Can anyone give me more detail about why small white dogs get skin allergies and diseases?
Thursday, March 18th, 2010 at
9:30 am
I am interested in buying a westie but i keep hearing about skin problems that cost a lot of money to take care of. Can anyone explain to me how they get this and how to possibly prevent it because i can’t afford to pay for these types of problems.
Tagged with: About • Allergies • Anyone • detail • diseases • Dogs • Give • More • Skin • Small • White
Filed under: Skin Allergies in Dogs
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dogs from reputable breeders do NOT have these issues..
educate yourself
The most important thing is to do your research before adopting any type of dog, especially if you are a first time owner. Dogs that are white or mostly white are usually prone to skin issues, the cause is not really known, maybe it’s because of the pigment, maybe there is something in their gene that causes the white coloring and skin problems. I am sure not all white colored dogs have issues, but you do have to be extra careful of sunburn too. Good food with low allergens will help, as well as a good soothing shampoo, but the truth is you won’t know how severe the allergies are until adult hood. You can try and adopt from rescue or shelter and se if any available wesites have already been cleared of these issues, but no matter what breed you get it will cost some $$$$$$$ to take care of them and treat them for whatever illness arises.
Sadly, Westies are not the only dogs with allergies these days. If you buy or rescue a westie you are going to be a happy and proud parent. I love westies, and currently own one. To prevent your westie from ever encountering allergies you should stay away from foods with grains and chicken and beef and pork. I suggest feeding your westie from the moment you get him/her Natural Balance Sweet Potato and fish all stages dog food, and the snacks of this brand. Orijen 6 fish is good too I have read, but I have no personal experience with this brand. You should never over bath a westie or use human shampoo. I suggest earth bath with oatmeal. Vet care is important for all dogs, and if you can not afford the up keep of a dog’s health, I respectfully ask that you reconsider a pet. A lot of westies have sensitive tummies and food allergies. So, it is important to seek out the higher end brands with one carb source and one protien source.