West Highland White Terrier
DogSmallWeight 6β9 kgLifespan 13β16 yrs
The snowy cannonball β atopic dermatitis is nearly a breed hallmark and skin care is a lifelong job; senior pulmonary fibrosis also appears.
Temperament: Confident and vocal, lively, classic terrier spirit
π©Ί Common diseases & risks
High
Atopic dermatitis
The breed's signature β recurrent paw licking and scratching
Common
Pulmonary fibrosis (senior)
Progressive breathlessness β needs chest CT
Common
Patellar luxation / Legg-Perthes
Hind-limb limping needs imaging
Watch
Cataracts
Senior eye monitoring
π Recommended screening & frequency
- #1Dermatology follow-up (itch = visit)
- #2Knee + hip imaging for lameness
- #3Eye exam (senior, annual)
π Nutrition
Low-allergen / single-protein diets often help; omega-3s support skin.
π Daily care
Regular hand-stripping or trimming; don't over-bathe β protect the skin barrier.
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