West Highland White Terrier vs Norwegian Elkhound
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Norwegian Elkhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Norwegian Elkhound: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Norwegian Elkhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Norwegian Elkhound4/5
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 Elkhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Cysts: Skin growths
Fanconi Syndrome: Kidney disorder
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
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 Elkhound
Pros
Loyal and dependable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong hunting instincts
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
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 Elkhound Fun Fact
Norwegian Elkhounds can track moose for several days through deep snow, earning them the nickname 'gray ghost of the North.'
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 Elkhound
Origin:
Nordic hunters relied on these dogs during the Viking Age to track and hunt moose and other large game across Scandinavia's challenging terrain. Their endurance and tracking abilities proved invaluable.
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 Elkhound
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise routine, and early socialization are essential. Monitor weight and provide mental stimulation through tracking activities.