Recognizing and Managing Common Health Issues in Biewer Terriers
If you own a Biewer Terrier (also called Biewer Yorkshire Terrier), you may wonder what health problems to watch for. While this breed is generally robust, it has some predispositions you should know. The most common issues include patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), dental disease, and allergies. Early detection and proactive care can make a big difference. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation, or a slipped kneecap, is one of the most frequent orthopedic problems in small breeds like the Biewer Terrier. The kneecap pops out of its groove, causing pain and a skipping gait.
What to watch for: Your dog may suddenly lift a hind leg while running, then resume normal walking. Some dogs have a permanent limp or tenderness when touched. Owners often describe a “popping” sensation.
Prevention and management: Keep your Biewer at a healthy weight, as obesity worsens joint issues. Avoid excessive jumping off furniture; use pet stairs. Mild cases may only require joint supplements and physical therapy. For persistent luxation, surgery is often successful. Your vet can grade the severity (1 to 4) and recommend the best approach.
Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt)
This is a congenital condition where a blood vessel bypasses the liver, preventing proper waste filtration. Toxins build up, affecting the nervous system. Biewer Terriers are among the breeds with higher risk.
What to watch for: Signs often appear before 2 years old: poor growth, lethargy, vomiting, excessive drooling, circling, head pressing, or seizures. After eating, some dogs have temporary confusion or aimless wandering. These symptoms may come and go.
Diagnosis and treatment: A simple bile acid test can screen for a shunt. If positive, your vet may recommend ultrasound or a nuclear scan. Milder cases can be managed with a low-protein diet, antibiotics, and lactulose. Severe shunts require surgical closure, which has a high success rate.
Dental Disease
Small mouths mean crowded teeth, leading to tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth loss. Biewer Terriers often have retained baby teeth, worsening crowding.
What to watch for: Bad breath, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, loose teeth, pawing at the mouth. Plaque can also cause heart and kidney problems if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
Prevention: Brush your Biewer’s teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste. Provide dental chews and toys. Schedule professional cleanings under anesthesia as recommended by your vet, usually annually. Check for retained deciduous teeth; if present, your vet should extract them to prevent overcrowding.
Allergies
Biewer Terriers can suffer from environmental (pollen, dust mites) or food allergies. Allergies often manifest as itchy skin, ear infections, or digestive issues.
What to watch for: Excessive scratching, licking paws, red inflamed skin, hot spots, chronic ear infections, or recurrent diarrhea. Seasonal symptoms suggest environmental allergens; year-round problems may indicate food sensitivities.
Management: For environmental allergies, regular bathing with hypoallergenic shampoo and wiping paws after walks help. Your vet may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, or allergy immunotherapy. For food allergies, try a novel protein or hydrolyzed diet for 8-12 weeks under veterinary guidance. Avoid frequent diet changes; stick to a consistent, high-quality food.
Other Less Common Issues
- Hypoglycemia: Especially in puppies if they go too long without food. Signs include weakness, trembling, and collapse. Prevent with small, frequent meals.
- Collapsing Trachea: A honking cough, especially when excited or pulling on leash. Use a harness instead of a collar. Weight management and cough suppressants can help.
- Eye Problems: Cataracts and dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) occur occasionally. Watch for cloudiness or discharge.
Final Advice
Biewer Terriers are wonderful companions, and knowing their health risks helps you be proactive. Regular vet checkups twice a year, including dental exams and bloodwork, are key. Keep a journal of any unusual symptoms and share them with your vet. With proper care, your Biewer can enjoy a long, healthy life.
Key Takeaway
Stay vigilant for signs of patellar luxation, liver shunt, dental disease, and allergies, and schedule regular vet checkups to catch these issues early.