English Pointer

• Hip dysplasia (common among larger dogs) is a condition in which the thighbone and hip joint do not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Arthritis can develop later in life as a result of the condition.
• Progressive retinal atrophy refers to a family of eye conditions which result in the deterioration of the retina. In the early stages, dogs may lose their sight at night, and then gradually lose their sight during the daytime too. Most dogs, however, adapt to their vision loss very well unless faced with new or changing environments.
• Epilepsy. Possibly inherited, epilepsy is a neurological disorder which causes seizures that can manifest themselves in unusual behaviour, dizziness, rigidity and fainting spells. Though it is frightening to watch, the prognosis for affected dogs is usually quite good, and treatment is available.
• Neurotropic osteopathy is a rare disease which affects the bones and is caused by abnormalities in the nerves. It usually occurs when the dog is 3 – 9 months old and can lead to spinal degeneration.
• Allergies. The English Pointer can be prone to certain allergies, including food allergies, contact allergies and inhalant allergies. Treatment usually involves removal of the allergen from the dog’s environment or medication.
• Cherry eye is, you guessed it, a condition affecting the eye, causing the third eyelid to well and cause irritation. It generally appears as a red mass (hence the name cherry) on the corner of the dog’s eye. It is treated with surgery.
• Cataracts can occur in Pointers, causing them to develop poor vision and a cloudy appearance in the eyes. They usually occur in older dogs and may be removed surgically if necessary.
• Entropion is a condition which generally occurs in young dogs and causes the eyelid to roll inwards, which can lead to irritation or injury of the eyeball. Signs include rubbing or scratching around the eye area. It can be treated surgically if necessary.
• Chondrodysplasia. Incorrectly referred to as “dwarfism”, Chondrodysplasia is a genetic deformity characterised by abnormally short legs. Some dogs may only be mildly affected, but some can be crippled. Less severely affected dogs lead normal lives but should not be bred to prevent the passage of the defect to offspring.
• Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism). This serious illness is caused by the insufficient production of adrenal hormones by the adrenal gland.  Pointers with Addison’s disease may have a poor appetite, appear lethargic and vomit.  The symptoms of this disease are not always straightforward so it’s best to visit your vet where tests can be performed.
• Demodectic Mange. Demodex mites are passed down from mother to pup but are not transferrable to other dogs or humans. These mites are normal and present in every dog, and typically do not cause any issues. However, a Pointer with a weak immune system could develop demodectic mange. Characterised by red, scaly skin and hair loss, the disease often goes away on its own, but should still be discussed with a vet.

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