West Highland White Terrier vs Japanese Spitz
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Japanese Spitz: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Japanese Spitz: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Japanese Spitz: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Japanese Spitz3/5
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
Japanese Spitz
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Eye Problems: Tear duct 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
Japanese Spitz
Pros
Excellent family companion
Adaptable to various living situations
Low maintenance health needs
Good with children
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Moderate shedding
May be reserved with strangers
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!
Japanese Spitz Fun Fact
Despite their fluffy white coat, Japanese Spitz are surprisingly low-maintenance and self-cleaning!
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.
Japanese Spitz
Origin:
Developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s by breeding various spitz-type dogs. Valued as companion dogs and show dogs, particularly admired for their striking appearance.
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.
Japanese Spitz
Regular brushing needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for common health issues like patellar luxation.