All purebred and mixed breeds are prone to hereditary health problems and the Black & Tan Coonhound is no exception. Thankfully, this list is extremely short and it is hoped the list continues to remain as such. 

 

As with all large breeds of dog Hip Dysplasia has been noted in the Black & Tan Coonhound and to a far lesser degree Elbow Dysplasia. Some eye conditions have also been noted. 

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Required Testing: 
The BTCC of GB require that all breeding dogs are hip & elbow scored as well as eye tested before mating.

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Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

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A sensible practice when it is well documented large breeds have a higher predisposition for these orthopedic problems. 

 

What is Hip & Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs?

 

Hip Dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly leading to instability and potential damage to the joint. Hip dysplasia can cause pain lameness and difficulty when moving.

 

Elbow Dysplasia is a collective term for several developmental abnormalities that occur in the elbow joint, including fragmented coronoid process, osteochondritis dissecans & ununited anconeal process. Again, these can cause pain, lameness and restricted movement of the affected limb.

 

Both hip & elbow are genetic conditions, meaning they can be inherited from the parents. They can also be influenced by environmental factors such as rapid growth, excessive weight, dietary factors, incorrect exercise, injury and impact on these joints which do not absorb shock.

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Disease Detection

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Several health tests have been recommended for the breed by the OFA (Canine Health Registry in America) & the breed Club in the States, the American Black & Tan Coonhound Club. These tests include screening for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cardiac (heart) evaluation, eye examination & blood testing for autoimmune thyroiditis. Sadly, the majority of dogs listed have incomplete results meaning our knowledge is sketchy. 

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To see a clearer picture of breed health in the UK, the Black & Coonhound health team of  Estella Saxton (Kennel Club Breed Health co-ordinator), and Stephanie Goodacre will be reaching out to owners & breeders to submit issues they feel their dogs may have. 

Reporting health issues will help identify immerging health problems & trends so they can be targeted, and plans put in place for detection & treatment. It will contribute to breed health education so the breed community receives upto date health information and will help support responsible breeding practices.

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PLEASE CLICK THE BELOW LINK TO ACCESS THE HEALTH SUBMISSION FORM