West Highland White Terrier Overview

The Westie is one of the most popular Terrier breeds. With its pristine white coat and tiny stature, it is obviously a family lapdog. But since it is a Terrier, it originated as a working dog for catching vermin. 

Needless to say, it has taken its transformation with all success. A highly adaptable breed, the Westie is the ideal family Terrier. By either exercising in the country or relaxing in an apartment, this dog is happy as long as its family is somewhere nearby. 

Prospective owners should always be aware of such popular breeds, because puppy mills typically appear en masse to supply the demand, churning out unhealthy and irritable dogs by the dozen. 

Coat care is a moderate requirement, needing regular brushings and coat strippings every four months. For a well-rounded, non-challenging family pet, the Westie is second to none.

West Highland White Terrier History

The Westie is a hybrid of other Terriers, among them the Cairn Terrier. The breed originated somewhere in Scotland in the 17^th century. Originally known by multiple names, the Westie was usually named after breeds that existed in the realms of Scottish Dukes and Colonels. 

It is not until the early 20^th century that the English Kennel Club give it an official name. It is unknown when the Westie first came to the United States, but it is assumed to be around the same time the breed was given its official name.     

West Highland White Terrier Character

Westies thrive best in an active family, usually encouraging its owners to go out back and get a little exercise with it. The Westie is so energetic, in fact, it can be an annoying little dog that constantly wants to drag its exhausted owner to yet another fun event. 

Its Terrier instincts cannot be completely eliminated, so it is important to be wary of smaller animals around this dog. While not very patient, the dog can still get along with other dogs and sensible children. Small children are likely to play too rough with the Westie, resulting in nipped little fingers. 

Training can be summarized in one phrase: this is a Terrier. They are not brilliant or very eager to learn, but their learning capabilities are not entirely limited. Training should be kept fun and frequent for this dog to excel, but look elsewhere if searching for a winner in obedience competitions. If its hunting instincts surface, then the owners may spend much of their time chasing as it follows a scent. 

The Westie is a great, compact family dog that nonetheless retains its Terrier instincts.

West Highland White Terrier Care

The West Highland White Terrier 's double coat requires brushing twice weekly. They also require having their coat professionally stripped at least two times per year. They should only be bathed when necessary, as they are prone to dry skin. The Westie may be susceptible to deafness, patella luxation, and allergies.

West Highland White Terrier Training

The West Highland White Terrier must be trained beginning at an early age especially in the area of socialization. They respond best to love and gentle guidance. As with most all Terrier breeds, harsh methods of training are met with stubbornness. The Westie is usually open to obedience training provided it is done fairly and consistently.

West Highland White Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the West Highland White Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the West Highland White Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

West Highland White Terrier Resources