WE HAVE A SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER WHO IS JUST WONDERFUL...

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Answer by poet5711
Submitted on 11/1/2004
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I was so glad to find this information because my scwt'smedical problems are getting bad. My vet has diagnosed Bailey's vomiting/diarrhea as food allergies, and I have tried the vegetarian food, potato and rabbit, etc., but nothing helps much. Have been considering taking him to A&M for further testing because all his symtoms relate to PLE/PLM. He, too, keeps the hair chewed from his front legs/feet and yesterday had some sort of delusional episode of darting everywhere and eating anything and everything that he could get in his mouth and I'm not talking about regular dog nosing around and picking up leaves, etc. He was aggressive at it. It's good to know that at least Bailey and I are not alone in out plight to feel better. Thanks.

Answer by Scott in Florida
Submitted on 8/20/2005
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Hello. your poor little guy. My wife and I are from San Diego, and we also have a Wheaten (now 2) but he had terrible skinirritation and we went to many vets, and we were told that she also had alergies to grass, wheat, trees, so on... we thought how strange it was. Anhyway, we moved to Florida and the smell from Muffet (our Wheaten) during our cross country trip smelled like a cross between Dorito's and bad feet, ever hotel we stoped at we would bath her. We rrived in Florida and went to a vet that was doing a chemical dip on her every 2 weeks for 3times... what did we know.... but I got a little smarter and went to a better vet that knew exactly what the problem was. He gave me a perscription to give her oraly 2 times a day for 2 weeks, it was a liquid, but the sores on her body were open and pussey, they looked terrible, we had her shaved down compleatly and with the perscription that he have her it compleatly went away, but 3 vets told us it was alergies.... load of crap.... it turned out to be mange. Yes, Wheatons are sensitive to wheat, we uswe a lamnb and rice mix, and Natures Recipe has a blend of food that is breed specific. Also you need to give your Wheaton 500 mg of Vitamin E it is the best for there coat. Also, to prevent flees and tics and bugs or misquitos, everyone needs to try "AVONS" Skin so Soft..... it works wonders... we found that out fro the big cat sanctuary here in Florida and also from many vets..... DO NOT USE ANYTHING NAMED HARTZ.... IT IS A BAD PRODUCT AND COULD CAUSE MAJOR DAMAGE AND SOME CASSES DEATH... NO FLEE COLLARS THEY DONT WORK. Use Frontline, and if you have any questions about your puppie or if I could be of furthe4r help, please ffel free to email me at scottread@tampabay.rr.com ... we are now breaders and we take great pride in everything with our children..... I hope this helps you in and anyone in the future. Regards The Read Family

Answer by Evelyn Dombkowski
Submitted on 2/17/2006
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My 8 year old wheaten (named Bonny, by the way!) is the same way and we have been dealing with this for years. You stated that you already have your dog on a special diet and are already doing the shots and medication. I would suggest that when your dog goes through extra itchy periods despite everything you're doing- it could be a little bit of infection from all the licking, scratching, etc. Infection will make them itch like mad, too. You'll need to find out if it's yeast infection or bacterial- then there's treatments for both (meds, creams, soaks, etc.). Try to keep your dog from getting at the affected area. Try an e-collar. Hope this helps. We know what you're going through.

Answer by Merry
Submitted on 3/16/2006
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Our two year old Wheaten has had two skin problems. One is that she chews on of her legs -- not severely, but regularly. We can tell because it turns pink. The other problem is something like a spo9tty rash on her muzzle and head. She kept opening the soars with the scratching. Our vet put her on Cephalexin antibiotic for a month, and we also used an ointment of steroids and antibiotics on the spots. (Her muzzle had to be shaved down to the skin to do this.) The original sites seem to have cleared up well, but new ones are developing since she finished a month on antibiotics. This makes me think that allergies may be the primary problem. Peaches eats a minimally processed frozen meat patty and dry food without sheat. BUT, she gets commercial treats and also dinner leftovers. After reading through this set of responses, I think we need to reconsider that program.

Answer by Merry
Submitted on 3/16/2006
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Our two year old Wheaten has had two skin problems. One is that she chews on of her legs -- not severely, but regularly. We can tell because it turns pink. The other problem is something like a spo9tty rash on her muzzle and head. She kept opening the soars with the scratching. Our vet put her on Cephalexin antibiotic for a month, and we also used an ointment of steroids and antibiotics on the spots. (Her muzzle had to be shaved down to the skin to do this.) The original sites seem to have cleared up well, but new ones are developing since she finished a month on antibiotics. This makes me think that allergies may be the primary problem. Peaches eats a minimally processed frozen meat patty and dry food without sheat. BUT, she gets commercial treats and also dinner leftovers. After reading through this set of responses, I think we need to reconsider that program.

Answer by Big Daddy
Submitted on 3/18/2006
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Our Wheaten developed bad skin problems at the age of 3. We finally found a solution with homemade dog food. We wash, chop, and boil 20lbs of potatoes (leave the skins on), drain and lightly mash it up. Add one large industrial size tin of tuna packed in water (1.33kg from Costco) and mix up. Do not drain the water off the tuna - dump everything in from the can. This will be enough for 6 to 7 days based on two meals per day and 3-4 cups per meal. We noticed that he does not drink as much due to the high water content from the canned tuna so do not be alarmed is water consumption goes down. We tried the dry fish and potato food from our vet but his skin acted up again and we had to go back to this homemade food. There have been no side effects except for clear skin, greatly increased energy, and a dog who can't get enough of this food.

Answer by Maureen
Submitted on 4/2/2006
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My Wheaton has tested allergic to inhaled: sweet vernal, timothy and most grasses, sage, many trees and weeds, HUMAN DANDER, as well as, consumables: wheat, rice turkey, chicken and lamb. She has been on a shot series every 21 days for over a year. The vet prescribed a diet of Eukanuba RFP Response. She is not given treats...tho does get small amount of cheese with her pills. She takes 1/2 (7mg) Temaril-P in the am, and 2 Benedryl allergy tabs at night. At her worst, we increase the dose of Temaril-P to as much as 2 (7mg) tablets...this does provide her relief but we are cautious about increasing the dosage and monitor her blood several times a year to ensure these drugs are not compromising her kidney and liver function. She chews on the pads of her feet when her allergies are at their worst and develops sores on her back and underbelly from time to time. She is at her worst when grasses/trees are blooming. She also reacts after grooming--and we are still searching for a workable shampoo. We have her groomed off-ours when there are no other dogs being groomed to limit inhaling other product scents and I avoid unnecessary use of sprays/use of scents in my home.

Answer by Lana
Submitted on 7/4/2006
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Yes, I have a wheaten as well and he is full of allergies. He eats only Wellness Whitefish and potato food, no treats at all.The omega 3's in the fish really help to strengthen the skin. He also gets allergy shots which I give to him. This combination has helped him greatly. No more paw licking and no more ear infections. Vinegar and Water 1:1 solution also helps to keep the ear infections down as the acidity makes it impossible for the bacteria to survive. As well Stanley wears little boots on his paws when we go for a walk and I try to give him a bath at least every two weeks with a plain dog shampoo. This was a challenge as Stan is allergic to oatmel...something that is often recommended for bathing dogs with allergies. He also had a low T4 thyroid reading due to vets over-using prednisone and takes a low dose thyroid pill. This boosts his immune system. All of these things have helped Stan to be healthier and happier dog and in the long run, I am sure I have saved in vet bills by going through with the allergy tests and shots although it was very expensive.Good luck

Answer by Michelle
Submitted on 11/15/2006
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I have a lovable soft coated wheaten terrier who is desperately in need of a loving home. He is a wonderful dog, but is high strung so I can not trust him around my 2 yo daughter. He also has separation anxiety so would do best with someone who is home mcuh of the time and someone who can properly excercise him on a daily basis. He would do best with someone who can be patient and loving with him as well as firm and alpha. He is very healthy and high energy. He is up to date on all his vaccines. He is 11 yrs old and I live in the Boston area. I love him and I hate to give him up, but I must put my daughter's safety first. He deserves a loving home. I hope you can help. Thank you. Cshelle99@aol.com

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Question by BONNIE
Submitted on 7/30/2003
Related FAQ: rec.pets.dogs: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers Breed-FAQ
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WE HAVE A SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER WHO IS JUST WONDERFUL BUT HAS VERY BAD ALLERGIES TO EVERYTHING FROM OTHER DOGS AND CATS TO TREES AND GRASS, ALSO TO ALOT OF FOODS RICE, SOY WHEAT ECT. HE IS ON A VENISON AND POTATO FOOD AND GETS ALLERGY SHOTS AND ALSO DEPO-MEDROL INJECTIONS WHEN HE IS AT HIS WORSE. HE HAS A BAD ODOR AND GETS SORES AND ITCHES ALOT I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE HAS ANY SUGESTIONS FOR HELPING HIM FEEL BETTER HE IS SUCH A PART OF OUR FAMILY WE LOVE HIM ALOT. BONNIE

Answer by paul and jenn riedman
Submitted on 12/2/2003
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bonnie: we have a two year old named Mack who has had allergy problems since day one. We live in Stony Brook N.Y. and have a wonderful vet who subscribes Dexamethasone .25 mg we give Mack one pill in the a.m and one at night and it gives him a lot of relief. He should stay away from wet leaves as much as possible and when i cut the grass i do not mulch i pick up as much as possible. When in a pinch we give him child benidril or the adult formula and cut the pill in half. good luck

Answer by pete
Submitted on 1/5/2004
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it may just be the shampoo you are using ... see if it flares up mostly after bathing your dog ...

Answer by Karen McMullen
Submitted on 3/24/2004
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This may be a little late, but after a couple of years of allergy tests, not only does my wheaten have all the typical out door allergies but through trial and error, and a lot of research, we found out that he is allergic to wheat. Nature's Recipe makes a really good line of wheatless dog food and treats. Also, because of his sometime skin problems, my vet will put him on antibiotics. Good Luck

Answer by Leisa
Submitted on 4/6/2004
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I also have a wheaten that has allergies. He is allergic to wheat.When he was eating dog food and treats with wheat in it he would chew on his paws and they would turn red from his saliva. No matter how often we bathed him. Some one at the pet store suggested feeding him a wheat free dog food. The dog food is a vegitarian dog food. The Venicen and other meats still caused an allergic reaction and since we stopped feeding him food and treats with wheat he has stopped chew on his paws. Wheat is usally the first ingrediant in dog food and treats. So maybe trying that may help.

Answer by Robin
Submitted on 4/12/2004
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Our Wheatie had a lot of allergies also to begin with and has a very sensitive stomach. We discovered Wellness Duck and Potato dog food and as long as he eats only this he is absolutely fine. Also, as he has got older (he is now five and a half) he does seem to be able to tolerate a few minor variations on this diet.

Answer by Tucker
Submitted on 5/17/2004
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Our wheaton was just diagnosed with allergies. His vet put him on a prescription science diet of fish and potatoes. He also suggested benedryl when his symptoms flair.

Answer by Midge
Submitted on 5/18/2004
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Hi, We have an 8 month old Wheaten who is awesome but about a month ago she began to chew the hair on her paws and front legs. We changed her food to one that does not contain wheat however the problem persists. She does not have any redness or any indication of a rash and we are stumped....

Answer by sixt3vette
Submitted on 6/1/2004
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This is for Midge, Unfortunately, your little guy might have regular allergies just like people, i.e., hay fever etc. I had my wheaten tested by an allergy specialist, the same tests they give to people. They made up a serum for him and he needed injections for about a year, which I had to give to him. Now with the wheat-less dog food and treats and occasional combination steroid/allergy medication from my vet, in the spring when the allergies act up, he is fine. All the testing and shot are pricey but it was worth it for us. If you need any other info, just write back and I�ll try to help. Good Luck!

Answer by russandtina
Submitted on 8/6/2004
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We have an 8 month old wheaten and she has the same problems listed here..chews on her paws, scratches, etc. We were baffled but I think the food may be it. The vet gave her a shot and prescribed some pills ($200 ouch!) and it seemed to work for a short while but I've begun to notice after she eats (which she doesn't seem to like to do) she starts going at it (licking and scratching). We're going to try and change her diet. Right now she's on Science Diet. I'll post later on how it goes.

Answer by jen
Submitted on 9/2/2004
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my wheatie is 2 1/2 and is also allergic to wheat. we did not know until 2 months ago. as a puppy she always had a sensitive stomach (so she was on science i/d). and about 6 months ago she started to develope dark,orange hair on her back. after the vet's blood tests came back normal she suggested that she go on a strict diet (no biscuits or chewies). she has eukanuba fish and potatoe for her meals and duck and potatoe for her snacks. it seems to be working wonderfully! her blonde hair is coming back and she doesn't have the upset belly.

Answer by BQ
Submitted on 10/21/2004
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My Wheaten is 3 yrs old. When Max was 1 he developed a rash on his belly that spread and lasted for one year. He was on heavy duty antibiotics , allergy shots and venison and potato. Nothing worked, until I stopped everything. I now make him turkey chop meat sweet potato's and kale and he is perfectly fine. I make him a meatloaf of this once a week and feed him twice a day. I truly believe we are what we eat.

Answer by Catherine
Submitted on 10/22/2004
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Wheaten Terriers should be fed a diet free of corn, wheat, soy, and any glutens. They should be brushed every day. In your case, the allergy shots could be causing more problems than its helping. If possible, see a second veterinarian and get an opinion. Good luck!

Answer by LindaStuart
Submitted on 10/22/2004
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Our wheaten is on the eukanuba fish and potato diet for allergies. He also bites his front arms on the top, but we found out that (for him) this is his way of showing/relieving frustration. He doesn't hurt the skin or pull out the fur. We have also added fish oil to his food when allergies seem to act up.

Answer by alison
Submitted on 1/19/2005
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We had an 8 yr old Wheaten - same story. We tried everything. Even immunosuppressants, Z/D diet.... he chewed on his paws until he bled, oozed from some part of his body all the time, lost most of his hair, scratched/chewed on himself 24 hrs a day.... We put him down this weekend. We are so devistated. The only time he got relief was on prednisone, which made him act insane. I wish I could help you. I wish I could have found a solution for our baby. He got a lot worse at 6 yrs old.

Answer by paddy
Submitted on 2/14/2005
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help I have a 3 yr old wonderful wheaten and he was just diagnosed as having addisons disease This came about because he reacted so strongly to a hot spot on his leg (stopped eating became lethargic ) This happened once before and my vet became suspicious. does any one know anything about this supposedly it is common in wheatens. she wants to give him prednisone every day I'm a little concerned this will have side effects.

Answer by Max
Submitted on 5/11/2005
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Max is a Wheaten who also had all of the above. I tried the allergy shots and every food on the market. I cook for him now 4-5 lbs of turkey chop meat.,7 med size sweet potatoes and one large bag of frozen kale . I put it all in one pot and it last for one week. I feed him twice a day. He gets a bath with head and shoulders every 10 days and I keep his coat short. Unfortunately he still has a problem with his itchy and leaky eyes.

Answer by Chelsea
Submitted on 5/28/2005
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question. my dog is about 2 years old, and does have a wheat allergy. He is also allergic to some kinds of non wheat dog food. he is allergic to duck/venison/lamb also. Currently he is always chewing on his front paws and legs. any suggestions?

Answer by Jessica
Submitted on 6/3/2005
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I don't have a Wheaten, but I do have a Golden Retriever with the same problem and it ended up being yeast. He has the food allergies which cause him to have the itchy flakey skin, but on top of that he had a yeast problem which caused the odor. I give him Fish Oil, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamin E, plus he gets bathed in a tar and sulfur shampoo. No more smells!

Answer by Paul & Jenn Riedman
Submitted on 6/13/2005
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Mack still has allergies-but we have learned a great deal. First keep the hair short-that enables you to get a comb through to pick up the dry skin that makes the itching worse. Second oatmeal based shampoos are relieving- we also occasionally use a medicated shampoo called Malaseb (available through vet or Drs Foster and Smith catalogue). Mackie is itchy but at least we have not seen him chewing at his paws or his elbow- his most sensitive area. We also try to give him Wheat free treats but we stick to normal food for now (Science diet and Beneful for a treat once in awhile).

Answer by crluther
Submitted on 8/14/2005
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What made the biggest difference in my wheaten's scratching and itching was getting him off of dry food and on to canned. We saw almost immdiate results. No more ear infections or "red" hair from all the chewing. We don't give any wheat products. He also receives an allergy shot once a week. He was tested and was positive for dust mites and food storage mites (found in dry food). It's a simply and inexpensive thing for you to try and might yeild amazing results. Good luck!

Answer by frl
Submitted on 8/15/2005
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Friend,soft wheatens eat dried food, meat, vegatables and clean water.

Answer by nat
Submitted on 10/2/2005
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put him to sleep for gosh sake!

Answer by nancy
Submitted on 10/9/2005
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Can someone tell me some foods for my 21/2 yr old wheaten? His stomache problems have subsided however, his skin allergies are worse than ever. Also, where does the horrific odor come from?

Answer by Max
Submitted on 10/28/2005
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I have a 4 yr old wheaten named Max who also has skin allergies. I home cooked for him for 3 years and since he still had allergies I now feed him science diet lamb and rice small bits. He still has the allergies. I have tried everything and am at my wits end. Please somebody give me a miraculous cure !

Answer by Jane
Submitted on 12/28/2005
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My Brother has a wonderful Wheaten but suffers from Allergies. We changed her to the BARF diet and it helped somewhat. I live in MP and work in Stony brook. Could I get the name of the Vet in SB? Thank you

Answer by Andy
Submitted on 1/19/2006
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We are having a devil of a time housetraining our Wheaton Terrier. She goes in her crate at 11:30 p.m. after her last walk but if I do not get to her by 6:30 a.m. she will go in her crate. Often she poops in her crate sometime during the night. During the day she almost never makes is more than 2 hours and will make an awful mess in her crate. She is exercised and walked frequently.

Answer by Laura
Submitted on 3/1/2006
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Our wheaton Gus has really bad allergies as well. We have tried eliminating certain foods and have had success when we cut the dairy products. Hope thats helps.

Answer by Hollywood99
Submitted on 3/14/2006
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nick name/soninfo

Answer by glantz15
Submitted on 3/17/2006
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Our 6 year old wheaten has really bad allergies and cronic tonsil problems. He allergic to rice, wheat, soy, molds, trees, leaves chicken, turkey etc. We have him on special hard and soft food from Pinnicle and it has made a huge difference with the bowel problems. Now if we could only figure out the problem with the tonsils.

Answer by Margo
Submitted on 4/8/2006
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I am having the same problems with my wheaten. she reacts with G.I. problems and scratching and sometimes feet biting. I think it may be related to wet leaves or mold and she also has to stay away from wheat. I have heard of a very expensive vet who is wholistic, costly ($600.00 to walk in the door), but very successful. Has anyone been to this person(somewhere in New York) ? I really would like to avoid steroid therapy if at all possible.

Answer by irene
Submitted on 7/9/2006
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thank you to everyone who had good suggestions for wheaten skin problems. my dog thanks you too.

Answer by Erin
Submitted on 8/7/2006
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Hello, My name is Erin and I have created a wonderful site about wheaten terriers!! Please check it out!! go 2: waggishwheatens.wordpress.com Thanks!!

Answer by Wheatiesmom
Submitted on 9/19/2006
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WE recently adopted an adorable Wheaten from the Animal Rescue. He was listed as having allergies to wheat, I called our vet immediately and he has suggested a duck and potato mix dog food. As I see this listed here several times, I feel confident this may help our new family member. Thank you for the great tips. I am the mom of Newfoundlands, and having a Wheaten is a new experience for us. He is wonderful boy and a great addition to the family!

Answer by Bobbie
Submitted on 10/31/2006
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Quigley has tons of energy and runs like mad in the back yard. He occasionally gets blisters on his belly and has a circular bald spot the size of a quarter on his side. He pulls at the hair around his feet. I guess we should try wheat-free food and benadryl. His skin is very pink is that normal? His appetite has always been poor. He will skip a day and not eat at all. The next day he may eat a cup of Iams. I am thinking of cooking lamb and rice with veggies, but one of you said yours had a rice allergy.