Cancer remains the top health issue reported in canines. 32.5% of the Bouviers that entered the OFA health survey reported having “cancer or tumors.” Hemangiosarcoma was the most common single cancer diagnosis. BHF has provided funding to support research grants to study hemangiosarcoma.

Orthopedic disorders are found in 20% of the Bouvier dogs in our health survey. Arthritis is the most common followed by hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament ruptures, and elbow dysplasia.

Allergies are common and varied, including atopy ( seasonal and non-seasonal inhalants), flea, food, topical/contact, and drug allergies. Treatment of allergies can be very expensive and stressful often requiring lifelong medications and special diets.

The most common GI disorder is Inflammatory bowel disease, followed by colitis. Factors contributing to IBD include food allergies, an abnormal immune system, bacteria, parasites, and genetics.

Eye problems are reported in 11% of the Bouvier dogs surveyed. Glaucoma is the most common eye problem followed by cataracts. Both are considered inherited and there is extensive research being done to identify genetic markers for both. The BHF has been an active participant in several of these studies, providing funding, education, and DNA samples. Click here to learn more about glaucoma.

Neurological problems identified include seizures, stenosis and disc disease, and degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative myelopathy is an inherited problem, caused by the SOD1 allele.

Hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine issue in Bouviers. It is followed by Pancreatitis, Addison's disease, and Cushing's disease. Hypothyroidism, Pancreatitis, and Addison's disease are considered inherited diseases. However, in the case of Cushing's disease, no direct inheritance has been established, but there appears to be a genetic predisposition in certain breeds.

Reproductive health in Bouviers has made significant improvements over the years. In 2004 it was reported that litter and puppy problems occurred in 33.5% of the litters. The problems included stillborn puppies and fading puppies. Today, pyometra is the most common reproductive problem and there is no report of problems with litters.

Cardiovascular diseases such as subaortic stenosis (SAS) continue to be an inherited problem in the Bouvier breed. Its occurrence has been significantly reduced over the last 20 years. Hopefully, this positive result is a result of cardiac testing, and the dogs with SAS (and other heart issues) are being excluded from breeding programs.

Immune-mediated hypothyroidism and autoimmune hemolytic anemia are the two most common immunological problems in Bouviers, although they are very rare. Immune-mediated hypothyroidism is an inherited disease, while autoimmune hemolytic anemia is not. The most common cause of autoimmune-mediated anemia is immune-mediated, although it can also be caused by toxins, infections, tumors, and other causes.