. Sadly, like so many other large pedigree dogs, the Beauceron is prone to suffer from certain orthopaedic and other health disorders. Having said this, not all dogs would ever develop any of the conditions listed below, but knowing about them helps owners recognise the early symptoms of a problem.

The earlier a condition is treated whether it's an hereditary disorder on an acquired one, the better the outcome usually is. Below is a list of the health issues more commonly seen in the breed than in others.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a condition that affects a dog's hips and which is caused by an abnormal development in their joints. The disorder typically affects larger dog breeds including the Beauceron, although all dogs are susceptible to developing the condition. It's a very painful disorder that causes dogs to be constantly lame which needs to be treated as soon as a sign there may a problem is detected. KC Registered puppies older than 12 months can be screened for hip dysplasia.

Elbow Dysplasia

This is a common disorder that affects the breed where abnormal development occurs in their elbow joints. Dogs are typically lame on their front legs and it can affect dogs at any time in their lives, but is more typically seen in older dogs. Although the cause of the condition is unknown, it can be managed and treated.

Bloat - Gastric Dilatation

Bloat is a very painful condition where the stomach fills with air which then rotates. It is a condition that needs to be taken very seriously because often it could prove fatal due to the fact that the supply of blood is cut off. Beaucerons as well as other large breeds that boast deep, narrow chests are more prone to developing the condition. If you notice your dog showing any signs of a swollen stomach and restlessness, veterinary attention should be sought as soon as possible. Other symptoms include:

• Excessive Drooling
• Abdominal pain
• Shallow, rapid breathing

Bloat is a very serious condition that affects dogs and which needs to be treated as soon as possible because if not, it could prove fatal in less than an hour.

Osteochondritis Dissecans – OCD

This is a condition where there's an excess of cartilage paired with an abnormal bone growth that affects many large and giant breed dogs including the Beauceron. Vets normally recommend corrective surgery although there are some drugs and medicines that have been seen to be effective at limiting the amount of cartilage damage that occurs in dogs with the condition.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

This a condition or the heart which affects its function and a few breeds including the Beauceron have a predisposition to developing this disorder with larger breeds being more affected. The cause of Dilated Cardiomyopathy is unknown but it can be treated although owners have to bear in mind that it is a progressive disorder which means regular visits to the vet are essential for dogs that have been diagnosed with the condition.

Allergies

The breed is also prone to suffer from certain allergies which can turn quite nasty. A vet would need to carry out certain tests to rule out what is causing the conditions and this includes examining a dog's environment and well as their diet.

Dermatomyositis

A nasty and painful inflammatory condition which affects the dog's skin, their muscles, blood vessels and fat.

Buying a Puppy

If you are thinking about buying a Beauceron puppy, it's really important to contact a breeder or person who screens their dogs and who has a well planned breeding programme in place so that any litters they produce are less likely to inherit any congenital disorders from their parents.

Conclusion

It may seem like the Beauceron suffers from quite a lot of congenital and acquired health issues, however, not every dog would develop any of the conditions listed above during the course of their live times. Knowing there is a possibility of a pet developing a condition, helps owners recognise the early signs of a problem and the earlier a correct diagnosis is made and the condition treated, the better the outcome tends to be.