 |
||||||||
You should always consult a Licensed Veterinarian first for medical and health issues. Only a Licensed Veterinarian will be able to properly diagnose and treat your Bullmastiff. Before adopting a Bullmastiff, potential owners should be aware of the genetic disorders common to the Bullmastiff breed. Veterinarians and Bullmastiff Breeders will sometimes conflict on what one specific defect would be considered as inheritable or not (for example, hip dysplasia and thyroid dysfunction). The bottom line for the defects listed here is that there has been more than enough evidence to give a positive determination that at least these disorders are congenital. Improper care of a Bullmastiff puppy by the owner will increase the severity of the defect as well. Always ask to see the documented proof of the test results before buying that Bullmastiff puppy! Some Bullmastiff Breeders may tell the truth about the defects that exist or may have existed in their lines - others will not. The later is very unfortunate because if a Bullmastiff Breeder is not willing to come forward and share their information - they not only taint another breeder's line with whom they breed with, but they also hinder the progress of improvement that the Responsible Bullmastiff Breeders are trying to achieve. In the war of careless breeding, the Bullmastiff and the Puppy Buyer pays the ultimate price in grief, pain, and medical bills. There is nothing more devastating than having to put down a Bullmastiff that is less than 5 years old who should have been enjoying the prime of their life. The articles presented on this site are to help you make an educated determination so that you will be able to do the following:
Keep in mind, the above list of health problems is a short interpretation of the Bullmastiff Standard Definition(s) and from the inputs of other Bullmastiff Breeders who have experienced these problems. Realize that the Bullmastiff is also prone to all other defects that affect the canine species. If you notice a sudden change in your Bullmastiff's behavior - take him or her to the vet. Bullmastiffs cannot talk - therefore, their expression of pain are shown through changes in behavior or misbehavior. Anything that seems out of the ordinary for your beloved Bullmastiff should be investigated by a licensed veterinarian as soon as possible. Other Articles about Canine Genetics & Breeding:
A Final Thought: Are the Bullmastiff Breeders today doing "everything" possible to produce a sound Bullmastiff - genetically? Or is too much emphases being placed on "cosmetics", that "exceptions" are made if the Bullmastiff "looks" wonderful conformation-wise? Is it still possible to create a "genetically sound" Bullmastiff? Is it "ok" to go ahead and breed a Bullmastiff that although he/she currently does not show any congenital defects - his/her's littermate does? Was the breeding stock tested too early before maturity to really make an accurate call?
|
||||||||
All
Rights Reserved. Copyright 1994 - 2001 BullmastiffInfo.org
|
