Scottish Terrier Supplements

Scottish Terriers have a unique and serious health profile: they have the highest rate of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder of any dog breed — approximately 20 times the rate of the general dog population. They are also significantly allergy-prone and have elevated rates of von Willebrand disease (vWD), a bleeding disorder that affects which supplements are safe. Scotties require more careful, informed supplementation than most breeds.

Primary health vulnerabilities in Scottish Terriers

• Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) — bladder cancer: The most critical health concern in Scotties. TCC is associated with lawn herbicide exposure (particularly 2,4-D) and has a strong genetic component. While supplements cannot prevent TCC, avoiding known carcinogenic exposures and supporting immune function is part of proactive Scottie care.
• Allergic skin disease: Environmental atopy causing paw licking, belly redness, and skin infections is common in Scottish Terriers. Their wiry coat masks skin inflammation.
• Von Willebrand disease (vWD) type 3: Scotties have elevated vWD rates. vWD type 3 is severe — dogs may bleed excessively from minor trauma or surgery. Avoid high-dose omega-3 (which has mild antiplatelet effects) in vWD-affected dogs without veterinary guidance. Test your Scottie for vWD before supplementation at therapeutic doses.

Scottie supplement stack — with vWD awareness

• Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) — with vWD caution: For non-vWD Scotties: ~400–600mg EPA+DHA daily (15–22 lb range). In vWD-positive dogs, discuss therapeutic-dose omega-3 with your veterinarian given mild antiplatelet effects.
• Quercetin + bromelain: Allergy immune support — small-breed doses. Bromelain has some fibrinolytic activity; use standard doses only in vWD dogs.
• Probiotics: Gut-immune calibration. Supports immune function in a breed with elevated cancer risk.