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The West Highland Terrier, or Westie as they’re fondly called, is a little bundle of energy wrapped up in a fluffy white coat and a personality that punches well above its weight.
With their alert, inquisitive expressions and that signature confident strut, these compact terriers have stolen hearts across the globe.
Originally bred for hunting small game, they now spend their days as spirited companions, loving family pets, and all-round mischief-makers.
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The West Highland Terrier, or Westie as they’re fondly called, is a little bundle of energy wrapped up in a fluffy white coat and a personality that punches well above its weight.
With their alert, inquisitive expressions and that signature confident strut, these compact terriers have stolen hearts across the globe.
Originally bred for hunting small game, they now spend their days as spirited companions, loving family pets, and all-round mischief-makers.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?
Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate West Highland Terrier Guide
About West Highland Terrier
They may be small, but they make up for it with a lively attitude, a good dose of stubbornness, and an unshakable sense of adventure.
If you’re after a dog that’s cheeky, loyal, and packed with personality, West Highland Terrier puppies might just be the perfect fit.
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
Weight
7 to 9 kg
Height
24 to 28 cm
Grooming
Brush your West Highland Terrier puppy every other day.
Origins
The Westie’s story starts in the rugged highlands of Scotland, where tough little terriers were needed to hunt rodents and small prey.
These dogs had to be quick, clever, and sturdy enough to burrow into dens and flush out whatever was hiding inside.
Legend has it that Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch developed the breed after an unfortunate hunting accident.
He had a pack of reddish-brown terriers, but during a hunt, he mistook one for a fox and shot it by mistake. Devastated, he decided to only breed white terriers from then on, ensuring they stood out against the landscape.
The breed was officially recognised in the early 1900s, and since then, the Westie has moved from being a hunter to a beloved companion with a cheeky streak a mile wide.
Key Characteristics Of West Highland Terriers
Are West Highland Terriers Family-Friendly?
Yes. If you’re after a dog with a big personality in a compact package, West Highland Terrier puppies will fit right in.
They love being part of the family, and their playful, energetic nature makes them a great match for households with older kids.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
West Highland Terriers may suffer from:
Craniomandibular osteopathy
A condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the lower jaw and skull, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes difficulty in eating or opening the mouth.
Pulmonary fibrosis
A progressive lung disease characterised by the thickening and scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen supply.
Patellar luxation
A condition where the kneecap moves out of its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone, causing lameness or an abnormal gait.
Nature / Temperament
Loyal, Confident, Lively, Adaptable, Friendly
Suitable Environment
They can be happy in smaller homes, but they’ll still need daily walks and mental stimulation.
Other Considerations
- Westies have been featured in countless advertisements, TV shows, and movies. The most famous one? The little white dog from the Cesar pet food commercials.
- Don’t let the fluffy exterior fool you—Westies were bred to hunt, and that tenacity hasn’t faded. They’ll chase anything that moves and don’t back down easily.
- That adorable sideways head tilt isn’t just for show. Westies are naturally curious dogs, and they tilt their heads when listening to figure out where a sound is coming from.
How can I take good care of my West Highland Terrier?
Nutrition
West Highland Terriers need a well-balanced diet to keep their coats bright, their muscles strong, and their digestion running smoothly.
Because they’re prone to skin allergies, some Westies do better on grain-free or limited-ingredient diets.
Grooming
That fluffy, white coat isn’t low-maintenance—it takes regular care to stop it from turning into a matted, grubby mess.
Their double coat is designed to repel dirt, but it still needs frequent brushing, stripping, and the occasional bath.
Recommended Grooming Tips
A slicker brush or metal comb helps remove loose hair and stop knots from forming.
Clipping can soften their coat, making it lose its dirt-resistant texture. Hand-stripping (plucking dead hairs) keeps the coat in its natural, wiry state.
Westies love to sniff and dig, which means their face gets grubby fast. A damp cloth or pet wipe keeps those white whiskers looking fresh.
Exercise
West Highland Terriers get bored easily. If their routine is too predictable, they’ll start looking for their own entertainment (which usually involves digging, barking, or running off with your socks).
Mix up walks with off-leash play – A fenced dog park or a safe backyard is great for Westies to burn energy.
Training
Westies love doing their own thing, which can make training a bit of a battle of wills.
They’re clever, but they have an independent streak that won’t quit. Start young – Puppies are much easier to train than adult dogs with set habits.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked West Highland Terrier Questions
Yes, they definitely have a lot to say. Westies are alert, confident, and always on the lookout for action, which means they’re quick to bark if they hear a noise, see a stranger, or even if they’re just a bit bored.
They’re not the kind of dog to sit silently in a corner—they like to announce their presence.
Westies shed very little, and their wiry coats produce less dander than some other breeds, so they’re often recommended for allergy sufferers.
However, no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic. Some people with allergies can tolerate a Westie just fine, while others might still react.
As with any breed, finding a reputable, experienced breeder is the key to getting a healthy, well-behaved Westie puppy. A West Highland Terrier from a registered breeder has a much better chance of growing into a calm, gentle adult dog.
The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier for sale is usually around AUD $3000 to $5000.
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