Scottish Terrier Health Issues & Care Guide
Comprehensive health guide covering common conditions, genetic testing, preventive care, and veterinary recommendations for Scottish Terriers.
Health Overview
Like all breeds, the Scottish Terrier has specific health considerations. Scotties have a dramatically elevated risk of bladder cancer compared to all other breeds, making routine urinalysis screening critically important..
Health testing of breeding dogs is the single most impactful step in reducing inherited conditions. Owners play their part through regular vet visits, quality nutrition, weight management, and dental care.
Common Health Conditions
| Condition | Frequency | Severity | Treatable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottie Cramp | Common | Moderate | Partial |
| Bladder Cancer | Common | High | Partial |
| Von Willebrand's Disease | Moderate | Moderate | Partial |
| Craniomandibular Osteopathy | Moderate | Moderate | Partial |
| Hypothyroidism | Moderate | Low | Yes |
Scottie Cramp
A hereditary movement disorder causing muscle stiffness and a goose-stepping gait during exercise or excitement.
Bladder Cancer
Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder occurs 18 times more frequently in Scotties than in other breeds.
Von Willebrand's Disease
Inherited bleeding disorder caused by deficient clotting factor, requiring testing before any surgical procedure.
Craniomandibular Osteopathy
Abnormal bone growth in the jaw affecting puppies between 4 and 8 months, causing difficulty eating.
Hypothyroidism
Underactive thyroid gland leading to weight gain, coat changes, and lethargy, managed with daily medication.
Recommended Health Tests
Health clearances to look for in Scottish Terrier breeding stock:
- OFA patellar luxation clearance
- Annual CERF/OFA eye examination
- Thyroid panel (OFA)
- DNA testing covering Scottie Cramp and Bladder Cancer
Never purchase a Scottish Terrier puppy without seeing health clearance documentation for both parents. Given the breed's terrier heritage and small size, thorough testing is the most reliable way to reduce genetic health risks.
Preventive Care Schedule
Preventive care timeline for Scottish Terriers (budget $377–877/year):
- Puppy phase (0-12 months): Core vaccines (8, 12, 16 weeks), deworming, flea/tick prevention, discuss spay/neuter timing for this small-sized breed
- Adult phase (1-10 years): Annual exam, vaccine boosters, heartworm/flea/tick prevention, grooming assessment of their hard, wiry outer coat with dense, soft undercoat coat
- Senior phase (10+ years): Biannual exams, senior blood panel, urinalysis, Scottie Cramp screening, dental monitoring
Life Stage Health Guide
Understanding your Scottish Terrier's life stages helps you provide appropriate care (lifespan 12–15 years):
- Puppy (0-12 months): Rapid growth toward 18–22 lbs, socialization critical, high energy, frequent feeding
- Adolescent (1-2 years): Testing boundaries, continued training important, reaching adult size of 10–11 inches
- Adult (2-10 years): Peak health, 60+ minutes daily exercise, annual screening for Scottie Cramp
- Senior (10+ years): Slower pace, may need dietary adjustments, biannual vet visits
Insurance Recommendation
Given the Scottish Terrier's predisposition to conditions like Scottie Cramp and Bladder Cancer, pet insurance is a worthwhile investment. Plans typically cost $38–$86 per month and can save thousands in unexpected veterinary bills. Compare plans from multiple providers and enroll early, before any pre-existing conditions develop.