West Highland White Terrier vs Harrier
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Harrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Harrier: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Harrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Harrier4/5
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
Harrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various vision concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus risk
Ear Infections: Common due to drop ears
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
Harrier
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Social and friendly
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong hunting instincts
Can be vocal
Needs secure fencing
Not apartment suitable
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!
Harrier Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.