Hereditary Health & Conformation Issues of the Bloodhound Dog

The Bloodhound puppies are renowned for their exceptional scenting ability, ranking among the best canine trackers worldwide. This large, hardy breed is widely employed by law enforcement for searching for missing persons and fugitives, as well as for finding lost pets. However, prospective owners should be aware of the breed’s specific hereditary health and conformation challenges before bringing a Bloodhound into their home.

Bloodhounds typically stand up to 27 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 40 and 50kg, with some reaching up to 72kg. They have large bones, loose skin folds, and short, coarse coats with colour variations including black, red, liver and tan combinations. Their conformation supports remarkable endurance for scent tracking but also predisposes them to certain health concerns, particularly related to joints, skin, eyes, and bloat.

Responsible ownership begins with understanding the breed’s health risks, their lifespan expectations, and recognising the importance of ethical breeding practices. This comprehensive guide will explore these facets in detail to equip owners and breeders alike with essential knowledge.

Bloodhound Longevity and Causes of Death

Bloodhounds have a lower median lifespan compared to many pedigree breeds. A 2004 survey recorded a median longevity of 6.75 years, with the oldest reaching just over 12 years. A more recent 2013 survey noted a modest rise to a median lifespan of 8.25 years, which remains low for large breeds. The shortened lifespan emphasises the importance of vigilant health care.

One of the leading causes of death in Bloodhounds is gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, accounting for about 34% of deaths in earlier surveys. GDV is an acute, life-threatening condition requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Genetic Diversity and Importance of Health Screening

The Bloodhound breed exhibits a coefficient of inbreeding around 11.7%, indicating a moderate level of genetic relatedness within pedigree lines. While some inbreeding helps maintain breed purity, excessive inbreeding raises the risk of hereditary diseases. Prospective breeders aim to select parent dogs with lower inbreeding coefficients to promote healthier offspring.

Recognised as a "high profile dog breed" by the UK Kennel Club, Bloodhounds require careful monitoring for hereditary disorders. The British Veterinary Association advises pre-breeding health screenings for several key conditions:

• Hip dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint often leading to arthritis. Bloodhounds have a mean hip score of 20, but breeding dogs should ideally have a score below this to help improve breed health.
• Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia but affecting the elbow joint. The ideal elbow score for breeding stock is zero.
• Eye conditions: Hereditary eye problems such as ectropion (droopy eyelids), entropion (inward rolling eyelids), cherry eye, and dry eye are common. Eye screening before breeding is crucial.

Conformation-Related Health Concerns

The unique physical characteristics of the Bloodhound predispose them to several health issues. Their deep chest increases the risk of gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat), a medical emergency. Owners must learn to recognise early symptoms and seek prompt treatment.

Their loose facial skin can trap dirt and moisture, leading to infections or irritations, especially within folds. Bloodhounds may also suffer from eyelid malformations such as entropion and ectropion affecting eye health.

Their long, floppy ears are prone to collecting debris and dirt, requiring regular cleaning to prevent infections.

Other Health Problems Common in Bloodhounds

Beyond conformation issues, Bloodhounds can develop:

• Degenerative myelopathy: A hereditary spinal condition causing progressive loss of mobility.
• Skin fold dermatitis and allergies: Common skin conditions linked to their skin folds and sensitivities.
• Aortic stenosis: A narrowing of the heart arteries that may result in congestive heart failure.
• Cancer and joint diseases: Cancer is a notable cause of death, while arthritis related to hip and elbow dysplasia affects quality of life.

Responsible Breeding and Ownership

Due to their genetic predispositions and conformation, reputable Bloodhound breeders rigorously test potential parents for hereditary problems. This includes hip and elbow scoring, eye examinations, and overall health screening to breed healthier puppies.

Potential owners should seek puppies from breeders who can provide up-to-date health screenings and offer guidance about caring for Bloodhounds' specific needs, including bloat prevention, ear care, skin maintenance, and joint health support.

Proactive veterinary check-ups, managing weight, appropriate exercise, and diet management can also prolong and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

The Bloodhound remains an extraordinary breed with unmatched tracking capabilities but requires informed, responsible ownership due to its hereditary health and conformation challenges. Understanding these issues aids in preparing for the commitment and helping ensure a long, happy life for your Bloodhound.

Choosing a Bloodhound puppy from a breeder dedicated to health testing and responsible practices is essential for the future of the breed and the well-being of your canine companion.