How old does a Westie have to be to have skin problems?

How old does a Westie have to be to have skin problems?

Common in Westies, this skin malady causes severe and constant itching. Most affected dogs display symptoms between the age of 6 months and 3 years, so if you have an older Westie manifesting skin problems it’s probably not atopic dermatitis.

What kind of problems does a Westie have?

One of the most common problems that Westies face is their vulnerability to allergies. Though they are a tough and resilient breed, allergies are their main bane, causing symptoms such as itching, which leads to hair loss, skin irritation and sores.

Why does my Westie have open sores on his skin?

Skin Allergies. Another common skin problem that many Westies experience is skin allergies. Allergic reactions to food, particles in the air or other offending allergens can set off a reaction in your pet that causes his skin to develop open sores or other uncomfortable, painful symptoms.

How to tell if your Westie has atopic dermatitis?

The first sign of atopic dermatitis is seasonal itching around the ears and underneath the body, usually leading to sneezing, face rubbing and watery eyes. If it progresses, your Westie may experience hair loss, scabs, excoriations, and secondary bacterial skin infections, as well as darkened skin and ear infections.

What kind of skin problems do Westie people have?

Below is the most common type of Westie skin problem you may come across and need to treat over their lifetime. By far, the most common Westie allergy is dry skin, which can lead to the development of severe dandruff.

How old does a Westie have to be to have allergies?

While you may not think of a dog as having allergies, many Westies actually experience some sort of skin problem by the time they are three years old.

What should I do if my Westie has dry skin?

Treatment includes antihistamines and topical medications. Your dog may also be a candidate for immune therapy shots, which eventually cause desensitization to the allergy triggers. Dry skin is the top skin problem facing Westies.

Why does my Westie have greasy skin and hair?

Yes, even your Westie can suffer from greasy skin and hair and dandruff, known as canine seborrhea. The West Highland white terrier is one of the breeds prone to this condition, usually as a result of allergies, dietary deficiencies, parasites, or autoimmune or endocrine disorders.