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I've had 2 Rotts die suddnely on me in 4 years, 1

Sent to Pet Experts April 13, 2007 6:22 a.m.

I've had 2 Rotts die suddenly on me in 4 years, 1 at 4 years dropped dead in front of me, the other problems breathing and died at the vets of heart failure 2 hours later. These dogs were apartment dogs and though I exercised them they both laid around a lot. Is that hard on Rotts or big dogs in general? Is there a dog best suited for that kind of living? I love Rotts more than any other but I don't want to put another through that or myself.
Or should I just stick to my cats who are both 9?

Optional Information:
Age: 4; Male; Breed: ROTT

Already Tried:
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Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $15

Answer
April 13, 2007 9:00 a.m. (2 hours and 37 minutes later)

ACCEPTED

Dear friend,

I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved pets.It is true that big dogs need a LOT of exercise, like several long daily walks.Rottie's also need a job to do or they get very bored. I honestly do not know if apartment living had anything to do with their respiratory problems, however, it could have been a factor. If the dogs were related they could also have had genetic issues. ne dog may have died of bloat so here is a link to avoid that in the future:

http://www.globalspan.net/bloat.htm

http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_bloat.html

Of course cats are MUCH easier to care for and do not mind being housebound. Even small dogs need walks and exercise because it is the nature of dogs to walk.That is just what they do.There are some breeds that can be a bit more adaptable to being kept indoors, but if you love rotties, you can get a new baby if you make provisions for doggie day care, etc. Also make sure you buy from a reputable breeder that certifies her kennel free from health issues like hip displasia. One of our experts, Jane breeds rotties - she says "Rotts can do fine in an apt as long as they have one good, long walk a day".

Please let me know if you have any more questions or wish to discuss this further.I am happy to help.

I wish you all the best with a new baby.

Very sincerely,

Terri

Edited by Terri Riba on April 13 2007 at 10:44am

Terri Riba -- Animal Healthcare expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2571 Pet Accepts
20+ years in vet care experience in medicine, behavior, nutrition, holistics

Reply
Sent April 13, 2007 1:04 p.m. (4 hours and 4 minutes later)

Neither died of respiratory problems. 1 dropped dead in front of me but not of breathing problems (don't know exactly why), the other died of heart failure (the vet took an x-ray) before he died. The first was 4 the other 5 1/2. They were not related. What breeds are more adaptable to being indoors?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Info Request
April 13, 2007 1:11 p.m. (7 minutes and 36 seconds later)

Hi,

Would you consider another Rotti based on what Jane has said? I posted her opinion to you. Or do you prefer a smaller breed?

Thanks,

Terri

Terri Riba -- Animal Healthcare expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2571 Pet Accepts
20+ years in vet care experience in medicine, behavior, nutrition, holistics

Reply
Sent April 13, 2007 1:20 p.m. (8 minutes and 35 seconds later)

I can give a Rott a long walk every day--I can even have my neighbor walk him again later. I'm gone 11-12 hours a day. The dog has to stay in the 2 car garage. Is this harmful to not have a more room for the dog to move around? Am I killing them? What breed is more suited to that kind of living?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Answer
April 13, 2007 1:41 p.m. (20 minutes and 46 seconds later)

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Terri Riba -- Animal Healthcare expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2571 Pet Accepts
20+ years in vet care experience in medicine, behavior, nutrition, holistics

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