West Highland White Terrier vs Whippet
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Whippet: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Whippet: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Whippet: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Whippet5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Whippet5/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Whippet3/5
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
Whippet
Heart disease: Cardiac health monitoring
Eye problems: Regular vision checks
Anesthesia sensitivity: Special care needed
Dental issues: Regular cleaning required
Joint problems: Mobility maintenance
Skin allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Whippet
Pros
Gentle and affectionate
Low grooming needs
Quiet and clean
Good with children
Athletic and graceful
Cons
High prey drive
Cannot be off-leash in unsecured areas
Sensitive to cold
Needs regular exercise
Can be stubborn
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!
Whippet Fun Fact
Whippets can reach speeds of up to 35 mph, making them the fastest dog of their size.
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.
Whippet
Origin:
Developed in Victorian England during the 1800s for rabbit hunting and racing. Working-class families valued them for their speed and hunting efficiency in open fields.
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.
Whippet
Requires warm bedding and protection from cold. Secure fencing essential due to prey drive. Gentle handling needed due to sensitive nature.