Read About West Highland White Terrier

West Highland White Terrier is a lively, extremely intelligent and obedient dog that is much suited to an active family. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

West Highland White Terrier - Dog Breed Facts

1. AKC Group:

   They belong to the Terrier Group.

2. Size & Weight:

   This breed can grow up to 9-11 inches tall and 13-22 lbs in weight.

3. Coat:

   It is usually double coated with hard and white outer coat that may be two inches long in some places. The undercoat is soft.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   It has a wide head often shaped to present round appearance. Eyes are almond-shaped and set wide apart with the trademark 'piercing look' through the bushy eyebrows. Muzzle is blunt and with a black nose.

5. Body:

   Very deep chest with sloping shoulders and short and strong loin is seen. Compact and sturdy body is characteristic.

6. Colors:

   The breed comes in white color.

7. Life Expectancy:

   They can live up tp more than 15 years.

8. Popularity:

   The breed is consistently increasing in popularity, with the AKC ranking it number 32 in 2005.

9. Habitat:

   They are well suited for both urban and country setting. They also do equally well both indoors and outdoors, though regular exercise is necessary when raised in apartments.

West Highland White Terrier - Dog Breed Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   This breed is said to have originated in Scotland.

2. Lineage:

   Their ancestry lies among the Scotland Terriers.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   They were admitted to the AKC in 1908.

4. Historical Information:

   This breed was actually used to hunt vermin in Scotland. Bred around 1800s they did not make official appearance until 1907. They were once owned by Colonel Malcom of Poltalloch and thus the name Poltalloch Terrier at that time. They were also called Roseneath Terriers at one time.

West Highland White Terrier - Dog Breed Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   They are very easy to train as these highly intelligent creatures are equally obedient.

2. Temperament:

   Active and fun loving, these delightful dogs are also full of substance and self-confidence. They are very lively and perky. They simply love outdoors and are equally active indoors.

3. Child Friendly:

   They are friendly with children, but may snap when irritated.

4. Behavior:

   These creatures love to bound joyously in yards and open spaces.

5. Habits:

   They like to bark and dig hard.

West Highland White Terrier - Dog Breed Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Skin allergies, hip problems, deafness, jawbone calcification and heart diseases are common issues dealt with.

2. Feeding:

   Allergy to wheat and corn is seen sometimes. Also it needs high protein and fat in food.

3. Exercise Needs: {mosimage}

   Regular daily walk will do. They like to play outdoors.

4. Grooming Needs:

   Regular brushing with bristle brush will take care of the white outer coat. The coat also demands stripping and plucking. Trimming around the ears and eyes is also required.

5. Special Household Needs:

   Scissors, Bristle Brush and protein supplements are required.

6. Travel Needs:

   Dog car seats and travel crates are useful.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   They are good with other pets.

West Highland White Terrier - How to Choose your Dog Breed

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   {mosimage}Confidence and bright eyes are necessary. Also check the dam and sire's health certification.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Puppy crate with bedding, lots of playthings.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Keep small items away from him, also keep an eye on him always and keep the doors locked. Keep the yard free of marshy soil as these pups dig a lot and can get very dirty.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   Allow the pup to wander freely within his boundaries. Keep company as much as possible and feed him on regular times.