As a proud owner of a Cane Corso, you might have noticed that your furry friend is prone to suffering from certain health conditions, some of which can be quite serious. One such issue that Cane Corsos are susceptible to is breathing problems, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the causes of Cane Corso breathing problems, the various types of breathing difficulties, and how to manage these challenges if they arise.
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What Causes Cane Corso Breathing Problems?
Before we dive into the various types of breathing problems that Cane Corsos can experience, it’s important to first understand what causes these issues. There are a few different factors that can contribute to respiratory problems in this breed, including genetics, environmental factors, and certain health conditions.
Genetics
Like many large dog breeds, Cane Corsos are prone to a number of genetic health issues, including respiratory problems. Specifically, Cane Corsos are predisposed to a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS), which is common in many brachycephalic breeds. BAS can affect the upper respiratory tract, causing difficulties with breathing during exercise or even when at rest.
Environmental Factors
In addition to genetic predisposition, certain environmental factors can also play a role in Cane Corso breathing problems. For example, environmental irritants like dust, smoke, and pollutants can exacerbate respiratory difficulties in dogs that are already prone to these issues. Similarly, exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold) can also cause breathing difficulties in dogs.
Health Conditions
Finally, certain underlying health conditions can also cause breathing problems in Cane Corsos. For example, obesity can make breathing more difficult for any dog, including Cane Corsos. Additionally, respiratory infections or diseases, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, can also cause breathing difficulties in dogs.
Types of Cane Corso Breathing Problems
Now that we’ve covered some of the potential causes of breathing problems in Cane Corsos, let’s take a closer look at the different types of respiratory issues that these dogs can experience. There are several different types of breathing difficulties that can affect Cane Corsos, including:
Read also: Cane Corso Heart Problems
1. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS)
As mentioned earlier, BAS is a fairly common condition in many brachycephalic breeds, including Cane Corsos. This condition is caused by a combination of genetic factors and physical traits that can cause the airways to become obstructed. Dogs with BAS may experience symptoms like snoring, noisy breathing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing during exercise or when excited.
2. Laryngeal Paralysis
Laryngeal paralysis is another condition that can affect Cane Corsos. This condition occurs when the muscles in the larynx (located in the throat) become weak or fail to function properly. Dogs with laryngeal paralysis may experience symptoms like coughing, gagging, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance.
3. Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal collapse is a condition that occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, collapses inward. This can lead to difficulty breathing, coughing, and exercise intolerance. While tracheal collapse can affect dogs of any breed, it is more common in small, toy breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers. However, Cane Corsos can also develop this condition.
4. Obesity
While not a respiratory condition in its own right, obesity can exacerbate breathing difficulties in Cane Corsos. Overweight dogs may struggle to take deep breaths, leading to respiratory issues during exercise or when exerting themselves.
Managing Cane Corso Breathing Problems
If your Cane Corso is experiencing breathing difficulties, it’s important to take him to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Depending on the specific type of respiratory issue that your dog is experiencing, your vet may recommend one or more of the following management strategies:
1. Medications
Depending on the underlying cause of your Cane Corso’s respiratory difficulties, your vet may prescribe medications to help manage his symptoms. For example, dogs with BAS may benefit from bronchodilators, which help to open up the airways and make breathing easier.
2. Lifestyle Changes
In many cases, making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage Cane Corso breathing problems. For example, if your dog is overweight, your vet may recommend a weight-loss plan to reduce the strain on his respiratory system. Additionally, avoiding environmental irritants like smoke and dust can also help reduce respiratory difficulties.
3. Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address certain respiratory issues in Cane Corsos. For example, dogs with laryngeal paralysis may benefit from a procedure called a tie-back surgery, which helps to open up the airways and make breathing easier. Similarly, dogs with tracheal collapse may benefit from a surgical procedure to reinforce the trachea and prevent it from collapsing inward.
Prevention is Key
While it’s important to understand how to manage breathing problems if they arise, preventing these issues from occurring in the first place is the best course of action. Here are a few things you can do to help prevent breathing problems in your Cane Corso:
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Select a Breeder Carefully
If you’re considering adding a Cane Corso to your family, it’s important to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes responsible breeding practices. Look for a breeder who conducts health screenings on their breeding dogs to help identify potential genetic health issues.
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Keep Your Dog at a Healthy Weight
As we mentioned earlier, obesity can make breathing more difficult for Cane Corsos. Be sure to feed your dog a healthy diet and provide plenty of opportunities for exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
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Avoid Environmental Irritants
All dogs can benefit from avoiding environmental irritants like cigarette smoke and dust, but this is particularly important for Cane Corsos and other breeds that are prone to respiratory issues. Use air filters in your home and avoid smoking around your pets.
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Avoid Over-Exerting Your Dog
Conclusion
Breathing problems can be a serious issue for Cane Corsos and can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding the potential causes of respiratory difficulties in this breed and taking appropriate steps to manage these issues can help ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. If you suspect that your Cane Corso is having trouble breathing, be sure to take him to the vet as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right care and attention, Cane Corsos with respiratory issues can still lead happy, fulfilling lives.
Finally, be mindful of your Cane Corso’s exercise level and avoid over-exerting him. Not only can excessive exercise lead to fatigue and breathing difficulties, but it can also increase the risk of other health issues, like joint problems.
