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West Highland White Terriers are famous, both for their confident and friendly demeanour. They are animals that love participating in family activities. However, they can show some stubbornness at times so consistent and patient training is essential. Their terrier background means they are alert and may bark frequently, making them great watchdogs.
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West Highland White Terriers are famous, both for their confident and friendly demeanour. They are animals that love participating in family activities. However, they can show some stubbornness at times so consistent and patient training is essential. Their terrier background means they are alert and may bark frequently, making them great watchdogs.
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
The West Highland White Terrier lovingly called the Westie is a well liked breed recognised for its white fur and lively character. Originating from Scotland, this small robust terrier has captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
Weight
7 to 9 kg
Height
24 to 28 cm
Grooming
Brush your Westie’s coat at least twice a week using a slicker brush or comb.
Origins
Although the exact beginnings of the breed remain a mystery, it is believed that today’s Westies can be traced back to the 1700s when a Scottish family began breeding terriers as earth dogs proficient in locating and dealing with rats.
Over a century of breeding by the Malcolms was dedicated to ensuring these dogs possessed good genetic traits.
Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm, of Poltalloch, Argyllshire, Scotland, was said to be the first to develop and popularise the white-coated West Highland Terrier as we know them today – though he certainly did not take credit for it.
Rumour has it that Malcolm wanted a small white dog that could easily be spotted while out hunting on misty days in his native Scotland.
Some people think that a few of these Poltalloch terriers were sent to England and played a role in establishing the lineage of what we call the West Highland Terrier.
Even though they have been around for centuries, the breed was officially acknowledged in 1907 when it made an appearance at the Crufts dog show in England.
Key Characteristics Of West Highland Terriers
Are West Highland Terriers Family-Friendly?
Yes. Westies are excellent family pets. They are particularly good with older children who understand how to interact with small dogs.
Their versatility and compact size make them ideal for living environments like apartments. Yet, it’s crucial to socialise them to ensure they interact well with animals and humans.
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 thrive in apartment settings when provided with exercise. Having a fenced yard is great for allowing them to safely roam and satisfy their hunting instincts, which may prompt them to chase creatures.
For Westie owners dealing with dogs that have a penchant for digging, setting up a sandbox or a kiddie pool filled with sand can offer a designated area for their pet to dig to their heart’s delight.
Other Considerations
- Westies have strong wills and a good deal of self-esteem, which can often mean that owners who lack experience in training a self-assured dog may encounter difficulty.
- They are known for being particularly good at digging due to their terrier roots.
- Male Westies tend to be okay in homes with more than one dog. Caution should be advised when introducing a Westie to a home with another un-neutered male dog.
How can I take good care of my West Highland Terrier?
Nutrition
The dietary requirements of a West Highland White Terrier are close to those of similarly-sized dog breeds but there are some specific factors to consider. It’s crucial to select a premium quality dog food that suits their age, size and activity level.
Given that Westies can be susceptible to gaining weight, it’s important to monitor their food consumption. Overfeeding may result in health issues such as problems and diabetes.
It’s advisable to offer treats using them as part of training sessions or occasional rewards. Maintaining a balanced diet with nutrients is vital for their overall health and happiness.
Grooming
During shedding season, it’s important to brush your Westie often to get rid of loose hairs from their coat.
The grooming requirements for your Westie may vary based on the type of haircut you opt for. For instance, the classic West Highland Terrier cut, commonly seen on show dogs, will require hand stripping about once a month.
Recommended Grooming Tips
West Highland Terriers despite their white fur typically stay clean unless they have been busy digging.
It is recommended to brush them with a pin or slicker brush a few times per week with daily brushing being the best practice.
Additionally, it is advisable to use vet approved toothpaste to brush their teeth 3 to 4 times a week.
Exercise
Even though Westies are tiny, they have a lot of energy. They require physical activity to maintain their well being and happiness. It’s important to take them for walks every day and also engage them in play sessions that stimulate both their minds and bodies.
Games, like fetch agility training and simple puzzles, that challenge them or involve finding treats are great ways to keep them mentally sharp and physically fit.
If West Highland Terrier puppies don’t get enough exercise, they may develop behavioural issues like excessive barking, digging or destructive behavior.
Training
Raising a West Highland Terrier puppy calls for patience and a steady approach given their stubbornness and independent streak. They thrive with positive reinforcement techniques, like praise, treats and playtime.
Introducing them to individuals, animals and settings from a young age plays a crucial role in shaping a well rounded companion. This exposure aids in their adaptability and reduces the likelihood of anxiety or aggressive behavior.
Consistent training sessions serve not only to reinforce positive actions but also to engage their minds, offering mental stimulation that is just as vital as physical activity.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked West Highland Terrier Questions
No, West Highland Terrier puppies should not live outdoors. They require a lot of human interaction and companionship, so it is best for them to live indoors with their owners.
They are also small enough that they can be attacked by birds of prey, and while uncommon, there are instances of dogs of this size being carried off by owls, hawks or eagles.
While Westies are generally responsive to most forms of training, they can be resistant to house training like other small dogs.
It may be beneficial to crate train a West Highland Terrier puppy to speed up the house training process.
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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