West Highland White Terrier vs Norwegian Buhund
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Norwegian Buhund: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Norwegian Buhund: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Norwegian Buhund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
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
Norwegian Buhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Cataracts common
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood disorder
Skin Allergies: Various triggers
Dental Issues: Regular care needed
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
Norwegian Buhund
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Requires regular grooming
Strong herding instincts
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!
Norwegian Buhund Fun Fact
Viking age artifacts show these dogs were so valued they were often buried alongside their owners!
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Origin:
Developed in Norway during the Viking age as versatile farm dogs, these skilled herders managed livestock and served as watchdogs across the Norwegian mountains.
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.