Airedale Terriers are a relatively healthy breed with just a few health issues which they are susceptible to, with one of them being skin problems. Skin problems are not uncommon in many breeds of dogs and may be caused by a variety of reasons. The Airedale Terrier has been known to have skin problems and allergies from either a low or a high thyroid function. A qualified vet can run a thyroid panel of blood tests as well as a urinalysis to determine if there is a problem. When it is determined that the problem is caused by an ineffective thyroid, treatment is either giving the dog hormones or surgery to remove the thyroid.
If the Airedale Terrier has a simple case of an allergy, there are special shampoos that can be used for bathing the dog. It is highly recommended that your dog have his or her hair stripped instead of clipping while in treatment with the special shampoo. If the problem doesn't clear up or turns out to be more severe eczema, the dog should be seen by a veterinarian.
It is quite common for the Airedale Terrier to have some sort of skin problem, but finding the cause is often a matter of trial and error. Most owners will look at the dog's diet first in case of allergies. Some breeders add oil and kelp to the dog's food to prevent skin problems that appear to be itchy for the dog. There are also special food and dietary supplements available that serve two purposes. They help keep the skin healthy as well as giving the Airedale all the vitamins and nutrients it needs, especially if it is a puppy that is still growing. Many vets will recommend adjusting the amount of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid in the dog's diet if the dog suffers from dry skin.
There are many things the Airedale will come in contact with on a daily basis, whether it's in the house, hunting in the woods or playing in the back yard. Some of the flea treatments on the market are being linked with possibly contributing to dry skin and allergies for the dog. Many of the chemicals that are being used as a treatment for lawns are also unhealthy to the Airedale terrier's skin condition.
It is very common for Airedale Terriers - as well as other terriers - to develop itchy skin. There are many possible causes, so if in doubt, always start with the diet. Corn, wheat or soy are ingredients that are in many dog foods. These ingredients, especially corn, are infamous for contributing to allergies in dogs. These allergies can surface in the way of itchy skin, rashes, yeast infections and ear infections to name just a few. Dogs will usually do well on a diet consisting of lamb and rice for starters. If after, switching to a different dog food, the skin problem is still there, seek the help of a vet.
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