Case report expands canine ichthyosis differential in Yorkie mixes

Two littermate mixed-breed Yorkshire terrier puppies were diagnosed with congenital non-epidermolytic ichthyosis in a 2025 Veterinary Dermatology case report, adding Yorkshire terrier mixes to the list of breeds in which this inherited cornification disorder has been described. The diagnosis was supported by histopathology showing lamellar orthokeratosis, and the authors reported that genetic testing for known canine ichthyosis mutations was negative, suggesting this presentation may involve a variant not captured by currently available breed-linked tests. Topical therapy improved the puppies’ skin signs, but lesions relapsed when treatment stopped, reinforcing that management was supportive rather than curative. (accedacris.ulpgc.es)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the report is a reminder that ichthyosis should stay on the differential list for young dogs with generalized scaling, even when the patient is mixed-breed and even when targeted genetic panels come back negative. Histopathology remains central to diagnosis in non-epidermolytic forms, and long-term case planning should prepare pet parents for chronic topical care, monitoring of skin barrier dysfunction, and the possibility of recurrent flares if therapy is discontinued. (accedacris.ulpgc.es)

What to watch: Watch for follow-up genetic work to determine whether these dogs represent a newly recognized breed-associated mutation or a broader mixed-breed presentation not covered by existing tests. (accedacris.ulpgc.es)