West Highland White Terrier vs Barbet
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Barbet: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Barbet: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Barbet: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Barbet5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Barbet5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Barbet3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
Barbet
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Pros & Cons Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
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
Barbet
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Good with families
Low shedding coat
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires regular exercise
Can be expensive to maintain
Prone to ear infections
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Barbet Fun Fact
Barbets are so water-loving that their nickname in France is 'Barbet of the marshes'!
Heritage & Purpose
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
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.
Barbet
Origin:
French water dogs from the 16th century, Barbets were developed to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. Their waterproof coat and swimming ability made them invaluable hunting companions.
Special Considerations
West Highland White Terrier
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.
Barbet
Regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat, access to swimming opportunities, and protection from ear infections during water activities are essential.