West Highland White Terrier: Breed Guide for Westie Adopters

Overview

The Westie comes from Scotland, where related terriers were used to clear farms and the countryside of rodents, fox, badger and other small mammals. The AKC places the breed in its Terrier Group.

History

The United Kennel Club says the Westie developed from the early vermin-catching terriers of Scotland and is thought to have originally been part of the Cairn breed. The AKC lists its recognition year as 1908, while the UKC recognized the breed in 1919.

How big is this small white terrier?

The AKC puts the West Highland White Terrier in its small size category, and white is the only acceptable color in the UKC standard. The AKC gives a height of 11 inches for males and 10 inches for females, while the UKC calls the ideal height approximately 11 inches. The AKC lists a weight of 15-20 pounds.

West Highland White Terrier temperament

The AKC describes Westie temperament as loyal, happy and entertaining. VCA Animal Hospitals calls the breed bold, watchful, busy and often mischievous, and says most get along well with other dogs although some can be scrappy. Some Westies tend to bark a lot, and VCA suggests discouraging this from an early age.

VCA says most get along with other household pets, except for rodents.

Exercise needs

According to VCA, a Westie's exercise needs can be met with a walk or short run and a lively game, and the dog also benefits from time to explore and sniff, whether in a secure area or on a leash. Because the breed's hunting instinct can lead it to wander off, recall may be unreliable.

Do Westies shed, and how much grooming do they need?

The AKC lists the coat as medium and double, and the UKC standard calls a double coat a necessity. VCA recommends combing two or three times weekly and shaping the coat every three months to keep the breed's distinctive look. VCA notes that show dogs must have their coat plucked and stripped, while clipping is preferred for pet dogs.

Training

VCA describes Westies as independent and somewhat stubborn, doing best with reward-based training involving food or games. They learn quickly but bore quickly and may come up with their own ideas.

How long do Westies live, and how can you plan for their weight and diet?

The AKC gives a general life expectancy of 13-15 years for the breed. VCA says Westies tend to stay in good weight or be slightly overweight, and some may need a special diet because of allergies or liver problems, so ask your veterinarian.

Considering Westie rescue or West Highland terrier rescue

If you are looking at West Highland White Terrier rescue, ask the organization that cares for the dog about its history with other dogs and with small pets. Ask too how it responds to recall and to training, since the breed tends to wander off hunting.