West Highland White Terrier vs Chihuahua
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Chihuahua: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Chihuahua: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Chihuahua: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Chihuahua1/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Chihuahua3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Chihuahua2/5
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
Chihuahua
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Hydrocephalus: Fluid in brain cavity
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar risk
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
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
Chihuahua
Pros
Highly portable
Long lifespan
Minimal space requirements
Strong loyalty to owners
Cons
Fragile physique
Can be yappy
May be aggressive if not socialized
Temperature sensitive
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!
Chihuahua Fun Fact
The smallest dog ever recorded was a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly, weighing only 1 pound at maturity.
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.
Chihuahua
Origin:
Revered companions in ancient Toltec civilization of Mexico, these small dogs served as sacred animals and cherished companions to nobility during the pre-Columbian era.
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.
Chihuahua
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to fragile build, and attention to dental health. Regular grooming and consistent training essential.