White Swiss Shepherd health: what owners should know
Conditions the White Swiss Shepherd is known to be prone to, breeder screening and everyday habits that help.
The breed is known to be predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy (a progressive spinal cord disease), allergies and digestive sensitivity. Many White Swiss Shepherds carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which makes them sensitive to certain common medications. Responsible breeders X-ray hips and elbows and DNA test for degenerative myelopathy and MDR1.
If your dog's MDR1 status is known, make sure every vet treating it is aware. Keep your dog slim and avoid heavy exercise during growth. Consult a vet about hind-leg weakness, scuffing toenails or wobbling, chronic itching or ear infections, and ongoing diarrhea. Retching without producing anything, a swollen belly and restlessness after a meal need emergency care.
Numbers worth knowing
Life expectancy
12 to 14 yrs
Senior care
Individual assessment
age alone does not define care needs
Typical breed weight
25 to 40 kg