 An inherited genetic problem that exists in the breed is globoid cell leukodystrophy . It is not breed @-@ specific , and can appear in Cairn Terriers and other breeds including Beagles and Pomeranians . It is a neurological disease where the dog lacks an enzyme called galactosylceramidase . The symptoms are noticeable as the puppy develops , and can be identified by the age of 30 weeks . Affected dogs have tremors , muscle weakness , and trouble walking . Symptoms slowly increase until limb paralysis begins to occur . Due to it being a hereditary condition , owners should avoid breeding affected animals to eliminate it from the breed . Another genetic condition that affects the breed is " white dog shaker syndrome " . As this condition is most commonly found in Westies and Maltese , the condition was originally thought to be connected to the genes for white coats , but the same condition has since been found in other nonwhite breeds including the Yorkshire Terrier and the Dachshund . The condition typically develops over one to three days , resulting in tremors of the head and limbs , ataxia , and hypermetria . Affected males and females can be affected for different lengths of time , with symptoms in females lasting between four and six weeks , while males can be affected the rest of their lives . 
