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Why is my healthy, active dog's fur so thin? Genetic or health?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 5 months old

My dog has a very thin fur everywhere, she eats healthy and she's very active so my question is Is it genetic or she has some serious problems?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 3rd, 2017

Considering that WHW terriers are seriously predisposed to skin issues (usually atopic dermatitis), I would think Lea's problem is due to a disease rather being genetic. Pictures of her coat, showing eventually any type of skin lesions, may help understanding that. It is hard at this stage to be more specific about it without pictures or more clinical informations. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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