West Highland White Terrier Health Guide

Back to West Highland White Terrier Overview

Understanding the health profile of the West Highland White Terrier helps owners make informed decisions about screening, insurance, and preventive care. Like many pedigree breeds, the West Highland White Terrier is prone to certain hereditary and acquired health conditions, most notably Patellar Luxation. With attentive care, most West Highland White Terriers can be expected to live 13–15 years. Smaller breeds often enjoy longer lifespans but can be prone to dental disease and patellar luxation; regular dental care and weight monitoring are particularly important.

Conditions Affecting West Highland White Terriers

• Patellar Luxation Moderate Risk Hereditary

  Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 4 months - 6 years Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£3,500

  Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. It can be medial (inward) or lateral (outward) and ranges from grade 1 (occasional slipping) to grade 4 (permanent dislocation).

  Key symptoms: Intermittent skipping on hind leg · Sudden leg lifting · Bunny-hopping · Hind limb lameness · +1 more

  Full details, symptoms & treatment