West Highland White Terrier
Quick Summary
Intelligent, confident terriers best suited for active owners who appreciate their bold personality. Ideal for those committed to regular grooming and positive training methods.
Contents
Weight Range
15-20 lbs
♂ Male: 15-20 lbs
♀ Female: 15-20 lbs
Height Range
25-28 inches
♂ Male: 11-11"
♀ Female: 11-11"
Life Expectancy
13-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey
Popularity
#42
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 11"-11" |
| Female Height | 11"-11" |
| Male Weight | 15-20 lbs |
| Female Weight | 15-20 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover premium food, grooming ($50-70), and preventive healthcare. Emergency medical costs should be anticipated.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Bold and confident, Westies display typical terrier traits with an independent streak. They combine playfulness with determination, showing high intelligence and moderate energy levels. While friendly, they maintain a self-assured attitude.
Social Needs
Westies are social dogs who enjoy family interaction but can tolerate some alone time. They generally get along well with other dogs but may need early socialization. Daily attention and companionship are essential.
Breed Overview
West Highland White Terriers, affectionately known as 'Westies', feature a distinctive white double coat, compact muscular body, and alert carriage. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes and perked ears give them an intelligent, inquisitive expression. Standing 10-11 inches tall, these sturdy terriers combine strength with agility, displaying confident movement and a proud stance characteristic of their Scottish heritage.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Adaptable to different living situations
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Low-shedding coat
- ✓ Alert watchdog
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ May chase small animals
- ✗ Can be vocal
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Loyal, Happy, Entertaining |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Daily Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Westies require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different exercise routines, though they excel in activities that engage their natural hunting instincts.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Westies typically need 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention should be paid to preventing obesity, with adjusted portions based on activity level and age.
Feed high-quality dry kibble formulated for small breeds, divided into two daily meals totaling 1/2 to 1 cup. Monitor weight carefully as Westies can become overweight. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to both apartments and houses, Westies need minimal space but require secure fencing. They thrive in environments where they can explore safely and enjoy moderate climate conditions.
Though small, Westies need secure outdoor access for exercise and exploration. They adapt well to apartment living but thrive with a fenced yard. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for various living situations.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Scottish farmers developed these white terriers in the West Highlands, selecting for a hardy breed that could pursue prey through rough terrain. Their white coat emerged from selective breeding after a tragic hunting accident involving a red-coated terrier.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.