Osteochondrosis in Hovawart dogs: symptoms, risks, and buying tips

The Hovawart is a large, noble dog breed recognised by the Kennel Club’s working group, known for its roots as watchdogs, herding dogs, and devoted family companions originating in Germany.

Though rare in the UK, the Hovawart boasts a dedicated fanbase drawn to their loyalty, calm temperament, reliability, and gentle nature with children. As a large breed—themselves both tall and heavy—they suit owners capable of managing a sizeable dog, ideally in a more spacious home.

If you're considering purchasing a large breed, it’s worthwhile exploring less common breeds like the Hovawart to find the best companion for your lifestyle. This requires thoughtful research, particularly on breed health and hereditary concerns.

The Hovawart puppy generally has an average lifespan of 10-14 years, which is quite long for large breeds; however, there are notable health issues, including the hereditary condition osteochondrosis, which prospective owners must understand.

What is Osteochondrosis?

Osteochondrosis is a developmental skeletal disorder primarily affecting young, growing medium to large breed dogs. It involves abnormal cartilage maturation in immature bones, particularly near joints such as the shoulder, elbow, stifle (knee), and hock (ankle).

This abnormal cartilage thickening can create fissures or cracks, sometimes producing cartilage flaps (a condition known as osteochondritis dissecans) that interfere with joint function. The resulting joint misalignment and cartilage debris cause inflammation (synovitis), pain, and can lead to secondary osteoarthritis over time.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Lameness: Often intermittent, worsening after exercise. Forelimb lameness presents if shoulders or elbows are affected; hindlimb lameness if stifles or hocks are involved.
• Stiffness: Particularly notable after rest periods.
• Joint swelling and pain: Joints may be swollen and sensitive to manipulation.
• Muscle loss: Affected limbs may lose muscle mass due to disuse.
• Reduced activity: Dogs may show reluctance to exercise, preferring to lie down.

Why Are Hovawarts at Higher Risk?

Osteochondrosis is a hereditary disorder. If parent dogs carry the condition, they can pass increased risk to their offspring, perpetuating the problem through generations.

Large breeds like the Hovawart face greater skeletal stress, elevating their susceptibility. The relatively limited gene pool in the UK heightens the prevalence of hereditary issues such as osteochondrosis among breeding dogs, making careful selection vital.

Though the precise inheritance mechanism remains unclear, evidence shows osteochondrosis occurs more frequently in Hovawarts than chance would suggest.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Veterinarians diagnose osteochondrosis through clinical orthopaedic assessments and imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes arthroscopy to identify cartilage lesions and loose fragments.

Treatment focuses on managing pain and restoring joint function. Medical management includes anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), weight control, controlled exercise, and nutritional supplements supporting joint health.

Surgical intervention, often via arthroscopy, may remove cartilage flaps or fragments to alleviate symptoms and prevent further joint damage.

Long-term management addresses secondary osteoarthritis through multimodal approaches including physical therapy, lifestyle adjustment, and ongoing veterinary care to enhance quality of life.

Choosing a Healthy Hovawart Puppy

Buying a Hovawart puppy in the UK means navigating a limited selection and possibly joining waiting lists due to scarcity. Take time to investigate breeders thoroughly. Look for responsible breeders who perform health screenings on parent dogs and are transparent about the presence of osteochondrosis or other hereditary issues in the lineage.

Inspect the dam and, if possible, the sire. Avoid puppies with parents or close relatives affected by osteochondrosis as their risk is higher.

Be patient and never rush your decision. Selecting a healthy puppy is crucial for your future companion’s well-being and your enjoyment of the breed.

Questions to Ask When Buying a Puppy

If you're unsure about buying a Hovawart or any dog, you might ask:

• Are the parents screened for hereditary conditions, including osteochondrosis?
• Can I see health certificates or vet checks for the breeding pair?
• How is the puppy’s early socialisation and environment?
• What is the breeder’s policy on health guarantees and returns?

Responsible breeders will welcome these questions and provide clear answers to help you make an informed, ethical choice.

Conclusion

Osteochondrosis is a significant health concern for the Hovawart breed, affecting the joints in young dogs and potentially leading to pain and arthritis. Understanding symptoms, risks, and treatment options helps you prepare for responsible ownership.

By choosing a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy puppy, you contribute to the breed's long-term health and enjoy the loyal companionship of this remarkable large breed.

For anyone looking to find a Hovawart puppy, patience, research, and care will lead to the best lifelong friend.