West Highland White Terrier vs Boston Terrier
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Boston Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Boston Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Boston Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Boston Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Boston Terrier4/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Boston Terrier5/5
Living Requirements
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
Boston Terrier
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Cataracts: Vision deterioration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Deafness: Hearing loss risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
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
Boston Terrier
Pros
Great with families
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Adaptable
Friendly personality
Cons
Breathing difficulties
Heat sensitive
Potential snoring
Some stubbornness
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!
Boston Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'American Gentleman' due to their tuxedo-like coat pattern and gentle, courteous 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.
Boston Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s, these dogs were bred from bull and terrier types to create a refined companion dog for city dwellers.
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.
Boston Terrier
Sensitive to extreme temperatures due to flat face. Regular eye cleaning needed. Moderate exercise requirements with attention to breathing during activity.