Are Maltese prone to stomach problems

12 Common Health Problems in Maltese Dogs: Vet-Reviewed Illnesses & Diseases

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Maltese dogs are adorable little furballs who have been favored by royalty and regular folk alike over the years. They are known to have originated from the island of Malta in Italy, hence their name. Maltese dogs are small, energetic, and playful dogs that are considered hypoallergenic, making them a preferred dog breed for owners with allergies.

Maltese dogs are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of more than 12 years. However, just like most dogs, Maltese can be at risk for a variety of health complications. Here, we discuss 12 common health problems that you must watch out for with your Maltese!

The 12 Common Health Problems in Maltese Dogs

1. Obesity

Like all dogs, Maltese can be at risk for obesity. The Maltese is a small breed, meaning they need less time for exercise and a smaller amount of food throughout the day. Because of this, it is easy to get carried away and overfeed your Maltese. Obesity can put your dog at risk for a variety of health complications in the long run, such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and even muscular and skeletal problems.

Health complications, including obesity, can be prevented with exercise in combination with a healthy and balanced diet. Maltese dogs require about 2030 minutes of exercise a daybe it short walks or even simple physical activity through play at home!

2. Dental Issues

Most small dog breeds are susceptible to dental issues, and the Maltese is no exception. Tartar and plaque can easily build-up on their teeth if their mouth is not kept clean. Tooth decay and bacterial build-up can even find its way into the blood stream, causing a variety of other infections. Some Maltese dogs can even lose their teeth at an early age!

Proper dental hygiene is recommended. High-quality teeth biscuits can be used to keep their teeth and gums clean and healthy, and can even serve as a treat! Teeth cleaning can also be performed during their routine veterinary check-ups.

3. Canine Asthma

Maltese dogs can be at risk for a variety of respiratory issues that cause difficulty breathing, with the most common cause being canine asthma. Canine Asthma is also known as allergic bronchitis, which is the constriction of the airway due to inflammation. This is triggered by allergens in the environment and is more common among smaller dogs than larger dogs. If your Maltese has asthma, you may observe them wheezing, coughing, and experiencing laborious breathing.

Asthma is not known to be fatal if it is detected and proper medication prescribed as soon as symptoms are shown. If you observe your Maltese showing signs of difficulty breathing, consult with your veterinarian immediately.

4. Collapsed Trachea

Collapsed trachea is a common issue among toy dog breeds caused by weak or damaged tracheal rings, resulting in collapse. The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, consists of rings of cartilage that hold the pipe open for air to pass. If these rings of cartilage are damaged or weak, they will collapse and result in dry coughs and difficulty breathing.

This condition is known to be genetic or idiopathic and can be treated through medication and preventive care. Like asthma, it is important to consult with your veterinarian immediately after observing signs of breathing difficulties.

5. Aberrant Cilia

Aberrant Cilia, to put in simple terms, is the abnormal growth of eyelashes. If growth of these eyelashes is left unchecked, they can eventually grow into your Malteses eye and potentially cause pain and corneal ulcers. This can potentially damage their eyesight and must be treated immediately to prevent any further damage.

Treatment for the abnormal growth of the eyelash would include eradicating the faulty eyelashes at the level of the follicle through a process similar to electrolysis. Anti-inflammatory and pain medication can be prescribed for corneal ulcers to ease your Malteses discomfort while the abrasion heals.

6. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Another eye problem that Maltese dogs can experience is a degenerative eye condition called, progressive retinal atrophy. This is an inherited or genetic condition that involves the progressive deterioration of the retina, which contains the eyes photoreceptors, eventually leading to blindness. Progressive retinal atrophy is considered an autosomal recessive genetic condition, which means the recessive gene can be inherited from both parents.

To date, there is currently no gold standard of treatment for this condition. Although not proven effective, veterinarians can prescribe vitamins and supplements to help prevent the progression of this disease upon diagnosis. Proper exercise and a healthy diet is also recommended.

7. Heart Failure

Poor diet, lack of exercise, and old age can lead to congestive heart disease in Maltese dogs. Congestive heart disease can lead to failure when blood circulation is halted due to the difficulty of the heart to pump blood to the body.

Healthy diet and exercise can prevent congestive heart failure in your Maltese, so be sure to maintain a health lifestyle to ensure a healthy heart!

8. White Dog Shaker Syndrome

White Dog Shaker Syndrome is a neurological health condition almost exclusively among white dogs, including the Maltese. It is characterized by tremors and uncontrollable shaking of the dogs body. It is thought to be a mild central nervous system disease and is also considered as hereditary and autoimmune, although not yet established.

Treatment for White Dog Shaker Syndrome involves corticosteroids to reduce the inflammatory response of the body causing the tremors.

9. Colitis

Colitis is quite common among Maltese, but is not considered a cause for alarm. Colitis is the inflammation of the large intestine, which can cause diarrhea or even dark stool with blood. This can be treated by increasing their fiber intake and a healthy diet.

Consultation with a veterinarian is recommended for proper diagnosis and further intervention if the colitis is caused by an underlying condition.

10. Liver Shunts

Portosystemic shunts, more commonly known as liver shunts, is a congenital disease that affects the flow of blood into the liver. These shunts are characterized by abnormal connections of blood vessels, which disallows blood to enter the liver for filtration of metabolic wastes.

Symptoms of liver shunts can include poor growth, poor appetite, weight loss, dehydration, and even vomiting and diarrhea. More severe cases of liver shunts can show disorientation and seizures. If you suspect any symptoms, consultation to your veterinarian is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.

11. Bladder Stones

Maltese dogs are also at risk for bladder stones, which are the formations of crystal-like minerals in the urinary bladder. These stones can range from singular to multiple and can also vary in size. Clinical signs can include difficulty urinatingand for more severe cases, blood during urination.

Upon consultation, your veterinarian can recommend surgical removal, urohydropropulsion, and also dietary dissolution depending on the severity of the case. Proper hydration and a healthy diet are recommended to prevent bladder stone build-up.

12. Luxating Patella

Like other dog breeds, like the Chihuahua and the Pomeranian, the Maltese is predisposed to luxating patella. Luxating patella is a condition on a dogs knee characterized by malformation of the knee bones, causing the kneecap to slip and out of place.

Mild cases of luxating patella can simply slide back in place, but more severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Final Thoughts

The Maltese, while a generally healthy breed, are predisposed and at risk for a variety of health conditions. As owners of these adorable pups, it is important to be aware and to take precautions should your Maltese develop any of the above conditions. Proper exercise, hydration, a healthy and balanced diet, and routine check-ups are important to ensure your Maltese stays healthy and happy!

Featured Image Credit: Creativa Images, Shutterstock

Do Shih Tzu Get Stomach Problems?

Do Shih Tzu Get Stomach Problems?

BY MOLLY | EVERYTHINGSHIHTZU.COM

Stomach issues can befall any dog breed and Shih Tzu are no exception; however, Shih Tzu are not overly susceptible to stomach problems as are some other types of dogs.

In fact, Shih Tzu, although there are several health conditions that they are prone to, tend to be pretty sturdy pups.

When it comes to the digestive system, even if there arent issues that are inherent in the breed, your canine companion can still experience an upset stomach and other factors, so its worth knowing the possibilities.

Shih Tzu are not known for having stomach problems, but that doesnt mean they cant get an upset tummy or experience intestinal discomfort.

Your dog might eat something that doesnt agree with her or perhaps she has an allergy to a certain food that causes intestinal issues.

Your Shih Tzu can also pick up a virus, or maybe shes a fast eater, which can also have unpleasant digestive results.

Your best line of defense against potential stomach problems is to know about different conditions that can affect your pups tummy and what you should do about them.

Of course, this means knowing your pup and watching her for any signs of unusual behavior that can clue you into something amiss.

First things first, what are some things that can tip you off to Shih Tzu stomach problems?

Signs of Stomach Problems in Shih Tzu

If you notice something just isn't quite right about your pup, for example, shes acting strangely, or she seems more tired than usual, then the odds are good that something is bothering her.

If you notice your dog doing any of the following, then stomach issues might be to blame for her uncharacteristic behavior:

• Your pup has diarrhea
• Your pup is vomiting
• Your pup has the dry heaves
• Your pups stomach is making loud, gurgling noises
• Your pup is drooling excessively
• Your pup has gas or is bloated

What Are Some Common Stomach Issues in Dogs?

Your Shih Tzu can get stomach problems for a number of reasons and not all of them are due to a serious medical condition or underlying health problem.

For example, your pup might just have a simple stomach bug that will resolve in a day or two, or she may eat something that upsets her stomach. However, there are several causes for stomach issues that are more cause for concern and, in many cases, the sooner you address the problem, the easier you can handle it.

Heres a look at some of the more common dog stomach issues:

Your pup ate something she shouldnt have or didn't agree with her

You know the feeling, you eat a meal, and then suddenly, you just dont feel right. Sometimes, your pup experiences the same thing; she eats a piece of grass, or a piece of trash (dogs arent known for their sophisticated palates) and it makes her throw up or get a little woozy.

The major thing to pay attention to here is, what did your pup eat?

You need to make sure that the offending item isnt poisonous for your pooch.

You switched to a new dog food

When you switch dog foods on your pup, you need to do it gradually so you can ease her stomach into the process.

Start by adding a little bit of the new food into her usual daily food. Next, slowly increase the amount of new food as you decrease the amount of old food over several days.

Your dog has a food allergy or intolerance

Sometimes, your dog might have a food allergy or intolerance that causes her to get an upset stomach when she eats certain things.

Your vet can help you determine if this might be the case and help you narrow down which foods your pooch may have an issue with, and then you can adjust your pups diet accordingly.

Your dog ate too fast

Sometimes your pup might eat faster than her stomach can handle. If your dog is a fast eater, consider getting a slow-feed bowl to help her eat at a safer speed.

Your pup has a stomach virus

Your dog can get a tummy bug just like you. If you suspect that this is the case, treat your pup with some at-home remedies (discussed below), but watch her closely for any signs that things are not improving. If her situation gets worse, call your vet

what should you do when your shih tzu has an upset stomach?

If you think your pup has an upset tummy because of something she ate or a little bug, let her fast for several hours and then feed her a small amount of food (keep to a bland diet) for a couple of days.

Make sure the food that you give to your pup is not seasoned or spicy.

Some good options for what to feed your pup if she has upset stomach are:

• Plain, white rice
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Skinless chicken breast
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Canned pumpkin (not the pie filling)

If your pup is having diarrhea or vomiting, then it is also important to make sure you are replenishing her fluids and electrolytes.

Offer her a 50/50 mix of cool water and unflavored Pedialyte, in small amounts at first, then as your pooch improves you can stick to plain water.

Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu to make sure her symptoms dont worsen; if things dont improve, bring her to your vet as soon as possible.

If you notice your pup is having some more serious complications, or you are unsure of why she is having problems, call your vet immediately as there could be an underlying issue at play, like a stomach ulcer or other medical situation.

Take your pooch to the doctor pronto if your dog exhibits any of the following:

• Extreme agitation or restlessness
• Cant even hold down water for more than 5 hours
• Bloated stomach
• Fever
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Throwing up for more than 8 hours
• Diarrhea for more than one day
• Dry Gums
• Lethargic behavior or collapse

Also, if your pup has diarrhea and vomiting at the same time, you need to act fast; at this point, a trip to the vet might be the only way to avoid dangerous dehydration.

Basically, your Shih Tzu can get stomach problems like any other breed, but she isnt more susceptible to them.

If you think your pup may have an upset stomach, watch her closely and think about her recent actions. If it is something she ate or a stomach bug, you can treat the problem at home with simple remedies and watch for signs of improvement.

If your dog still seems to be having trouble after a day or two days, or she gets worse, call your vet immediately.

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