5 Common Belgian Malinois Health Concerns

These confident canines have an insatiable work ethic, leading these pups to serve as service dogs and police pups, along with other pooch professions.

The Belgian Malinois is happy to be your loyal hiking companion or running buddy. These elegant dogs love to exercise, and will need an owner who can account for the breed’s high exercise demands. As long as you can keep these intelligent dogs entertained, you’re sure to have a loyal, life-long best friend. 

If you’re ready to welcome a Belgian Malinois into your life, you’ll want to make sure you have a clear understanding of the breed’s health history. This way, you can provide your furry friend with the best care possible. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Belgian Malinois health concerns. 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA in dogs is caused by the progressive degeneration of rod and cone photoreceptor cells. This can eventually lead to blindness in dogs and is usually a hereditary condition. While this condition is not painful, there is no effective treatment. Your veterinarian will help you modify your dog’s lifestyle in order to cope with the associated symptoms. 

Cataracts

Unfortunately, the Belgain Malinois is prone to more than one eye issue. Canine cataracts occur when a dog’s lens clouds progressively, leading to a loss of vision. Cataracts are largely hereditary, which speaks to the importance of sourcing your puppy from a reputable breeder. 

In some cases, cataracts can be corrected with surgical intervention. In others, dogs with cataracts are usually able to adapt to their vision loss without too much hassle. 

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is caused by an underproductive thyroid gland. This gland is responsible for maintaining your dog’s metabolism, so it can come with a wide range of symptoms. You may notice your dog experiencing changes in appetite or thirst, along with hair loss and lethargy. Hypothyroidism is identified through blood testing, and is usually not life threatening if managed properly. If diagnosed with hypothyroidism, your pooch will need to take a hormone replacement medication for the rest of his life. 

Hip Dysplasia 

Large, tall breeds like the Belgian Malinois are more prone to developing the relatively common condition of canine hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip socket does not properly align with the hip joint. The two parts scrape against each other rather than sliding into place, causing your canine intense pain. You may notice your dog struggling to go about his everyday activities or put weight on his hind legs. 

This genetic condition is somewhat unavoidable, but luckily, it is manageable. Your veterinarian can provide your pup with pain medication, supplements, and recommend lifestyle changes to help deal with the associated symptoms. Depending on the severity of your dog’s condition, your veterinarian may also recommend surgery, stem cell treatments, or physical therapy for your Belgain Malinois. 

Hemangiosarcoma

This devastating disease is one of the least understood amongst the veterinarian community. Hemangiosarcoma is characterized by a tumor of cells that line the blood vessels. While this condition can be passed down from one generation to another, there isn’t full consensus on the source of this condition. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for the life-threatening condition. 

Just like any other breed, the Belgian Malinois has his own set of health concerns that are important to understand as a responsible pet parent. With this expanded understanding, you’re sure to make an amazing pooch parent to these hardworking hounds. Enjoy welcoming one of these loyal, loving pups into your family!

Did you know stem banking during the spay/neuter procedure can be a great benefit to your pup as they age. Learn how stem cell banking can help HERE