A little look at life together.
Getting to know the West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a sturdy Scottish earthdog with an alert manner and a distinct white double coat. Regular stripping or clipping and safe, interesting walks belong in the care plan.
An everyday routine
Make space for substantial daily activity and short learning sessions. A busy weekend cannot replace a dependable weekday routine.
Coat care to plan for
Set aside time each week for coat care, checking through the hair rather than only brushing the surface. Shedding periods or longer furnishings may need extra attention.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
West Highland White Terrier questions
Do Westies shed?
A little. Westies do not shed heavily, and regular brushing keeps loose hair to a minimum. Daily brushing and combing helps, with a groomer visit about every 4 to 6 weeks.
How big does a full-grown West Highland White Terrier get?
Males stand about 11 inches tall and females about 10 inches, with adults weighing 15 to 20 pounds. The breed is small but sturdy, and Westies are solid for their size.
How long do Westies live?
Most live 13 to 15 years, and some reach 16 or more, so plan on a Westie being part of the family for a long time. Responsible breeders screen for cardiac disease and patellar luxation, which are good topics to raise with a breeder and your vet.
Do Westies bark a lot?
They are vocal watchdogs. Westies are not yappers, but they do like to announce a visitor. Early training and enough attention reduce the chance of problem barking.
Are Westies hypoallergenic?
No dog is. Westies are relatively low in dander and may be acceptable for some people with allergies or asthma, but that is a long way from a guarantee. Westies do still shed a little.
Are Westies good with children?
It depends on the children's age and on adult supervision. Children of about 10 and older tend to enjoy playing ball games with a Westie. The breed is not a good fit for a home where the whole neighborhood's children gather, because that much excitement can be too much for the dog.
Why are Westies white?
The breed traces to the Malcolm family's Poltalloch estate in Scotland, where the little terriers were kept to hunt rats and other rodents. Legend has it that a reddish terrier of Malcolm's was shot after being mistaken for a fox, and that he then decided to breed only white dogs that were easy to see in the field. That story is a legend, not a documented fact.
Do Westies dig, and can they be trusted off leash?
Many dig. Digging is natural for a terrier bred to go to ground, and a Westie with the instinct is not easily discouraged. Even a well-trained Westie is not reliable when it spots a squirrel or a bird, so plan on a leash and a fence.
