As a topical skin disease common in approximately 25% of all West Highland white terriers, the discomfort comes from severe irritation and skin damage. If not treated, Westies can be prone to severe skin irritation and infections. West Highland White Terriers tend to be predisposed to numerous health issues, such as skin allergies and intolerances, however, many of these issues can be supported via dietary support. Sponsored by Different Dog. Skin allergies and intolerances can plague our dogs causing hair loss and dry irritated broken skin. We will take an in-depth look at skin problems that are common in Westies, as well as discuss some West Highland Terrier allergies. Causes Of West Highland Terrier Skin Problems: 1. Atopic Dermatitis. As mentioned above, this is suspect number one when it comes to itchy and red skin in West Highland Terrier breeds. Skin problems aside, the conditions that Westies have a heightened propensity to be affected by include: "Westie jaw," or to give it its proper name, craniomandibular osteopathy, which will be present in puppies if both parents carry the gene for the condition. 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. The condition is called "atopic dermatitis", or "inhalant allergic skin disease". Fred has a severe allergy to dusts and pollens in the environment. When his skin is exposed to the thousands of microscopic particles that float in the air around us, there is a dramatic allergic reaction. His healthy skin becomes reddened, swollen and itchy. Allergies. Athough they are tough and hardy, Westies are very prone to developing allergies. Allergies can cause distressing symptoms for dogs, primarily itching, and when they scratch and chew at their itchy body parts, they can cause sores, skin irritation, and hair loss. Outline: Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin disease which is common in the West Highland white terrier, possibly affecting 25% of dogs. It causes mild to severe itching which, as a result of scratching or rubbing, often leads to further skin damage, irritation, infection and discomfort. 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 41sw.