Understanding Health Risks in West Highland White Terriers

Quick answer

West Highland White Terriers are wonderful companions, but they are prone to a specific set of health challenges that require proactive monitoring. By understanding the conditions associated with the breed, such as joint issues, heart rhythm irregularities, and respiratory concerns, you can better support your dog's long-term well-being. Regular home exams and clear communication with your veterinary team are the most effective ways to manage these risks.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

This condition involves the deterioration of the head of the thigh bone, which is a well-recognised tendency in the breed. It most commonly appears in young dogs. You might first notice your dog starting to favor one hind leg or showing signs of discomfort when walking or jumping. The vet will perform a physical examination and likely recommend X-rays to visualize the hip joint and confirm the diagnosis. Urgency is determined by the severity of the pain and the degree of lameness. A common mistake is assuming that a slight limp is just a minor sprain, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and unnecessary discomfort.

Sick Sinus Syndrome

This is a condition affecting the heart's electrical system, and it is a recognised tendency in the breed, particularly in older females. At home, you might notice your dog appearing unusually tired, experiencing fainting spells, or showing a general lack of energy. Your vet will listen to the heart and may perform an electrocardiogram to monitor the heart's rhythm. The urgency of this condition is high, especially if your dog collapses. A common mistake is dismissing these episodes as simple tiredness due to age rather than investigating the underlying heart rhythm issue.

Ventricular Septal Defect

This is a structural heart condition that is a recognised tendency in the breed. It involves an opening in the wall separating the heart's lower chambers. Owners might notice their dog tiring easily during exercise or having a persistent cough. The vet will use a stethoscope to listen for a heart murmur and may suggest an ultrasound of the heart to confirm the defect. The urgency depends on how well the heart is compensating for the defect. Do not assume a murmur is harmless; always follow up with the recommended imaging to understand the severity.

Pulmonary Hypertension

This condition involves high blood pressure within the arteries of the lungs and is a recognised tendency in the breed, often associated with pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. You may notice your dog struggling to breathe or showing signs of respiratory distress, especially after mild exertion. The vet will assess your dog's breathing and may use specialized imaging or blood pressure measurements to evaluate the lungs and heart. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention if your dog shows signs of gasping or severe respiratory effort. A common mistake is waiting to see if breathing improves on its own when it is clearly labored.