Read About West Highland White Terrier Dog

The West Highland White Terrier, also known as The Westie, is fairly friendly toward strangers and well-behaved children. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick West Highland White Terrier Summary:

1. Size:

   Small

2. Weight:

   11 -- 20 lbs

3. Coat:

   Short, double coat

4. Shedding:

   Little to none

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Very Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Good with Children

West Highland White Terrier - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Terrier; 1908

2. Size & Weight:

   9 -- 12 inches tall and 13 -- 22 pounds

3. Coat:

   Double coated, this breed has harsh, straight, short hair.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their heads are shaped to present a round appearance when looking at them from the front. Their muzzles are blunt and tapers gradually toward the nose.

5. Body:

   The Westie has a compact body with a very deep chest.

6. Colors:

   White

7. Life Expectancy:

   Approximately 15 years

8. Popularity:

   This breed is moderately popular.

9. Habitat:

   Due to its size, the Westie does well in both apartments and more spacious quarters; they are very active indoors and will do okay with a small yard.

West Highland White Terrier - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Scotland

2. Historical Information:

   Westies were originally bred to help control the population of vermin, fox and otters; now it is primarily bred as a companion dog.

West Highland White Terrier - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Alert, courageous and friendly.

2. Behavior:

   Friendly, cocky and spunky, Westies love companionship.

3. Habits:

   Westies like to dig and bark.

West Highland White Terrier - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Most Westies are very healthy. Although infrequent, owners do need to be aware that some Westies can be prone to skin problems, hip problems, hernias, liver disease and jawbone calcification.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Westies enjoy regular walks, but will not be upset if they miss a day or two.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Fairly easy to groom, the Westie needs to be brushed regulary with a stiff bristle brush.

4. Travel Needs:

   Being small in size, this breed is easy to travel with; they do well in a crate while traveling by car.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   The Westie gets along well with well-behaved children and are extremely self-assured when in the presence of other dogs. Although they like to chase cats, they do so only for fun.

West Highland White Terrier - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear, bright eyes, a wet nose, healthy coat and playful nature.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Lots of toys, room to run, a training collar and leash and housebreaking materials.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As with other breeds, it is a good idea to eliminate temptation before you bring your new puppy home. Remove items that can easily be ingested by your puppy and put them up out of reach.