Great Pyrenees are generally healthy dogs, but like all large breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Understanding these issues and how to prevent them helps ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

What it is: Abnormal development of the hip or elbow joints, leading to arthritis and pain.

Prevention:

• Choose a breeder who health tests parents (OFA or PennHIP)
• Maintain healthy weight (obesity increases risk)
• Avoid excessive exercise during puppy growth phase
• Provide joint supplements as recommended by your vet

Signs to watch for: Limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to exercise, bunny-hopping gait

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

What it is: Life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists.

Prevention:

• Feed multiple small meals instead of one large meal
• Avoid exercise immediately before and after eating
• Use elevated food bowls (controversial—consult your vet)
• Consider a gastropexy (stomach tacking) during spay/neuter

Signs to watch for: Distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, rapid breathing. This is an emergency—seek immediate veterinary care.

Eye Conditions

Great Pyrenees can be prone to:

• Entropion (eyelid rolling inward)
• Ectropion (eyelid rolling outward)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Prevention: Choose breeders who perform eye clearances (CERF). Regular veterinary eye exams can catch issues early.

Heart Conditions

Some Great Pyrenees may develop:

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy
• Heart murmurs

Prevention: Regular veterinary check-ups, especially as dogs age. Watch for signs like coughing, exercise intolerance, or fainting.

Skin Conditions

Common issues include:

• Hot spots
• Allergies
• Pyoderma (bacterial skin infections)

Prevention:

• Regular grooming to prevent matting
• Keep skin dry, especially in folds
• Address allergies promptly
• Maintain good flea and tick prevention

Obesity

Great Pyrenees are prone to weight gain, which exacerbates other health issues.

Prevention:

• Feed appropriate portions (follow vet recommendations)
• Regular exercise appropriate for age
• Monitor body condition score
• Avoid excessive treats

Signs: Can't feel ribs easily, no visible waist, difficulty with activity

Thyroid Issues

Hypothyroidism is relatively common in Great Pyrenees.

Signs: Weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, skin issues

Treatment: Usually manageable with medication. Regular blood tests can monitor thyroid function.

Luxating Patella

What it is: Kneecap that dislocates from its normal position.

Prevention: Maintain healthy weight, avoid excessive jumping during growth phase

Signs: Intermittent limping, skipping on a leg

Preventive Care Schedule

Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)

• Initial vet exam and vaccinations
• Regular deworming
• Spay/neuter discussion with vet (timing is important for large breeds)
• Begin heartworm prevention
• Flea and tick prevention

Adult (1-7 years)

• Annual veterinary exams
• Annual heartworm test
• Continue heartworm, flea, and tick prevention
• Dental care (regular brushing, professional cleanings as needed)
• Weight monitoring

Senior (7+ years)

• Bi-annual veterinary exams
• Blood work to monitor organ function
• Joint health monitoring
• Eye exams
• Continue all preventive care

Nutrition for Health

Proper nutrition supports overall health:

• Feed high-quality large breed puppy food until 18-24 months
• Switch to adult food appropriate for large breeds
• Consider foods with joint support ingredients
• Avoid overfeeding
• Discuss supplements with your veterinarian

Exercise and Joint Health

Proper exercise is crucial:

• Avoid excessive, high-impact exercise during growth (first 18 months)
• Provide controlled exercise appropriate for age
• Swimming is excellent low-impact exercise
• Monitor for signs of joint issues

Genetic Health Testing

Reputable breeders test for:

• Hip dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP)
• Elbow dysplasia (OFA)
• Eye conditions (CERF)
• Cardiac issues

Ask to see health clearances when choosing a puppy.

Emergency Signs

Seek immediate veterinary care for:

• Suspected bloat (distended abdomen, unproductive retching)
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse or fainting
• Severe injury
• Signs of extreme pain

Working with Your Veterinarian

Find a veterinarian experienced with large breeds. They'll understand:

• Growth rate concerns
• Bloat risks
• Joint health needs
• Breed-specific considerations

At The Hudstead

We take health seriously:

• All breeding dogs are health tested
• Puppies receive veterinary care before going home
• We provide health guarantees
• We're available to discuss health concerns with our puppy families

Remember, while Great Pyrenees can be prone to certain conditions, many are preventable or manageable with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. Early detection is key, so regular check-ups are essential.

If you have concerns about your Great Pyrenees' health, always consult with your veterinarian. They can provide breed-specific guidance and help you maintain your dog's health throughout their life.