West Highland White Terrier
Summary
The West Highland White Terrier — universally known as "Westie" — is one of the most popular terriers in the world, recognizable by its immaculate white coat and lively expression. Developed in Western Scotland (hence "West Highland") to hunt foxes and rodents in rocky terrain, the Westie was selected with a white coat after a tragic accident in which a breeder (supposedly Malcolm of Poltalloch) shot at what he thought was a fox and killed his own brown terrier. Legend or not, it resulted in one of the most beloved breeds in the world.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 28 cm
- Height (female)
- 26 cm
- Weight (male)
- 7–10 kg
- Weight (female)
- 6–9 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–16 years
- Coat
- double; straight, hard, and white outer coat; abundant and soft undercoat
- Common Colors
- pure white (only accepted color)
Temperament & Personality
The Westie is active, self-confident, cheerful, and with an almost universal appeal. It is much more sociable with strangers than most terriers, while remaining determined and courageous when needed. It likes to play with children, adapts well to apartments (with adequate exercise), and is generally good with other dogs. It has the terrier tendency to bark and dig, but to a more manageable degree.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 45–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 3–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Atopic dermatitis (very common; \"Westie Armpit Disease\" or White Shaker Dog Syndrome)
- Hereditary deafness
- Hip dysplasia
- Portosystemic shunt
- Westie interstitial pulmonary disease (WIPD)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Dermatological evaluation
- Hip evaluation
- Pulmonary evaluation in senior adults
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
