Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in West Highland White Terriers

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive condition in which the delicate tissue of the lungs becomes thickened and scarred over time, making it harder for oxygen to pass into the bloodstream. In West Highland White Terriers, this pattern appears more frequently than in other breeds, though the underlying trigger remains unknown. The scarring tends to be gradual and irreversible. Owners often notice a cough that persists over weeks or months, sometimes accompanied by faster breathing or reduced stamina during walks. The signs can be subtle at first and may be mistaken for other respiratory conditions. Some dogs show these changes in middle age, while others remain unaffected until later in life. This page explores what signs may be observed, what is understood about the changes occurring in the lung tissue, how the condition is investigated through imaging and other tests, and what approaches exist to manage symptoms and slow progression. The course varies between individuals, and the information here is intended to support understanding rather than predict what will happen in a particular dog.