West Highland White Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Cataracts: Progressive eye cloudiness
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint deformity
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Allergies: Skin sensitivities common
Heart murmurs: Cardiac irregularities
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdogs
Low shedding coat
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
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!
Wire Fox Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!
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.
Wire Fox Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in England during the 1800s, these skilled hunters excelled at flushing foxes from their dens, working alongside mounted hunting parties in pursuit of game.
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.
Wire Fox Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.