West Highland White Terrier vs Golden Retriever
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Golden Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Golden Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Golden Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Golden Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Golden Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Golden Retriever5/5
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
Golden Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Skin Allergies: Common in breed
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
Golden Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Friendly disposition
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to health issues
Can be mouthy
Requires regular grooming
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!
Golden Retriever Fun Fact
Golden Retrievers have such soft mouths they can carry an egg without breaking it, a trait from their hunting heritage.
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.
Golden Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s by Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve waterfowl in challenging terrains. Combined existing retrievers with water spaniels for the perfect hunting companion.
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.
Golden Retriever
Regular grooming needed to manage shedding. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Joint health should be monitored, especially in growing puppies.