Health

The West Highland White Terrier is a robust and healthy breed. Westies have been fortunate to have strict studbooks and regulations which made it difficult for unscrupulous breeders to genetically harm the West Highland White Terrier through practices such as inbreeding.

To ensure optimal health, our bloodline has been rigorously genetically tested against the only known breed specific disease, Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO). CMO is an inherited disease which is characterized by changes in the bones of the jaw in younger Scotch terrier breeds including West Highland White Terriers, Cairn Terriers, and Scottish Terriers. The symptoms of this disease generally occur at 4-8 months of age and disappear as the dog matures. Typical symptoms of CMO include jaw swelling and pain when chewing, difficulty opening mouth and swallowing, loss of appetite, and drooling.

Other ailments which affect the West Highland White Terrier breed include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, allergies and ocular glaucoma. It is important to note that these ailments affect many breeds of dogs and none of these conditions are exclusive to purebred dogs.

Purebred dogs have been given a bad reputation by some as being “unhealthy” which is a harmful notion encouraged by individuals whom breed unregulated companions often of mixed heritage. Regulation ensures that records are maintained for purebred dogs which encourages accountability and affords some predictability with respects to health screening.

West Highland White Terriers have been selectively bred from the Scotch Terrier breeds to maintain their white coloration without exploiting genetic mutations such as albinism. An indication of quality in this breed is the black nose, eye rims, paw pads and skin which protects the Westie from the elements.

It has been said that dogs guarantee us many of the best days, and one very bad one. Thankfully West Highland White Terriers generally have very long healthy lifespans of 12-16 years or more.