Common Health Problems of Maltese

Maltese dogs are considered one of the very healthy dog breeds in the world. But as we know, the disease never comes with a warning. So we cannot just rule out the possibility of them getting sick. These are some common health problems you can see in Maltese dogs:

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common diseases in dogs. It occurs when the thyroid gland cannot produce enough or produces less thyroid hormone than the amount.

Some of the symptoms and effects of hypothyroidism in Maltese dogs are listed below:

• Dry skin and coat.
• Hair loss, particularly on the body and tail.
• Increased susceptibility to skin infections or diseases.
• Weight gain, despite being on a controlled diet.
• Lethargy or low energy levels.
• Intolerance to cold temperatures.
• Behavioural changes, such as increased fearfulness or aggression.
• Possible neurological abnormalities.

Remember, these symptoms vary among dog breeds, and it is also crucial to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and cure of hypothyroidism in Maltese dogs.

Eye Problems

Eye problems in Maltese dogs are rare, but that does not mean they don't have any. Some eye diseases are congenital or inherited. Since the Maltese dog breed price in India is affordable to dog-lover families, they like to pet the breed in the first place, so the environment can also be a reason for some eye diseases.

Congenital or inherited:

● Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

It can cause progressive retina degeneration; without good treatment, it can lead to eventual blindness.

● Congenital Cataracts:

Cataracts are some cloudy areas in the eye's lens. It reduces the visual power.

● Distichiasis:

The eyelashes grow abnormally on the inner surface of the eyelid.

● Entropion

happens when the eyelid rolls inward and leads to discomfort, redness in the eyes, and corneal ulcers.

Environmental eye diseases:

● Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

● Allergic conjunctivitis

● Irritant or Chemical Burns

Appropriate eye protection and regular cleaning can prevent these diseases.

Dental Issues

Dental diseases come from genetic issues which are pretty common in dogs. Maltese is a purebred dog so genetic diseases are natural. For example,

Dental Plaque and Tartar

Maltese dogs can also develop plaque on their teeth like us. It must be well treated otherwise over time the plaque can harden into tartar which can cause further dental problems.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is a genetic dental issue that can be cured with the help of braces for dog teeth; yes, you heard it right, your dog also can have braces.

Dental Abscesses

When a dog's tooth root or surrounding tissues are infected, it can lead to dental abscesses without early treatment. Dental Abscesses is a harrowing disease only liquid food is preferable in this disease.

Setting a daily dental care routine for your Maltese is essential to prevent other kinds of dental diseases. Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help maintain your Maltese dog's oral health.

Heart Diseases

Depending on their genetics, several heart diseases could be susceptible for Maltese, but they are widely suspected of a heart disease called Patent Ductus Arteriosus. A small vessel that carries blood between two parts of a dog's heart.

The vessel should close shortly after the dog's birth, but sometimes it doesn't. As a result, so much blood is carried to the lungs, fluid build-up and causes strain on the heart.

Vets approved home remedies for Maltese

In India, a major problem is fewer vets in rural areas, but that does not mean people in rural areas are not adopting dogs like Maltese. Since Maltese puppy prices in India are pocket-friendly, you can also find the breed in rural areas.

And for that reason, vet-approved home remedies are essential for primary treatment. Some of the remedies and their uses are mentioned here:

Turmeric

People use turmeric as a home remedy for humans and dogs for a very long period. These are some use of turmeric:

• Minor Cuts and wounds
• Anti-Inflammatory and pain relief
• Digestive problem solving
• Immune system support
• Allergy relief
• Cancer prevention
• Antimicrobial effect
• Oral Health

OcuLove

OcuLove is a natural dog eye vitamin supplement, it contains some herbal ingredients that have been used for centuries to prevent eye-related diseases. OcuLove is used to prevent:

• Vision problem
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Conjunctivitis
• Redness on the lens

Yucca

Yucca is a natural plant beneficial for dogs as a home remedy for various health conditions. Such as:

• Joint pain and Arthritis
• Digestive Health
• Skin irritation
• Odour Control