Scottish Terriers in New Zealand are fortunate to have relatively few serious health or genetic problems, and responsible breeders work hard to minimize these problems in their breeding stock. Nevertheless, it is good to be aware of the following genetic disorders reported in Scotties and to ask your breeder if you have any questions or concerns.
Common Hereditary Disorders
VonWillebrand’s Disease (vWD): vWD is the name given to a group of similar inherited bleeding disorders that occur in humans, pigs, dog and rabbits. This serious blood clotting disorder was previously recognized in the Scottie but today is not often seen thanks to the widespread use of a simple DNA test to identify the mutation. Affected dogs are removed from the breeding program, and the carrier dogs are monitored closely and eventually retired. This strategy has resulted in the near elimination of the disease in litters today. We recommend when looking for a Scottie pup, to always ask the breeder for evidence that parents are free of the vWD mutation.
Scottie Cramp: This is not actually a muscle “cramping” disorder, nor is it a seizure. Cramp is a genetic dysfunction of the chemical neurotransmitter made by the nerves that control the dog’s muscles. Affected Scottish Terriers are normal at rest and exhibit normal ability to walk until they become stressed. After several minutes of strenuous activity and/or excitement, an affected dog may arch its back, walk stiffly, become immobilized, and may even roll to its side. A short while after the stimulation abates, the dog will recover and appear completely normal. Scottie Cramp is a non-painful, episodic disorder, not constantly present; nor does it compromise the dog’s quality or length of life. Many affected dogs learn to manage the problem on their own and will stop running before symptoms appear. Treatment is considered unnecessary in nearly all cases however owners can consult their vet. Still the incidences of Scottie Cramp has dramatically decreased in recent years. Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO): Thankfully rare in New Zealand Scottish Terriers, CMO is a genetic disease of the bones of the jaw, typically seen in the 4-7-month-old pup. The disorder causes over-growth and painful swelling in the lower jaw. The puppy may be feverish, reluctant to open the mouth or to eat. A diagnosis of CMO is confirmed by a veterinarian using x-ray. This disorder is transient and can be successfully treated with appropriate medication, mild cases respond to aspirin. Acute CMO cases may require steroids. CMO is self-limiting so an affected Scottie will seldom require long-term medication. As the dog matures, the abnormal bony growth abates and is often undetectable in the adult dog.
Cushing's Syndrome: This disorder is a collection of symptoms caused by an excess of a hormone called cortisol. There are 3 main causes of this syndrome. About 8 percent of cases are caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland. These tumors are usually benign. Another 10 percent are caused by a tumor on the adrenal gland. The remaining cases are usually induced by veterinarians who over prescribe corticosteroids to treat skin conditions. This syndrome is very hard to diagnose, there are a number of tests that have to be done. If your Scottish Terriers has the following symptoms, he is likely to have Cushing's Syndrome. This syndrome is often associated with aging.
The dog is drinking copious amounts of water and urinating frequently
The dog has an elevated alkaline phosphatase level
The dog develops a very oily coat even after just being bathed.
Cancer: Scottish Terriers like all dogs can develop cancer. The most frequent cancer diagnosed in Scotties is lymph sarcoma, followed by bladder and other cancers of the lower urinary tract, malignant melanoma and gastric carcinoma. Early detection is still the most beneficial factor in curing those forms of cancer that will respond to treatment.