Gundog Training Forum

Just had my three year old cocker dog diagnosed with bradycadia (slow heart beat). After a full season picking up on the grouse moors and a heavy scedule on pheasant days, we came through without any health problems. His body condition was good, but some three weeks ago, I noticed he held his head low and would not work when asked. Instead, he clinged to my boot and just plodded along. Appart from his lethagy, he looked in excellent health. A trip to the vet diagnosed a heart rate of 38, so it looks likely things are not looking good for the little fellow with regard to his hunting ability. I will retire him and give him an easy life. Sad but there we go.

How sad and at such a young age. I hope he enjoys his retirement and takes things easy .

Soft bed & lots of love ...

Best of luck.

I suppose they did test for under-active thyroid? I had a dog a few years ago that got very lethargic, almost had to drag him out of the house to go for a walk. They found he had an under-active thyroid. Put him on tablets for the rest of his life and he was so much better.

The vet wanted to go down the route of ECG and possible pacemaker. I asked the questions of whether he would improve to the extent of returning to my picking up team, but the answer to this was NO. He seems to prod about and its appears he knows his limitations, so I let him take it easy.