The most common diseases of the Black Russian Terrier

Hyperuricosuria (HUU)

Hyperuricosuria (HUU) is a disease found in the black terrier breed. It is a very dangerous and deadly disease. Unfortunately, testing for it is not compulsory, which is why there are still sick dogs, but the available genetic tests make it possible to completely eliminate the risk of Hyperuricosuria disease in the Russian black terrier. A responsible breeder should choose HUU-free parents for breeding, or one HUU-free parent and the other a carrier. In this case, half of the children will be HUU free and half will be HUU carriers, but none of the children will be affected by HUU.

Symptoms of Hyperuricosuria

The most common symptom of hyperuricosuria in black Russian terriers is kidney failure. This can lead to a number of other serious health complications, including urinary tract infections, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. Symptoms of kidney failure may include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. If your black Russian terrier is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of Hyperuricosuria

While the exact causes of hyperuricosuria in black Russian terriers are not known, there is evidence that it may be a genetic condition. This means that it is passed down from parent to puppy and cannot be prevented. If you are considering adopting a black Russian terrier, be sure to ask the breeder about their testing methods to ensure that the parents are not carriers of the condition. There may also be environmental factors involved, such as diet or toxin exposure.

Treatment of Hyperuricosuria 

There is no cure for hyperuricosuria, but it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. The primary treatment for hyperuricosuria in black Russian terriers involves managing symptoms with medications and making changes to your dog's diet and daily routine. This may involve working closely with a veterinarian to create the best possible care plan for your dog. It's also important to provide plenty of love and support to your dog, as they may feel scared or overwhelmed at times. With the right support, black Russian terriers can continue to live happy and healthy lives despite this condition.

Hyperuricosuria - conclusion

Hyperuricosuria is a condition that affects black Russian terriers, causing severe symptoms such as kidney failure, urinary tract infections, and other serious health complications. While there is no cure for hyperuricosuria, it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes to help support the dog's overall health and well-being. If you are living with a black Russian terrier who has been diagnosed with hyperuricosuria, it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to create an individualized treatment plan that will help manage their condition effectively. With proper care and support, your black Russian terrier can live a happy and healthy life despite their diagnosis of hyperuricosuria.

Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy (JLPP)

What is JLPP?

Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy (JLPP), a condition that affects black Russian terriers is a progressive disease that causes paralysis of the larynx, problems with movement and sensation in the limbs, and difficulty breathing. Affected dogs typically show signs at a young age. Although there is no cure for JLPP, treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms and affected dogs can enjoy a good quality of life with proper care.

Symptoms of JLPP

The symptoms of JLPP can vary in severity, but affected dogs typically show signs at a young age. The most common symptom of JLPP is paralysis of the larynx, which can lead to difficulty breathing. Additionally, affected dogs may have problems with movement and sensation in the limbs. JLPP is a progressive disease, so the symptoms may worsen over time.

Treatment options for JLPP

There is no cure for JLPP, but treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms. Treatment options may include medical management, physical therapy, and/or surgery. Medical management may involve the use of drugs to help control the symptoms of JLPP. Physical therapy can help improve mobility and sensation in the limbs. Surgery may be an option for some dogs with JLPP, but it is not always successful.

How to ensure a good quality of life for a black Russian terrier suffering from JLPP.

If your black Russian terrier has been diagnosed with JLPP, it is important to work with your veterinarian to create an appropriate action plan. The goal of treatment is to help your dog manage the symptoms of JLPP and maintain a good quality of life. With the right care, affected dogs can enjoy life despite the challenges of JLPP.

Bloat - gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV)

What is bloat in dogs?

Gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV) is the most dire health emergency that dogs can experience. To save a victim's life, every minute matters, so all dog owners should know the signs of bloat in dogs. GDV, commonly referred to as bloat, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with air and twists. This can cause severe pain, distress, and potentially death if left untreated. Bloat can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, so it is crucial to get treatment as soon as possible.

There are several things that can contribute to bloat, including:

• eating too fast,
• drinking large amounts of water or eating immediately after exercise,
• eating a large meal,
• stressful situations.

What you can do to help prevent bloat in your black Russian terrier?

• feeding smaller meals more often throughout the day instead of one large meal,
• avoiding strenuous exercise immediately before or after eating,
• reducing stress as much as possible,
• adding an acidifier to your dog's water, such as apple cider vinegar.

Black Russian terrier owners should be aware of the signs of bloat, as this is a serious health emergency for dogs. If you suspect your dog is suffering from bloat, you must contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms to look out for include:

• distended abdomen,
• pacing or restlessness,
• drooling or panting excessively,
• retching or dry heaving,
• attempting to vomit but nothing coming up,
• appearing anxious or uncomfortable,
• lethargy or weakness,
• collapse.

Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial, as bloat can progress rapidly and become life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to seek veterinary help as soon as possible if you think your black Russian terrier may be suffering from bloat.

Bloat - summary

Black Russian terriers are susceptible to a condition called bloat, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with air and twists, and can cause severe pain and distress. If you think your black Russian terrier may be suffering from bloat, please contact your veterinarian or local emergency clinic immediately. Early recognition of symptoms is crucial, as bloat can progress rapidly and become fatal. Black Russian terrier owners need to be aware of the signs of bloat and how to prevent it, as this is a serious health emergency for dogs. With prompt treatment, most dogs recover from bloat without any long-term effects. However, it is important to seek veterinary help as soon as possible if you think your dog may be suffering from this condition.

Ear infection

If your black Terrier is scratching his ears more than usual, it could be a sign of an ear infection. Ear infections are common in dogs, and can be caused by allergies, trauma to the ear, or even excessive ear wax build-up. If you suspect your black Russian terrier has an ear infection, take them to the vet for a check-up. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and prescribe antibiotics or medication to clear up the infection and provide relief from the itchiness and discomfort. With proper treatment, most ear infections can be cleared up quickly and without too much discomfort for your dog.

Home remedies for relieving your dog's itchiness:

In the meantime, here are a few things you can do at home to help relieve your dog's itchiness and discomfort.

• Try massaging their ears with a little bit of coconut oil. This will help to soothe the irritation and keep their skin moisturized.

• Apply a warm compress to your dog's ears for 10 minutes several times a day. This will help soothe the itchiness and reduce inflammation.

• Apply a small amount of hypoallergenic lotion or cream to the inside of your dog's ears. This will help soothe any itchiness and redness.

• Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or mineral oil to the inside of the ear flap to lubricate dry skin. You can also try using a witch hazel solution or apple cider vinegar diluted with water as an ear rinse. Just be sure not to use anything too harsh or irritating, as this could make the itching worse.

• Clean their ears regularly. Ear infections can be caused by a build-up of wax or debris in the ear, so keeping the ears clean is important in preventing infections. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth dampened with water or a gentle cleanser to wipe around the inside of the ear flap.

• Give your dog antihistamines according to your vet's directions. This can help reduce itchiness and inflammation caused by allergies.

• Clean your dog's ears with a mild, alcohol-free ear cleaner according to the package directions. This will help remove any excess wax or debris that could be exacerbating the itchiness.

• Try an over-the-counter solution: There are many products available that can help to soothe itchiness and dryness in the ears. Look for an ear cleaner that contains witch hazel or apple cider vinegar, which can help to normalize pH levels and reduce inflammation.

• Try using a dog-specific ear cleanser to clean your dog's ears. This will help remove any build-up of wax or debris that could be causing irritation.

• If your dog is still scratching their ears excessively, you can try wrapping a bandage around the base of their ears. This will provide some temporary relief from the itching.

Conclusion

Ear infections are common in dogs, but with proper treatment, they can be cleared up quickly and without much discomfort to your dog.

Kennel Cough

What is Kennel Cough and how can I prevent my black Russian terrier from getting it? 

A kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can infect both dogs and cats. It is caused by a number of different viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, Adenovirus type 2, Parainfluenza virus, and Mycoplasma species. Kennel cough is characterized by a harsh, hacking cough that often sounds like a goose honking. It is most commonly seen in dogs that are housed in close quarters, such as kennels, shelters, and boarding facilities. Kennel cough is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected animal, or through the air by coughing or sneezing. The disease is usually mild and will resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, some animals may require treatment with antibiotics or cough suppressants. Prevention of kennel cough is through vaccination with the Bordetella vaccine. The vaccine is available as an intranasal spray or an injectable. It is recommended for all dogs that are housed in close quarters with other dogs, such as in kennels, shelters, or boarding facilities. Annual vaccination is recommended. 

Causes of Kennel Cough:

The cause of kennel cough is usually a Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria infection. However, the disease can also be caused by other viruses and bacteria, including Adenovirus type 2, Parainfluenza virus, and Mycoplasma species. Kennel cough is most commonly seen in dogs that are housed in close quarters, such as kennels, shelters, and boarding facilities. This is because the disease is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected animal, or through the air by coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough:

The symptoms of kennel cough include a harsh, hacking cough that often sounds like a goose honking. Other symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, and fever. Kennel cough is usually a mild disease and will resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, some animals may require treatment with antibiotics or cough suppressants.

Treatment of Kennel Cough:

The treatment of kennel cough depends on the severity of the disease. Most cases of kennel cough are mild and will resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, some animals may require treatment with antibiotics or cough suppressants.

Prevention of Kennel Cough:

The best way to prevent kennel cough is through vaccination with the Bordetella vaccine. The vaccine is available as an intranasal spray or an injectable. It is recommended for all dogs that are housed in close quarters with other dogs, such as in kennels, shelters, or boarding facilities. Annual vaccination is recommended.

Vomiting

Vomiting is one of the most common reasons that dogs are brought to the vet. That’s probably because there are hundreds of things that make dogs vomit. But that’s for your veterinarian to figure out; what you need to figure out is when your dog should see the vet and when you can try to handle your dog’s vomiting at home. Most dogs will look uncomfortable immediately before and after vomiting. But if your dog vomits once and then bounces back to her normal, cheerful, active self, you probably don’t have to worry (though you should continue to observe him). In contrast, if your dog seems depressed, lethargic, or in pain after vomiting, or if he vomits more than once, he needs to see the vet. Your vet will be able to determine the cause of the vomiting and provide the appropriate treatment.

If your black Russian terrier vomits, it is important to identify the vomit and take appropriate action.

Dog vomit can vary in color, depending on what was eaten. Dogs, especially puppies are prone to eating things they shouldn't, so be sure to check for any foreign objects in the vomit. If there is anything unusual in the vomit, or if your dog seems to be in pain, contact your veterinarian immediately.

If your dog's vomit is clear or yellow, it may just be bile and not a cause for concern. Bile is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It is used to help digest fats. If your dog has not eaten recently, the bile may be diluted and appear clear or yellow.

Green vomit may indicate that they have eaten something they shouldn't have. If the green vomit is accompanied by diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this can be a sign of poisoning.

If the vomit is brown or red, it may be blood. This could be a sign of internal bleeding and requires immediate veterinary attention. Black Russian Terriers can suffer from gastric ulcers, which can bleed. If you suspect your dog has an ulcer, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Dog vomit that is white or light-colored may indicate a problem with the pancreas. The pancreas produces enzymes that help to break down food. If these enzymes are not working properly, it can cause vomiting. This is a serious condition and requires immediate veterinary attention.

If your black terrier is vomiting more than once, seems to be in pain, or has any other symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian. They will be able to determine the cause of the vomiting and provide the appropriate treatment. Additionally, if your dog is dehydrated from vomiting, they may need to be hospitalized for IV fluids.

Conclusion

If your Black Russian Terrier vomits, it is important to identify the vomit and take appropriate action. In most cases, vomiting is not a serious problem and can be treated at home. However, if you are unsure about what is causing your dog's vomiting, it is always best to err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide you with peace of mind and ensure that your dog gets the treatment they need.