Common Health Concerns Facing the Maltese Terrier
While there are not that many Maltese Terrier health concerns, they do have a few issues that they must deal with as a breed. Proper Maltese Terrier care involves knowing the signs, symptoms, and treatments for the most common Maltese Terrier health problems.
Slipped Stifle
One of the common Maltese Terrier health problems is an issue called “slipped stifle” this is the condition where the joint on the dog’s hind leg that beds will slip from time to time. The dog will limp when the slip occurs. Often the leg sets itself right without any intervention. If the problem is consistent enough and painful for the dog, surgery is usually recommended to rectify the problem.
Eye Infections
Eye infections are another problem faced by many Maltese Terriers. The hair around the eyes, just like the rest of the body, grows continuously. It needs to be trimmed in order to keep it out of the dog’s eyes. When the hair is not trimmed consistently, it can irritate the eye, leading to eye infections. Eye infections that go untreated can lead to blindness. Proper Maltese Terrier care mandates keeping the area around the eyes clean and free of hair.
Liver Shunts
Liver shunts are a disease that some Maltese Terriers are born with. It happens because the circulation of the puppy’s blood does not happen properly, and as a result, the liver does not receive the oxygen it needs directly after birth. This results in a liver that is not properly formed. A shunt that is present at birth does not dissolve, and prohibits the blood from flowing to the liver. This shunt can be removed successfully through surgery, but if it is not discovered and dealt with, it will lead to death.
Collapsed Trachea
Collapsed trachea is a Maltese Terrier health problem that involves the trachea, which is the part of the body that carries air from the nose to the lungs. With a collapsed trachea, the trachea is not its normal round shape, and air does not flow properly. A dog with this condition usually exhibits a chronic cough that seems to sound like the honking of a goose.
Collapsed trachea can be treated through medication. There are situations when medication does not work, and in those cases, surgery is necessary to repair the throat. Implants are placed in the throat to help it keep its shape.
Skin Problems
Maltese Terrier care involves checking their skin periodically for rashes. These dogs can have sensitive skin, and are particularly prone to allergies. Common allergens might include scented shampoos or grass. If you suspect your pet has an allergy, you can give him Benedryl to help with the itching, but talk to your veterinarian about the proper dosage. Keeping your dog away from the substance causing the condition is the best treatment, but that is not always possible, particularly if the culprit is your grass.
The best way to avoid any of these common health problems is through frequent vet visits for your dog. Learning how to choose a vet for your Maltese Terrier is crucial to having a happy, healthy pet for many years.
