West Highland White Terrier vs Scottish Deerhound
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Scottish Deerhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Scottish Deerhound: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Scottish Deerhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Scottish Deerhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Scottish Deerhound5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Scottish Deerhound3/5
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
Scottish Deerhound
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer risk
Liver shunt: Blood flow issue
Eye problems: Vision 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
Scottish Deerhound
Pros
Gentle and dignified temperament
Low barking tendency
Good with other dogs
Minimal grooming needs
Cons
Requires large living space
High exercise needs
Short lifespan
Strong prey drive
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!
Scottish Deerhound Fun Fact
Scottish Deerhounds can reach speeds of up to 30 mph and were once so prized that no one below an earl's rank could own one.
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.
Scottish Deerhound
Origin:
During medieval times in the Scottish Highlands, these noble hounds served as royal hunting companions, pursuing red deer across rugged terrain. Their exceptional speed and size made them ideal for this purpose.
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.
Scottish Deerhound
Secure fencing is essential due to prey drive. Regular exercise is crucial but should be moderate in puppies to protect growing joints. Health monitoring is important.