QuestionQUESTION: I know blue and tans are prone to alopecia and skin problems, but is that a certainty for every blue and tan across the board? May some escape any problems? I also heard the blue and tans life expectancy is about half of any of the other colors, is that true?
ANSWER: I have fostered several blue and tans from a breeder and she got out of breeding them because of the coat issues. I have never ever seen a blue and tan without skin issues or without very thin hair and/or balding spots. I am not going to say it can never happen, but..... As far as life expectancy, I have never heard of anything like that and would not expect their coat issues to cause that. They are a dilute color and as such may have weaker genes, but I would not think it would shorten their life by half! So I do not think so, but I have never owned a blue and tan. Hope that helps.
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QUESTION: Do you know of any special ways to take care of the skin and coat? Shampoos, food, etc. Mostly to prolong onset of problem or when it has happened?
Thanks
AnswerI have been told there are some really good foods out there that will help - they are rather expensive but I feed expensive food to my doxies. Mine get an all natural, no corn, food - which is hard to find without really looking. Some have told me about a food called GoldSeal? I am not sure of the exact name. Don't bathe too often and make sure it is a mild shampoo such as oatmeal. I placed all my blue fosters and their owners love them dearly - the thin coat/ bald spots, etc. does not matter to them. A couple of them have sweaters for going out in the cold since their coat is so thin. Also, be sure to keep them protected from fleas - any itching may cause hair loss and it is harder for them to grow it back! Good luck!
