Health
Life Span and Health
The Rottweiler has an average lifespan of 9 to 10 years.
Like all purebred dogs, the Rottweiler is prone to a number of genetic health issues.
Some of these health issues include:
The Rottweiler has an average lifespan of 9 to 10 years.
Like all purebred dogs, the Rottweiler is prone to a number of genetic health issues.
Some of these health issues include:
- Aortic Stenosis - narrowing of the aortic valve, which controls the blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta ventricular outflow tract. It is also the second most common congenital heart defect in dogs
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia - an abnormal formation of the socket that, in its more severe form, can eventually cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. It is a genetic trait that is affected by environmental factors.
- Entropion - a genetic condition in which a portion of the eyelid is inverted or folded inward. This can cause an eyelash or hair to irritate and scratch the surface of the eye, leading to corneal ulceration or perforation.
- Ectropion - an abnormality of the eyelids in which the lower eyelid "rolls" outward or is everted. This causes the lower eyelids to appear "droopy".
- Cruciate Ligament Rupture - a cruciate ligament injury is the result of a partial or complete tear. Sudden lameness in a rear leg is often the first sign of injury.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans - or OCD is actually a serious condition that affects a dog's joints. OCD is a result of osteochondrosis, which is when an abnormal development of cartilage appears on the end of a bone in a dog's joint.
- Cancer - is the leading cause of death in dogs. It is estimated that 1 in 3 domestic dogs will develop cancer, which is the same incidence of cancer among men. Dogs can develop a variety of cancers and most are very similar to those found in humans.