West Highland White Terrier vs Italian Greyhound
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Italian Greyhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Italian Greyhound: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Italian Greyhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Italian Greyhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Italian Greyhound5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Italian Greyhound5/5
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
Italian Greyhound
Dental Disease: Common gum problems
Leg Fractures: Due to fine bones
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Eye Problems: Progressive issues
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Knee problems
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
Italian Greyhound
Pros
Gentle and affectionate
Low grooming needs
Excellent apartment dog
Minimal shedding
Cons
Fragile bone structure
Cold sensitivity
Challenging to housebreak
Separation anxiety prone
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!
Italian Greyhound Fun Fact
Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour!
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.
Italian Greyhound
Origin:
Refined in Italy during the Renaissance period as companion dogs for nobility, these graceful hounds served as cherished pets in palaces and estates across Europe.
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.
Italian Greyhound
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate bone structure, and consistent dental care. Cannot tolerate rough play or extended outdoor exposure.