Westies can be left alone for as long as eight hours per day without developing separation anxiety. While it's rare for a Westie to show signs of distress, this dog breed does exhibit some of the classic symptoms of anxiety. While left alone for longer than eight hours per day, it will most likely become restless and exhibit some signs of distress, such as whining and howling. Left alone for longer than eight hours a day, this breed is susceptible to developing health problems such as cataracts, Addison's disease, a degenerative brain disease, and skin problems.