Preserving and Protecting Joints in French Brittany Dogs

This thoughtful and hard post comes from two places.

Firstly I have seen so many people in my life ruin a dogs hips that would have been genetically good with 1) poor nutrition on a developing puppy and 2) Forced running or inappropriate exercise on a puppy before the growth plates have closed.

That often means a dog that must be put down late in life or live it’s life on pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs killing the liver and kidneys. All of those things are preventable.

The second place this all comes from is my recent return from my knee surgeon. New radiographs and MRI’s show I need two knee replacements ASAP. Why? Too many poor decisions when I was young and knew everything. I grew up racing BMX, Skateboarding, roller skating, skiing, riding dirt bikes and wrestling. I was a breakdancer and beat and abused my knees all my life because I knew I was indestructible. Until I wasn’t.

Now there is no way I can even take my dogs back out without getting my knees replaced and then doing all the physical therapy to get walking again.

My dogs depend on my mobility their lives are enriched by it. So it really had me thinking about preserving their joints as well since they enrich my life and I depend on them.

The French Brittany, a charming and versatile breed with an intriguing history, is known for its boundless energy and close partnership with its human companions. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to joint issues, particularly as they age. This article will delve into the importance of joint health in French Brittany dogs, and how owners can help preserve and protect their joints from puppyhood through to their golden years.

The French Brittany: A Background

The French Brittany dog, often simply referred to as the “Brittany”, is a breed that hails from the picturesque province of Brittany in northwest France¹. They were developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, primarily as gundogs². Renowned for their strong hunting instincts and tireless energy, the Brittany has become a popular companion for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide³.

Exercise Guidelines for Puppies

Just like humans, dogs have growth plates that eventually close as they mature. For Brittany puppies, this typically happens when they are around two years old. Until then, it’s important to monitor and regulate their exercise to prevent any potential damage to these growth plates.

While Brittany puppies are naturally energetic and love to play, it’s crucial to avoid strenuous or high-impact activities, such as long-distance running or jumping from heights. Instead, opt for shorter, more frequent periods of moderate exercise. This can include gentle walks, playtime in a safe and controlled environment, and activities that encourage mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.

Jumping up or going uphill is milder on joints than jumping down or going downhill. Also we don’t want any forced running at all before age two. Puppies will run around and play on their own and this is safe, but when we go jogging for example, the puppy wants to be with us so badly it will run to keep up with us. It looks like everything is going fine but they are actually ruining their joints just to be with us.

Preventing ACL Tears

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears are a common injury among dogs, particularly those that are active and energetic like the Brittany⁴. To help prevent these injuries, consider incorporating specific exercises that strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, such as controlled uphill walks or swimming. Also keeping dogs conditioned for the activities they are going to do is much better than resting a dog all year long then loading it in the truck for opening weekend of hunting.

A balanced diet, rich in joint-supporting nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, can also play a crucial role in maintaining joint health. Additionally, certain supplements and innovative orthopaedic products may aid in injury prevention, though it’s always recommended to consult with a veterinarian before introducing these to your dog’s routine.

Joint Health in Aging Dogs

As French Brittany dogs enter their senior years, it’s not uncommon for them to experience issues related to joint health. Degenerative joint diseases, such as arthritis, can significantly impact their quality of life.

To help prevent these conditions, continue to provide regular, moderate exercise to keep joints flexible and muscles strong. Regular vet check-ups are also key to early detection and management of any potential issues.

Finally, maintaining a healthy weight is critical. Excess weight can put unnecessary strain on your dog’s joints, leading to accelerated wear and tear. A balanced diet, combined with regular exercise, will help ensure your Brittany remains at a healthy weight throughout its life.

In conclusion, while French Brittany dogs are a breed known for their energy and agility, they’re not immune to joint issues. However, with the right care – including appropriate exercise, a balanced diet, and regular vet check-ups – you can help ensure your Brittany stays healthy, happy, and active for many years to come.