1. Skin Allergies: West Highland Terriers are prone to allergies, which can cause a variety of skin problems, including oily, spotty rashes. Common allergens for dogs include certain foods, environmental allergens (such as pollen, dust, or mold), and flea bites.
2. Dermatitis: This is a general term used to describe skin inflammation. Various types of dermatitis can affect dogs, each with its own specific causes. Some common types of dermatitis that may cause oily, spotty rashes include atopic dermatitis (an allergic skin condition) and contact dermatitis (caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen).
3. Seborrhea: Seborrhea is a skin condition characterized by an overproduction of sebum, the oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. This can result in oily skin, flaky skin, and potentially a spotty rash.
4. Bacterial or Fungal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria or fungi can lead to oily, spotty rashes on the skin. These infections can occur anywhere on the body but may be more common in certain areas, such as the back.
5. Mange: Mange is a skin condition caused by mites that live on the skin's surface. Different types of mange can affect dogs, and some may cause oily, spotty rashes.
6. Hormonal Imbalances: Certain hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism, can lead to changes in the skin's appearance, including an oily, spotty rash.
If your West Highland terrier develops an oily spotty rash, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. The veterinarian will be able to determine the underlying cause of the rash and recommend the appropriate course of action. Self-treating without proper diagnosis can be risky, as some skin conditions may be more severe or require specific medications.