Tibia Bone Deformity in a Redbone Coonhound

Rebone coonhounds were bred for their nose as well as their coat.

The Redbone coonhound was bred from foxhounds for its stunning red coat and highly developed ability to track and tree prey. A healthy and active breed, Redbone coonhounds breed true and experience few genetic or breed-related diseases.

Tibia Deformity

While tibia deformities are not common among Redbone coonhounds, a genetic disorder exists among dogs in general called osteochondrodysplasia (OCD). OCD expresses itself throughout the body affecting the normal growth and development of bones and cartilages. A form of OCD is achondroplasia specifically affecting the bones of one or more of the legs.

Hip dysplasia

Redbone coonhounds are not subject to a breed specific genetic disorder. However, all Redbone coonhound owners should monitor new puppies for symptoms of hip dysplasia. This malformation of the hip joint generally occurs early on and becomes diagnosable at four months. If not treated, hip dysplasia can cause persistent arthritis and/or loss of function.

Food For Thought

Redbone coonhounds did not exist as a breed until the 1800s when hunters began a selective breeding program to create a solid-red coated hunting dog. The close selection of its progenitors may explain why Redbone coonhounds have so few genetic disorders.

References

• American Kennel Club: AKC MEET THE BREEDS®: Redbone Coonhound
• Terrific Pets: Redbone Coonhounds
• Terrific Pets: Congenital Disorder Causes Front Leg Deformity in Dogs
• Pet MD: Bone Deformity and Dwarfism in Dogs
• Pet MD: Hip Dysplasia in Dogs