Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Terrier

Weight:

15 – 20 pounds

Height:

11 inches

Color(s):

White

Coat:

The West Highland White Terrier has soft, dense undercoat and a rough outer coat that requires regular brushing.

Overview

Character:

The West Highland White Terrier is active, alert, and hardy. It is muscular and strongly-built, and possesses a big dog’s ego despite its compact size. Originally bred as hunting dogs in the rugged Scottish moors, modern West Highland White Terriers still have the strength and energy of their ancestors.

Country of Origin:

Scotland

History:

The West Highland White Terrier originated from Cairn Terrier and Scottish Terrier. The breed was first developed in the 1800s. Their white coat was important for their role as hunting dogs, since hunters could mistake darker colored dogs for foxes and shoot them accidentally.

Name:

The name reflects the breed’s origin.
“Westie” is a common nickname given to this breed.

Temperament:

West Highland White Terriers have a typical terrier’s temperament: alert, active, and happy. They are bold and full of energy, and despite their small size, can be very protective of their owners and possessions. They like to assume a guard dog’s duty and alert their owners of any anomaly in the environment; as such, they tend to bark and are rather feisty. They are affectionate, get along well with children and other animals, and therefore are great companions as well as family pets.

Care

Training:

Westies can be a little stubborn, but with patience and consistency in training they will be obedient pets. Because they do have a hunting instinct, they have to be introduced to other pets (such as cats) gradually.

Activity:

West Highland White Terriers are highly energetic, and would enjoy two to three walks a day as well as space to run and play.

Ownership:

While the Westies’s size makes them easily adaptable to living in an urban setting, owners must ensure that they have adequate exercise. They do not shed profusely, although the coat needs to be brushed three times a week. Westies are also prone to skin irritation, so bathe only when required and no more than once a month.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

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