West Highland White Terrier vs Russell Terrier
Breed Compatibility
51% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Russell Terrier/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
Russell Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Lens Luxation: Eye lens dislocation
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Dental Issues: Tooth/gum 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
Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly energetic and playful
Compact size suits various homes
Intelligent and trainable
Low grooming requirements
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
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!
Russell Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Russell Terriers can jump up to five times their own height!
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.
Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control. These small terriers excelled at pursuing quarry underground, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
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.
Russell Terrier
Regular exercise crucial to prevent boredom. Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.