Another medically based cause of behavior problems in Chesapeakes is one of a range of disorders which are caused by the dog s own immune system turning against itself. These diseases are lumped together under the category autoimmune . Immune-mediated neuropathies can cause sudden aggression, seizures and difficulties moving about. Addison s disease can cause increased thirst, accompanied by increased urination. Some types of immune problem can lead to chronic bouts of diarrhea.
Autoimmune disorders are often difficult to diagnose.
Many are associated with the presence of auto-thyroid antibodies in the blood. Sometimes, treating with thyroid hormones can help with the other symptoms. Most hereditary autoimmune problems in Chesapeakes are expensive to treat and often lead to a shorter life expectancy for the dog. If a rescue dog has one of these disorders, extra special care must be taken when placing the dog, as the stress of being bounced from one home to another can seriously aggravate the disease. Chesapeakes who are owner give-ups to animal shelters or owner placements are prone to separation anxiety.