Pocket Bullies are a relatively new breed of dog, so there is not a lot of information available about their health. However, they are generally considered to be healthy dogs, and can live for between 10 and 15 years.
Common Health Issues
Like all breeds of dog, Pocket Bullies are susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the most common health issues that Pocket Bullies can suffer from include:
Hip dysplasia: This is a condition that affects the hip joints, and can cause pain, lameness, and difficulty walking.
Elbow dysplasia: This is a condition that affects the elbow joints, and can cause pain, lameness, and difficulty walking.
Eye problems: Pocket Bullies are prone to a number of eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal ulcers.
Skin problems: Pocket Bullies can be prone to a number of skin problems, including allergies, hot spots, and dermatitis.
Breed-specific diseases: Pocket Bullies are also at risk of developing certain breed-specific diseases, such as portosystemic shunts (PSS) and heart defects.
Prevention
There is no way to completely prevent all health problems in Pocket Bullies. However, there are a number of things that you can do to help reduce your dog’s risk of developing health problems, including:
Get your dog from a reputable breeder: Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock for health problems, and will only breed dogs that are healthy and free of genetic defects.
Provide your dog with a healthy diet: A healthy diet will help to keep your dog’s immune system strong, and will reduce their risk of developing certain health problems.
Keep your dog at a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for a number of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
Get your dog regular exercise: Exercise helps to keep your dog’s muscles and joints healthy, and can also help to reduce their risk of developing obesity.
Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups: Regular checkups will allow your vet to detect any health problems early on, when they are easier to treat.
If you are considering getting a Pocket Bully, it is important to be aware of the potential health problems that they can suffer from. However, it is also important to remember that Pocket Bullies are generally healthy dogs, and can make wonderful companions.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your Pocket Bully healthy:
Avoid over-exercising your dog. Pocket Bullies are not built for vigorous exercise, and too much activity can put stress on their joints and muscles.
Keep your dog cool in hot weather. Pocket Bullies are prone to heatstroke, so it is important to keep them cool and hydrated in hot weather.
Be careful with toys. Pocket Bullies have strong jaws, and can easily chew through toys that are not designed for them.
Brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Pocket Bullies are prone to dental problems, so it is important to brush their teeth regularly.
Trim your dog’s nails regularly. Untrimmed nails can cause pain and discomfort, and can also damage furniture and flooring.
Take your dog to the groomer for regular baths and haircuts. Pocket Bullies have short hair, but they still need to be bathed and groomed regularly.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your Pocket Bully healthy and happy for many years to come.
