Health

Cavaliers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. When buying a Cavalier, it is important to be aware of all of these possible health concerns. Before purchasing a puppy, ask your breeder for health clearances for both of your puppy’s parents. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition or disease. Good, reputable breeders will have no problem in providing the necessary papers if their dogs are strong and healthy.

In Cavaliers, you should expect to see health clearances form the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia (with a score of fair or better), elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease; from the Auburn University for thrombopathia; and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) certifying that eyes are normal. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site (www.offa.org)

Disease common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels:

• Mitral Valve Disease(MVD)

• Syringomyelia (SM)

• Episodic Falling

• Hip Dysplasia

• Patellar Luxation

• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

(photo courtesy of Google stock images)

#cavalier #puppy #cavalierkingcharlesspaniel #dog #history #dogs #vet #health