West Highland White Terrier vs Boerboel
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Boerboel: Calm0.4
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Boerboel: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Boerboel: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Boerboel4/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Boerboel2/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Boerboel3/5
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
Boerboel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Heart Problems: Cardiac concerns
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Ectropion: Eyelid condition
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
Boerboel
Pros
Excellent guardian
Loyal family companion
Intelligent
Calm temperament
Low grooming needs
Cons
Requires extensive training
Not suitable for small spaces
High food costs
May be too powerful for inexperienced owners
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!
Boerboel Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Boerboels are known as 'velcro dogs' due to their desire to stay close to their owners.
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.
Boerboel
Origin:
Developed in South Africa during the 17th century as farm guardians and protectors against predators. These dogs were essential for protecting homesteads and livestock.
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.
Boerboel
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential despite calm nature. Health monitoring important due to size-related issues.