Allergies. Seborrhea Skin Condition. Dental Crowding. Otitis Externa Ear Infection. Obesity. Sensitive Stomach. Joint Problems. White Shaker Dog Syndrome. Pulmonary Fibrosis. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) Dry Eye Syndrome. Cataracts. Small Dog Syndrome. 1. Allergies. The most common West Highland Terrier health concern is allergies. Let's explore whether West Highland White Terriers can be considered hypoallergenic by examining their coat and comparing them to other breeds energetic dogs known for low allergens on their skin. They also recommended as a hypoallergenic dog breed as they are a low shedding breed. saliva. urine. sweat. other doggy body fluids. While dog hair itself doesn't usually cause allergies, when it sheds, it aids in the spread of allergens into the air. Are Westies Good for Allergy Sufferers? You might be surprised to learn that around one in ten people has an allergy to dogs. 1. Skin Infections. It is estimated that 66% of Westies will develop skin infections by 3 years of age. 1 Skin infections can be caused by environmental allergies or potentially food allergies. Signs of allergies vary; however, they can include hair loss, intense itchiness, skin infections, and ear infections. Westie Armadillo Syndrome refers to a skin condition affecting West Highland White Terriers. Also known as epidermal dysplasia, this abnormal skin growth results in itchy and thickened skin that can cause skin folds in various areas of the body. While it can occur at any age, it typically begins in puppies around 2 to 6 months old. The West Highland Terrier is considered hypoallergenic, which makes it a great choice for people with mild allergies. The West Highland Terrier produces minimal fur and dander and is relatively low-shedding. As long as you take proactive steps, you can avoid dandruff and hair. The plant that Westies seem to be most allergic to (in New Zealand, anyway) is Tradescantia fluminensis - known more commonly as "wandering jew". It likes growing in dark, shady places and it is really hard to get rid of. This is what wandering jew looks like: A weed called "wandering jew" causes allergies in Westies. The West Highland white terrier is prone to allergies and other skin diseases. One of these conditions is Westie Armadillo Syndrome or epidermal dysplasia. In this condition, the dog's Atopica ® or Gengraf ® (generic: Cyclosporine) Malassezia may be triggered by Atopic dermatitis, an underlying allergy to common airborne allergens such as pollens, molds and dust mites. Atopic dermatitis is the most common allergic skin disease in dogs. The disease is chronic and lasts a lifetime. Respiratory allergies may be caused by cigarette smoke, certain plants and grasses, inhaled chemical vapors, dust mites, and pollen. Pollen allergies will be seasonal generally limited to Springtime. Bathing your Westie to remove allergens from their coat and skin may help. MFnu952.