West Highland White Terrier vs Black Russian Terrier
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Black Russian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Black Russian Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Black Russian Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Black Russian Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Black Russian Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Black Russian Terrier2/5
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
Black Russian Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Hyperuricosuria: Urinary stones
Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis: Breathing
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
Black Russian Terrier
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Excellent guard dog
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires extensive training
Not apartment suitable
Can be stubborn
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!
Black Russian Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Black Russian Terriers are known as 'Black Pearls of Russia' for their gentle nature.
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.
Black Russian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the 1940s by the Soviet Red Star Kennel for military and police work. Combined multiple breeds to create an ideal working dog for cold climates.
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.
Black Russian Terrier
Daily brushing required to maintain coat. Needs extensive socialization and training from early age. Regular exercise crucial for physical and mental well-being.