My dog is a westie and she's around 12-13 years old. She's begun to snap when you touch her and growl when you talk to her. She also has a high pitched bark when you keep touching her. She's also begun to stare at things for minutes at a time?

She is facing all the problems of old age, like losing her eyesight, which is probably why she is starring at things and hearing. When you can't hear or see you tend to be scared and afraid. A westies life span is any where from 12 to 16 years of age. If she has not seen a Vet recently I would suggest a visit especially if she is barking out when you touch her, suggesting that she is hurting. If you cannot afford a trip to the Vet's, your local animal shelter or humane society may be able to help you at a reduced cost or for free. Good luck.