Understanding Silky Terrier Health Issues and Risks

Silky Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health issues in Silky Terriers is patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place.

Silky Terriers are also at risk for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a condition where the hip joint deteriorates due to a lack of blood supply. This can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.

Silky Terriers are a small breed, and as such, they can be prone to dental issues. Tooth decay and gum disease are common problems in Silky Terriers, and regular dental care is essential to prevent these issues.

Silky Terriers can also be prone to eye problems, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can lead to blindness if left untreated.

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Silky Terriers are relatively healthy dogs, but they can develop some health issues throughout their long life.

Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet's breed.

Silky Terriers are more at risk for certain health problems than other breeds, but that doesn't mean your dog will definitely get them.

It's essential to know about the most common issues seen in Silky Terriers to give you an idea of what may come up in your dog's future.

You can't cover every possibility here, so always check with your veterinarian if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.

A general health information guide for your Silky Terrier recommends brushing your dog's teeth daily to prevent periodontal disease.

Illustrations, such as the one showing patellar luxation, can help you recognize potential health issues early on.

Silky Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can develop certain health issues. One of the most common chronic problems in pets is dental disease, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two, and Silky Terriers are more likely to have problems with their teeth.

Dental disease can start with tartar build-up on the teeth and progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth, leading to tooth loss and potential damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. Regular dental cleanings and at-home dental care can help prevent or treat dental disease.

Silky Terriers are also prone to liver problems, such as portosystemic shunt (PSS), where some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving it of the blood flow it needs to function properly. This can lead to symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, and may require surgery or a special diet and medication.

Your Silky is more likely to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). This condition can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. This can cause the liver to become inefficient at removing toxins from the bloodstream.

If your Silky has PSS, he may not show any symptoms at first. However, if he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, it's essential to have his blood tested and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver.

We'll conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time your Silky undergoes anesthesia. This is to ensure his liver is functioning properly before any surgical procedures.

Surgery may be needed in some cases, but in other cases, we can treat PSS with a special diet and medication.

As a Silky Terrier owner, it's essential to be aware of potential health issues that may arise. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they're related to your pet's breed.

Silky Terriers are more at risk for certain health problems, but that doesn't mean your dog will definitely develop them. By knowing what to watch for, you can take preventative measures and seek veterinary help if necessary.

Some common issues seen in Silky Terriers include patellar luxation, a condition where the knee cap moves out of its normal groove. This can be a painful and debilitating condition if left untreated.

Hypothyroidism, or insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone, can also affect Silky Terriers. Symptoms include weight gain, behavioral changes, hair loss, and dull coat and skin infections.

If you notice any unusual signs or symptoms in your Silky Terrier, such as excessive eating and drinking, lethargy, or changes in behavior, it's crucial to seek veterinary help right away. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which can be a clear signal that your Silky Terrier needs help.

Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Unfortunately, your Silky Terrier is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth.

It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. This can lead to serious health issues, including damaging your Silky's kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

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If left untreated, dental disease can shorten your Silky's life span by one to three years. Regular dental cleanings and at-home care can prevent or treat dental disease.

Brushing your dog's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease. This simple habit can make a big difference in your Silky's oral health.

Tumors, both benign and cancerous, can look like anything, including a red swelling on the skin surface, which is a cancer known as a Mast Cell Tumor. Have all lumps and bumps checked out to ensure your Silky's health.

Dental disease can develop quickly in Silky Terriers due to the buildup of tartar and calculus. Bad breath, tooth root abscesses, and loss of teeth can occur if proper dental care is not provided.

Silky Terriers are prone to a neurological disorder called epilepsy, which can cause seizures. This condition often begins between six months and three years of age.

Reactive seizures are caused by a brain's reaction to a metabolic problem, while secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy.

If your Silky Terrier has a seizure, carefully prevent them from injuring themselves, but don't try to control their mouth or tongue. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects dogs, causing seizures that can be distressing to witness. It's essential to understand the different types of seizures, which include reactive, secondary, and primary seizures.

Reactive seizures are caused by a brain reaction to metabolic problems, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no underlying cause is found, the condition is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy.

Silky Terriers are commonly afflicted with idiopathic epilepsy, which is often an inherited condition. If your dog is prone to seizures, they may start between six months and three years of age.

An initial diagnostic workup can help find the cause of the seizures. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness.

If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent them from injuring themselves, but don't try to control their mouth or tongue. Note the length of the seizure, and call a veterinarian or emergency hospital for assistance.

Here are some general guidelines for seizure duration and potential damage:

Keep in mind that every dog is different, and the severity of seizures can vary greatly. If you suspect your dog has epilepsy, consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Mast Cell Tumor is a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Silky Terriers.

The sooner Mast Cell Tumors are surgically removed, the better.

They often look just like other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, some of which are harmless and others not.

All suspicious lumps should be tested, and any questionable lump should be surgically removed as soon as possible.

Mast Cell Tumors are a serious issue, but many are cured by surgically removing them.

Early detection and removal is critical for a successful outcome.

Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, so it's essential to act quickly.

Silky Terriers are prone to skin allergies, which we call atopy. This condition makes their skin itchy, commonly affecting the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears.

Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs.

Regular grooming and monitoring can help catch skin issues early. Silkys should be bathed with a gentle dog shampoo every four to six weeks to prevent yeast infections.

If you notice your dog is itchy or licking/chewing themselves a lot, it could be a sign of a skin issue. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Silky Terriers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, the same ones that all dogs can get.

These infections include parvo, rabies, and distemper, which are all serious and potentially life-threatening.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which is a crucial part of keeping your Silky Terrier healthy and safe.

Vaccination recommendations will be based on the diseases we see in our area, heritage, and other factors.

Parasites can be a serious concern for our furry friends, causing pain, discomfort, and even death if left untreated. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can invade your Silky's body through contaminated soil, unclean water, or infected mosquitoes.

Fleas and ticks are common parasites that can infest your dog's skin and ears, causing discomfort and potentially leading to more serious health issues. Ear mites can also infest your dog's ears, leading to scratching and discomfort.

Parasites can be transmitted to humans and are a serious concern for everyone in the household. Regular testing and preventive medication can help keep your Silky healthy and prevent the spread of parasites.

Silky Terriers are prone to skin issues, especially allergies. Atopy, a skin allergy, affects many Silkys, causing itchiness on their feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears.

Symptoms of atopy typically start between the ages of one and three and can worsen every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent skin issues. Silkys should be bathed with a gentle dog shampoo every four to six weeks.

Checking for greasiness, odor, black coloration, or thickening on the skin can help identify potential skin issues. If you notice your dog is itchy or licking/chewing themselves a lot, schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible.

Hair loss can be a concerning issue for Silky Terrier owners.

Color Dilution Alopecia is a form of hair loss seen more frequently in Silky Terriers than in other breeds.

It's not a painful condition itself, but it can sometimes lead to secondary bacterial infections that are bothersome.

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Other forms of hair loss, such as those caused by low thyroid level, Demodex mites, or poor nutrition, should be ruled out before diagnosing Color Dilution Alopecia.

There is no treatment available for Color Dilution Alopecia, so it's essential to address any underlying health issues that may be contributing to hair loss.

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Silky terriers are prone to several endocrine system issues that can impact their health and quality of life. Cushing's Disease is a common problem in dogs, and Silkys are more likely than other dogs to be affected.

The early signs of Cushing's Disease can be easily missed, but they include increased drinking and urination, increased appetite, and reduced activity level. Later symptoms include a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss.

Silky terriers are also prone to hypothyroidism, a condition where the body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. This can cause dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes.

Diabetes is another serious condition that can affect Silkys, with symptoms including increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If your Silky shows these signs, it's essential to have lab tests done to determine if he has diabetes and discuss treatment options with your veterinarian.

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Hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushing's Disease, is a common problem in dogs that affects their adrenal glands, causing them to produce too much steroid hormone.

Cushing's Disease is more likely to affect Silky dogs than other breeds, and it often develops slowly, making early signs easy to miss.

One of the early symptoms is excessive drinking and urination, which can be a sign that something is amiss.

Increased appetite and a reduced activity level are also common early signs of Cushing's Disease in dogs.

As the condition progresses, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss become characteristic symptoms.

Silkys are prone to a common condition called hypothyroidism, where the body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone.

This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including dry skin and coat, hair loss, and susceptibility to other skin diseases.

Weight gain is also a common issue, and some Silkys may exhibit fearfulness or aggression.

Annual blood screening tests can help detect hypothyroidism early on, and treatment is usually straightforward: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill.

These hormones can make a big difference in a Silky's quality of life, and regular check-ups can help ensure they're getting the care they need.

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Diabetes is a serious condition that affects dogs, including Silkys, which have an above-average incidence.

Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections.

Symptoms of diabetes in dogs include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss.

If you notice these symptoms in your furry friend, it's essential to get him checked out as soon as possible.

Lab tests can help determine if your dog has diabetes, and treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources.

With proper treatment, well-regulated diabetic dogs can have the same life expectancy as other canines.

Young Silky Terriers may be prone to a painful degenerative hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

This condition typically occurs between six and nine months of age, causing pain and lameness in one or both rear legs.

The exact cause of Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease is still not completely understood, but it's thought to be a problem with blood supply to the hip, which causes the femoral head to become brittle and easily fracture.

Surgery is usually required to treat this condition, and it's essential to catch it early to prevent further damage and pain.

Stones can also form in the urinary bladder of Silky Terriers, causing irritation and potentially obstruction.

Silky terriers are prone to certain eye disorders, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, which can lead to total blindness.

PRA develops gradually, with early signs including the inability to see in weak light, characterized by walking into objects and unwillingness to go outdoors at night.

Dogs suffering from PRA adjust to their loss of vision with the help of dedicated owners, but there is no treatment available.

Silky terriers can also develop cataracts without PRA, which can be surgically removed.

Regular eye exams with a veterinarian are crucial to detect any eye issues early on, and should be done at least once a year.

Tear staining is another issue that can affect silky terriers, and can be removed with a pet-safe wipe.

Cleaning your silky terrier's ears regularly can help minimize the risk of ear infections, which can be done with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner every two to three weeks for maintenance.

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Silky terriers are prone to certain eye disorders, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. PRA develops gradually, but eventually results in total blindness.

Early signs of PRA include inability to see in weak light, characterized by walking into objects and unwillingness to go outdoors at night. Eventually, the eyes develop cataracts, or opaque white areas around the pupil.

Silky terriers can also develop cataracts without PRA. There is no treatment for PRA, but most dogs adjust to their loss of vision with the help of dedicated owners.

Dogs suffering only from cataracts can have them surgically removed.

Ear infections are a common issue in dogs, including Silky Terriers, so it's essential to take preventative measures.

Cleaning your Silky's ears regularly can help minimize the risk of infections. Use a veterinary-approved ear cleaner and do it every two to three weeks for maintenance.

After water activities, like a bath, it's crucial to clean your Silky's ears immediately to prevent bacterial growth.

A Silky Terrier's diet is crucial for their overall health. Feed your Silky a high-quality, small-breed dog food that meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

To prevent obesity, which can lead to serious health problems, keep your Silky's diet consistent and don't give them people food. A good rule of thumb is to feed 90% dog food and no more than 10% treats.

Silky Terriers have a tendency to be overactive, so it's essential to feed them three times a day to prevent hypoglycemia. As they grow, you'll need to transition their diet from a puppy formula to an adult dog food around 1 year of age.

To keep your Silky's teeth healthy, brush them at least three times a week. Regular brushing and trimming of their coat will also prevent mats and keep their long coat beautiful.

Here's a summary of the essential nutrition and care tips for your Silky Terrier:

Regular brushing can help prevent periodontal disease in your Silky Terrier. Daily brushing is recommended to keep their teeth clean and healthy.

Silky Terriers are prone to genetic health issues, which means their breed can increase the risk of certain diseases. This is why it's essential to be aware of these potential problems.

Patellar luxation is a common issue in Silky Terriers, where the kneecap can slip out of its normal groove. This can be painful for your dog and may require veterinary attention.

You can help keep your Silky Terrier looking and feeling their best by following the advice in their health guide. This includes general health information and tips for preventing specific health issues.

Genetic predispositions can affect Silky Terriers, but it's essential to remember that this doesn't mean your dog will definitely develop these problems. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify any potential issues early on.

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If you notice any unusual signs in your Silky Terrier, it's essential to seek medical care immediately. Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all warning signs that require prompt attention.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to prevent and detect health issues early on. Be sure to adhere to the recommended schedule of examinations and vaccinations.

Some common signs of emergencies in Silky Terriers include inability or straining to urinate, discolored urine, and cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes.

Here are some specific signs that require immediate medical attention:

Don't wait to see if your Silky Terrier's condition improves on its own – seek medical attention right away if you notice any of these signs.