West Highland White Terrier vs Old English Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Old English Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Old English Sheepdog: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Old English Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Old English Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
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
Old English Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: PRA and cataracts
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
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
Old English Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming requirements
Can be stubborn
Requires significant 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!
Old English Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat earned them the nickname 'Bobtail,' despite actually having a naturally long tail!
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.
Old English Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in western England during the 1800s, these dogs expertly drove cattle and sheep to market across the countryside, earning their reputation as skilled herding companions.
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.
Old English Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions essential to prevent matting. Needs consistent exercise routine and early socialization. Monitor for signs of overheating in warm weather.