Entlebucher Mountain Dog health: what owners should know

The breed has a relatively small gene pool and is known for hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (a DNA test exists for one form) and Entlebucher urinary syndrome, a malformation of the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys. Responsible breeders hip and elbow score their dogs, have eyes examined and use DNA tests where available. Ask breeders how they manage genetic diversity, not just which tests they run.

Support your dog by keeping it lean, building fitness gradually and booking yearly check-ups. See a vet if your Entle strains to urinate, leaks urine, drinks noticeably more than usual, seems unsure in dim light, or shows lameness that lasts more than a couple of days.