Understanding the health of your Scottish Terrier

Quick answer

Scottish Terriers are a distinct breed with a unique set of health considerations. While they are known for their confident and loyal nature, they are also prone to specific medical conditions ranging from hormonal imbalances to certain types of cancer. Understanding these predispositions allows you to monitor your dog closely and seek professional care at the first sign of change.

Von Willebrand Disease

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It is a bleeding disorder where the blood fails to clot properly. Owners often notice this when a minor injury, such as a small cut or a dental procedure, results in bleeding that does not stop as expected. Your vet will perform a specific blood test to measure the levels of clotting factors in the blood. This is well recognised in the breed, and how this passes down is not settled.

Cutaneous Lymphoma

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It is a form of cancer that specifically affects the skin. You might notice red, itchy, or scaly patches on your dog's skin that do not respond to standard allergy treatments. Your vet will likely perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Melanoma

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. These are tumors that can appear on the skin, between the toes, or inside the mouth. You might notice a dark, pigmented growth or a mass that seems to be changing shape or size. Your vet will examine these areas during routine check-ups and may recommend a fine-needle aspirate or biopsy to determine the nature of the growth. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Cushing's Disease and Hyperadrenocorticism

These terms refer to the same condition, which is a recognised tendency in the breed. It occurs when the body produces an excess of cortisol. Owners often notice an increase in thirst, frequent urination, and a pot-bellied appearance. You may also notice dermatologic signs, such as thinning hair or skin that appears fragile. Your vet will use blood panels and urine tests to confirm the hormonal imbalance. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Scottie Cramp

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It is a movement disorder that typically appears when the dog is excited or exercising. You might notice your dog's back arching, their limbs becoming stiff, or their gait appearing awkward or jerky. The episode usually passes once the dog rests. Your vet will observe the dog's movement and rule out other neurological issues. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It involves abnormal bone growth, typically affecting the jaw. You might notice your puppy having difficulty eating, drooling, or showing signs of pain when their mouth is touched. Your vet will use X-rays to look for characteristic bone changes. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Cancers

Beyond specific types like lymphoma and melanoma, there is a general recognised tendency in the breed toward the development of various cancers. Because these can present in many ways, any new lump, bump, or unexplained change in your dog's behavior or appetite should be investigated. Your vet will use imaging and tissue sampling to reach a diagnosis. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Hypothyroidism

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, leading to a slow metabolism. You might notice your dog gaining weight despite a normal diet, becoming lethargic, or having poor coat quality. Your vet will run blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. This is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Cerebellar Abiotrophy

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It is a condition that affects the part of the brain responsible for coordination. You might notice your dog having trouble balancing, walking with a wide stance, or showing tremors. Your vet will perform a neurological exam to assess coordination and balance. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and how this passes down is not settled.