The Sussex Spaniel History

The Health of The Sussex Spaniel

Breed Health

Generally the Sussex Spaniel is long lived to 14-16 years. The Health Survey of the Breed has been completed, and results are available to members from the secretary.

The Health Sub-Committee strongly recommends that breeding stock, dogs and bitches are hip-scored under the KC/BVA Hip scoring Scheme.

Please read the British Veterinary Association information about the Scheme and their "Guide to Dog Owners" on their website:

The Sussex Spaniel Breed average hip score i.e. Breed Mean Score is 37. Your Vet who does the x-ray of your dog or bitch and submits it to the KC/BVA Scheme may not be aware that the Sussex Spaniel is a Vulnerable British Heritage Breed.

If your dog/bitch should have a high degree of Hip Dysplasia, then please get further advice from the Health Sub-Committee. It's important that breed type and temperament is taken into account when breeding plans are made.

Hip scoring can be expensive, but it is a once only event. This can be done once the dog is one year old and over.

Puppy owners are advised not to over-exercise their puppies in the critical growth stage up to 6 months. Puppy food should be well balanced for their requirements, as advised by the Breeder.

HEALTH NOTES
Skin problems - Some of these are caused by an allergy to chicken, beef and wheat. It’s important to eliminate a food allergy first of all. Red and itchy ears are a good indicator. Also there are other allergies to consider, allergies to house dust and mites, plus grass allergy, but these appear to be less easy to eradicate. Hot spots (Wet eczema) occur as a reaction to flea or insect bites, and are also hormone related. An early trip to the vet is advised for medication to clear this painful condition
Ear problems - These problems occur in all spaniel breeds and Sussex Spaniels are no exception. Owners should check their dog’s ears regularly and keep them clean with a recommended ear cleaner. Puppy owners should start early and get their puppies used to having their ears handled and cleaned. In older age the ear canals thicken and polyps develop, hence they are harder to clean.
Bloat – This has occurred in a small number of Sussex Spaniels and Owners should be aware that this is a life threatening condition. If you suspect your dog has Bloat, you need to take your dog to your vet urgently. There is excellent advice and full information available on the following website:www.vetinfo.com/dog-bloat.html
Your vet is the person to consult with any health problem and treatment. We can only advise in a general capacity.

SSA Health Sub-Committee Members


Ann Moon - Breed Health Co-ordinator Tel:01622 744334: email ann-moon@talktalk.net
Grace Brown: email browns@rangatira.freeserve.co.uk
Sheila Appleby: email secretary@sussexspaniels.org.uk
Daphne Bailey: email daphne@daelyb.fsnet.co.uk

Christine Swietalski: email c.swietalski@btinternet.com