Bloodhound Health Problems: What Every Owner Should Know

Bloodhound health problems centre on gastric dilatation-volvulus, orthopaedic disease, and eye conditions shaped by this breed's deep chest, large frame, and characteristic loose facial skin. Research identifies Bloodhounds among the highest-risk breeds for GDV, with breed health surveys reporting it as the leading cause of death at 34.1% of all reported fatalities. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals data records a 26% abnormal hip dysplasia rate across 3,732 evaluations, ranking the breed 22nd among 147 evaluated breeds, while ACVO registry data documents entropion in roughly one in five examined dogs. Bloodhound common diseases cited below, and planning across Bloodhound lifespan, inform this veterinarian-reviewed BreedRisk guide.

Most Common Health Conditions in Bloodhounds

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, occurs when the stomach fills with gas and rotates on itself, cutting off blood supply to surrounding organs. It is a life-threatening emergency that can be fatal within hours if untreated. Glickman et al. (2000) identified Bloodhounds as among the highest-risk breeds for GDV, and Kennel Club/BSAVA Purebred Dog Health Survey data report GDV as the leading cause of death in the breed, accounting for 34.1% of all reported Bloodhound fatalities. Onset typically occurs between three and twelve years of age. Early signs include unproductive retching, a distended abdomen, restlessness, and rapid deterioration. Preventive gastropexy surgery can be discussed with your veterinarian for high-risk breeds.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia develops when the hip joint forms abnormally, leading to looseness, cartilage wear, and progressive arthritis. OFA hip screening reports a 26% abnormal rate in Bloodhounds based on 3,732 evaluations, ranking the breed 22nd among 147 evaluated breeds. Signs typically emerge between one and four years of age and include stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, and a swaying or bunny-hopping gait. OFA certification radiographs at 24 months support early diagnosis and management before significant arthritis develops.

Entropion

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the eye surface and leading to chronic irritation, pain, and potential corneal ulceration. In Bloodhounds, entropion is caused by the weight and excess loose skin around the head and face — a characteristic feature of the breed. ACVO Blue Book data report a 21.1% prevalence based on 626 examinations (1993–2019), with 13.1% in the recent sample (2020–2024). Onset can occur from birth to two years of age. Signs include squinting, excessive tearing, eye redness, and pawing at the face. Surgical correction is generally very successful when performed early.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia encompasses developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint that cause pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis. OFA elbow screening reports a 15% abnormal rate in Bloodhounds based on 1,914 evaluations — roughly one in seven tested dogs. Onset typically occurs between one and three years of age. Signs include forelimb lameness, stiffness after rest, and reluctance to exercise. Early radiographic evaluation and weight management improve long-term comfort and mobility.

Health Risks by Age for Bloodhounds

Based on GDV research, OFA screening data, and ACVO registry statistics cited on this page.

Symptoms to Watch For

Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice any of the following signs in your Bloodhound.

• Unproductive retching or attempting to vomit without bringing anything up that may indicate gastric dilatation-volvulus — seek emergency care immediately.
• Visibly distended or bloated abdomen combined with restlessness, pacing, or signs of pain that may indicate GDV.
• Excessive drooling or salivation with rapid weakness or collapse that warrants same-day emergency veterinary assessment for bloat.
• Stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, or a swaying gait that may indicate hip dysplasia.
• Forelimb lameness or stiffness after rest in young adults that may indicate elbow dysplasia.
• Squinting, excessive tearing, eye redness, or pawing at the face that may indicate entropion.
• Visible inward rolling of the eyelid or chronic eye discharge that warrants ophthalmic examination for entropion.

Bloodhound Breed Profile

• Breed group: Hound
• Life span: 10 – 12 years
• Weight: 36 – 50 kg (79 – 110 lbs)
• Height: 58 – 69 cm (23 – 27 in)
• Temperament: Gentle, Affectionate, Stubborn, Independent, Even Tempered, Patient
• Bred for: Scent tracking and man trailing
• Origin: Belgium, United Kingdom

Read our full guide: Hip Dysplasia in Dogs — What Every Owner Should Know

Frequently Asked Questions