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CHERRY EYE. (Neapolitan Mastiff) Cherry eye is the common
name for a the condition called glandular hypertrophy, caused
when the gland of the third eyelid (the nictating membrane) of
the dog, becomes inflamed, swells up and pops out of place on
the bulbar side of the third eyelid. It then becomes more inflamed,
swollen and irritated such that it becomes bloody and ulcerated.
The condition is then referred to as follicular conjunctivitis.
When the dog develops cherry eye, veterinarians either pop it
back into place, or simply remove the gland, depending on the
severity of the condition and the age of the dog.
GROWING PAINS. (Both breeds) Large breed dogs are often
found to have such things as growing pains, more correctly known
as panosteitis. This happens during puppy hood, usually starts
at about 4 - 6 months old, and generally causes pain in all the
joints and/or bones (humerus and femur being most common). Because
the dogs grow so quickly and their bodies are growing so much
everyday, this takes a big toll on the muscles and tendons. Too
much exercise, or rough play is hard on a pup. This condition
is usually self-limiting, but if the pup really seems to be suffering,
take it to your veterinarian and get proper care.
HIP DYSPLASIA. (Both breeds) Mild to moderate hip dysplasia
is common reality in both breeds. They are not small dogs and
their hips tend to be a bit looser in general. Too much exercise
at any age is to be avoided. Rough housing with a pup can lead
to permanent injury to hips and elbows. Hip Dysplasia is found
in many large breeds, not only the Neapolitan Mastiff and Bullmastiff.
ELBOW DYSPLASIA. (Both breeds) Though commonly referred
to as elbow dysplasia, this actually encompasses a few individual
specific problems with the elbow joint. Both breeds are prone
to this problem, in common with some of the other larger breeds. |
