Welcome to your complete guide to the West Highland White Terrier. The wonderful Westie.
Affectionately known as a Westie, the West Highland White Terrier is a small breed of dog from Scotland.
These cute, little dogs are extremely popular both in the UK and USA, where they remain in the top third of all breeds.
But do Westies make a suitable pet?
Here we provide all the information and facts you need about owning a West Highland White Terrier.
Read on to discover if a Westie is the right breed of dog for you.
Westie dog breed
The Westie Terrier is closely related to other Scottish terriers, such as the Cairn, the Scottish and the Dandie Dinmont.
“Terrier” translates from the Latin word terra, meaning earth.
The breed was originally bred as a working terrier, going to ground and digging out prey such as rats, foxes, rabbits and badgers.
The legend is that, during the 19th century, Colonel Malcolm, while hunting with his small brown terriers, accidentally shot his favorite dog after mistaking it for a fox.
He then developed a small breed of white dog who had all the necessary characteristics of a working terrier but couldn’t be mistaken for prey.
The Westie has been known by many names, including the Poltalloch Terrier and the Roseneath Terrier, before being officially recognised as the West Highland White Terrier by the Kennel Club of England in 1906.
The breed was introduced to the USA in 1905 and first shown the following year. The AKC recognised it in 1908.
Westie weight
The Westie size is small but robust with a broad chest, rectangular shaped body along with a waggy carrot-like tail!
Male West Highland White Terriers measure between 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30cm) in height. Weighing approximately 15 to 20 pounds (7 to 10kg).
Females are a little smaller and measure between 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28cm) in height and weigh approximately 13 to 16 pounds (6 to 7kg).
Do Westies shed?
The white coat of a West Highland Terrier is his most distinctive feature and is what distinguishes him from other terriers.
Westies possess a unique double coat. The undercoat is soft and furry whereas the outer one has stiff, coarse hair that measures about two inches in length.
Because the outer coating has a rough texture, mud is easily brushed out, making it easy to keep a Westie clean.
It also provides warmth and protects against cold or wet weather along with possible bites from prey.
And although they are not hypoallergenic dogs, you will notice Westies shedding very little hair, so it won’t be all over your furniture!
However, grooming Westies is very important, and their coats should be brushed at least once a week.
Regular clipping helps to remove dead hair and maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
Some owners prefer to do this themselves with others choosing the services of a professional dog groomer.
Show dog owners use the technique of stripping. This timely process involves plucking the dead hairs from the Westie by using the fingers, resulting in a rough but wavy coat.
Westie Temperament
When it comes to the West Highland temperament, don’t be fooled by their diminutive size and adorable cuteness!
A Westie is a big dog in a small dog’s body and is stronger and tougher than it looks with no shortage of self-esteem.
Exceptionally energetic and intelligent, they are too much of a busy body to be a lap dog, wriggling away after just a few minutes!
Westies require regular exercise and playtime to keep them occupied. Especially if you don’t want to find them digging up your backyard.
The terrier instinct remains, and it is advised not to let a Westie off the leash in any open area. As if they see a small animal to chase, it’s highly likely they will go after it, oblivious to your commands!
However, the Westie possesses a happy disposition endearing him to everyone, including strangers. She is extremely loyal with a strong desire to please.
Westie personality
The West Highland Terrier personality is larger than life itself. They will keep you amused and entertained with their funny ways.
Westies love being around people and do well in a household with older children.
Although it depends on the individual, Westies are not the most suitable dog to have around young children. They should never be left unsupervised.
Don't Forget To Add Your Dog!
They get along with other dogs and cats kept in the home. But it is not recommended to keep small pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs or rabbits. They could be in big danger from your Westie!
Despite their small size, the West Highland White Terrier is brave, strong-minded and independent but considered easier to handle than other Scottish terriers.
They do, though, like to have their way and can be domineering and a little naughty if given a chance.
Westies respond well to positive reinforcement, especially when rewarded with food.
West Highland Terriers do best with an active family who loves the outdoors.
It is possible to keep them in an apartment provided they have plenty of walks and are taken for a run at least twice a week.
Due to their high energy levels and intelligence, the Westie thrives at dog agility and obedience competitions. As well as earth dog tests, tracking and flyball.
Westie barking
A common complaint of Westie owners is barking.
Although they are attentive watch dogs, their yapping can become out of control.
When they were hunters, the Westie Terrier needed a loud bark, so they were heard from underground.
It is important that your Westie is trained correctly from the start. Has plenty of exercise and regularly socialises with other dogs to help kerb his barking habits.
You can find a guide to stopping your dog barking here
Westie health problems
Like many breeds of dogs, West Highland Terriers are susceptible to certain health issues.
Skin allergies causing severe itchiness is especially common in Westies.
One such condition, Atopic Dermatitis, is genetic and affects 25% of Westies aged between 3 months to six years. It cannot be cured and controlled only by special diets and medications.
Another condition believed to be genetic, but not known for certain, is Westie lung disease. Causing serious breathing problems.
Like many small dogs, luxating patella (loose kneecaps), hip dysplasia and other orthopaedic issues are common in West Highland Terriers. As well as digestive disorders such as colitis and pancreatitis.
Other conditions that Westies are prone to include the white shaker dog syndrome. Whereby they tremble uncontrollably, requiring long term medication, along with dry eye, Addison’s disease and aggression.
Before you buy a Westie puppy talk to the breeder about which health tests they have had carried out on the parents. Make sure there is no family history of atopic dermatitis or shaker dog syndrome.
How long do Westies live?
The Westie life expectancy is between 12 and 16 years so you must be prepared for a long-term commitment if you decide this breed of dog is for you.
West Highland Terrier breeders
If you decide that you would like to buy a puppy Westie, then you should look for a breeder with a good reputation.
So how do you find reputable Westie breeders?
One way to choose a breeder is by checking out the websites of the West Highland White Terrier Club of America or the Kennel Club Assured Breeders in the UK.
All members must abide by their club’s principles and meet certain requirements before they can sell West Highland White Terrier puppies.
Otherwise, attend local dog shows to meet breeders or ask your veterinarian to recommend someone.
Avoid breeders that have multiple litters, allow you the choice of any puppy or sell to you at a low price without papers.
Also, steer clear of pet stores as their puppies often come from puppy mills with little regard for bloodlines, health concerns or where the animal ends up.
Westie puppies
Here we give you all the Westie puppies information you need to help choose the right pup for you.
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy
When visiting a reputable breeder, don’t be afraid to ask questions about any concerns you have.
Take note of the environment and if the puppies have been socialised and look healthy.
Breeders watch their Westie terrier puppies over many weeks, discovering each one’s personalities, thus can help find a pet suitable for you and your lifestyle.
Observe the Mother’s demeanour and, if possible, the Father’s too, requesting details and papers about their pedigrees.
Ask the breeder if they have had genetic testing done on the sire and dam to rule out any possible hereditary health conditions.
Good breeders screen potential buyers as well to ensure an ideal home, also requiring the signing of a purchase agreement.
West Highland White Terrier price
When buying from a reputable dealer, the average West Highland Terrier price is between $900 and $1200.
Westie rescue
You may decide that you do not have the necessary time to devote to a puppy so may want to adopt a Westie adult dog instead.
The advantages are that an older dog will have had some training and be less destructive and energetic.
Contact shelters that rescue Westies to find out what they have available.
A West Highland Terrier rescue centre will be honest about any health or behaviour issues and will offer support should you rehome one of their dogs.
Not all their dogs have problems, and many West Highland Terrier rescue cases are simply because an owner had no time or a change in circumstances.
Should I Buy a Westie Puppy?
West Highland White Terriers are great little dogs for active owners who can dedicate plenty of time for exercise and play.
They are most suitable for families with older children.
Make sure you find out all the Westie info you can, buy from a reputable breeder to eliminate possible health problems and begin training as early as possible.
Westies are adorable and will melt your heart if you own one.
References
- Roque, JB et al. Atopic dermatitis in West Highland white terriers is associated with a 1.3Mb region on CFA 17
- Salzmann, CA et al. Genome-wide linkage study of atopic dermatitis in West Highland White Terriers.
Roxann Souci says
I have had four Westies. Duffy died of lymphoma at age 10. Chloe is 16, Henri is 14, and Ollie is 9. Henri has had terrible skin problems that developed only in the last few years. We are working with special foods and allergy meds. He also had to have emergency neurosurgery for a faulty back disk when he was 13. It happened literally overnight. He came out of it brilliantly. Henri and Chloe are slowing down now. Chloe gets cold easily and a bit stiff. We have her on a treatment of CBD to help her arthritis. Ollie is a happy, active boy who loves to make people laugh. We have ordered a new puppy from a litter due in late October from our former breeder. All of our dogs are exceptionally well behaved, have excellent confirmation, do not yap, know all their obedience commands, and are friendly with strangers and affectionate. They are all insane about bunnies and squirrels!
Cheryl says
My male Westie just turned 16. He’s hard of hearing and his eyes are cloudy. I hate seeing him bumping into doors, etc. He still runs and loves to play fetch. I’m wondering if their is anything that can be done to correct his eye sight?
Gloria Tate says
Get trudog food get the raw food r topper . Just go to trudog food it’s helps in all matters
deb says
Your Westie prices are low. Registered, well bred puppies are going for 2000.00 up.
Rich says
My best buddy Mitzi passed away yesterday. How do I find a respectable breeder for a West highland terrier in the near future
Roxann Souci says
Where do you live? I am picking up my second Westie pup from Westie Whispers in Colorado.
Chris9 says
My Westie, Tavish is almost 14. He has the itching like so many other Westie. Was told by my vet early on stay away from chicken & he was been on pills & special shampoo for years. I’ve tried a few other things over the years. But a good diet & his meds help. He has some eye problems now and doesn’t hear as well as he did (or he’s just ignoring me).
But he loves children always has. We always laugh & think he likes their size. And he can be a big lap dog. Definitely likes to cozy up with me. He rarely barks. Mostly at the door bell or one on TV. But I’ve learned to tell him good job and he’ll usually stop.
No one is a stranger. Seems to love everyone if he doesn’t I’m on guard for sure.
Tavish is my best buddy. I received him as a Christmas gift & he’s been the best gift ever.
Love my Tavish.
Brigitte says
I have a Westie her name is Ashley. I got her after someone couldn’t look after her anymore. Six years old and my BFF, the best friend I ever got and the worst mistake giving her up. If they would ask for her back, and I told them the answer is no. She had skin problems dermatitis I found putting paw paw cream on the sores help I recommended to other people it really works.
Cari says
I disagree with Westies not being good with young children, I have found just opposite. Since coat is tough, and stripped for showing — pulling hasn’t been a problem for mine. Their tail has no pain nerves, and is how they are placed on the inspection table, and pulled from burrows while hunting.
While all dogs should not be unsupervised around small children, westies are no more threat than others.
Laura Katherine Robertson says
My West Highland, Holley, was bothered by skin irritation about once a year. A steroid shot was the remedy. She would have been 20 years old in 3 months when she passed in January of 2017. She was my love.
Suz says
Laura, I’m sorry you lost your love, Holly. Her age was amazing…you must have taken great care of her and given her the so much love to live that long. I’m sure she’s waiting for you at the rainbow bridge.
Kate says
I have a westie 5 years old
She was a rescue from a puppy mill.
Her coat and skin were in sad shape when I got her 3 years ago.
I feed grain free fish and sweet potato food.
Stay away from grains even in treats with Westie’s
Her coat is great! No problems
molly says
I have wanted a Westie since I was 6 and my husband and children got me one for my 45th birthday. well my best mate Roland McTavish is now almost 11 and for the past 6 years has sufferend from a terrible skin condtion. prescribed steriods that made it worse, have tried evrything and i do mean everything I have come across from other owners with same problems and everything lasts for about 12 weeks then scratching, biting, blood etc starts all over again. I would like so much to get some help that will not break my bank cos so far my little guy has cost app $25,000 with vets, remedies, injections, special food, raw food, powers, oils, skin cremes, shampoos, you name it I think we have most likely tried it BUT through every itchy moment, every painful antiseptic application this little guy has been amazing. He is the love of my life {husband unfortunately yes is a close 2nd} and I would like to make the last 3rd of his life a bit better. any advise, thoughts, remedies out there I would be very appreciative of cos you never know, one day someone will pass something on and his itching will calm, his fur will grow back {yes he is 3/4 bald} and he will have a wonderful rest of his forever.
Beverly says
Katie is our 2nd Westie. She is 15yrs this month. She has skin problems mainly in the spring. We feed her ground turkey with veggies and a senior vitamin pill. She also gets all grain free dry dog food Rachel Ray and grain free treats. She gets drops in her ears and eyes. She also gets Apoquel twice a day now as the allergies are worse. We were just in Fl so she got started with the allergies early. She is the best pup ever.
Molly says
Thank you, I will definitely give this a go
Janice says
Our dog would bite his paws and pull the hair out of them because they itched so bad. His feet ended up looking like raw chicken. The vet said we needed to change his diet. No store bought food or peanut butter for treats. We buy hypoallergenic dry dog food from our vet. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolized. It has made all the difference in the world. Now his coat is very beautiful and healthy. No more pulling out his hair. We definitely can’t give him chicken because he throws up every single time. So we are just very careful about his food and treats.
Nicole du Toit says
The only thing that has worked for my boys severe skin troubles is eating Royal Canin Skin support food – it creates a protective barrier too. It’s fantastic. We donyuse anything else anymore.
Dave says
Try filtered water , sometimes there is chemicals even in tap water ! Skyler was chewing her feet RAW and I started filtering her water thru a Brita filtering system and tgey cleared up ! You will have to give it some time but it worked for us ! Good luck !
Molly says
We are very fortunate to have water straight off the mountain but still willing to try filtering it because I will try everything to help my little mate
Marianne says
Could your westie have a food allergy. I would try Hill’s z/d low allergen dog food. And no other food. My dear Westie Jamey had several allergies and in the hospital they recommended this food. Or maybe try an exclusive diet with potatoes and horse meat, also available in packages.
Could the problem be caused by bacterias, a bacterial skin infection which would have to be treated with antibiotics and special antiseptic baths. This isn’t too complicated to diagnose, just a little scab from the skin and under the microscope.
All the best to you and your dear Westie.
Molly says
He was on hills vet prescription dog food and as with all other foods we tried, skin calmed for about 12 weeks then itching, biting pulling fur and skin off started again. He has had Apoquel and it helped, might be time to go back on it permanently.
Gosia says
My Westi also had the same condition and she is ok now. I switched her food to raw and switched her shampoo to botanical. Email me and I can tell you more details. Would love to help if I can.
DV says
My westie has allergies and skin problems since he was 3. His vet predicted it the first day he saw it as a puppy. Unfortunately many if not most westies have severe allergies. Now he takes serum shots every week, plus some Apoquel to keep him from itching. Changing foods did not help. Tests showed he’s allergic to grass, polen, insects, dust and wool. He prefers to stay inside all summer. At first sign of itching, he gets an steroid shot to keep skins and ear infections away.
Mike says
Molly, Try Rock Sulphur. It cleared up my Jock’s skin problem.
Romana says
Hi Molly, My Westie Lily had the same issue & I tried all the lotions, potions & steroid injections/tablets, shampoos & conditioners – nothing worked for her. Then I removed all grains from her diet. Grain free kibble & then I removed rice from their dinner – they now have 1/4 pumpkin, 3-4 sweet potatoe, 500mg mixed vegetables all boiled in a big pot then puréed it in the blender (so the don’t miss the veggies) & I just boil 1kg of mince & mix it all together! I have three westies who hoover it up & it lasts them three dinners. Results have been amazing! No more itching for Lily, more energy, thicker & glossier coat – she’s a changed Westie & so much happier! All three of them have benefited – their coats look amazing. I just wish I had tried it years ago! Hope your westie’s better soon!
June Arnold says
I. Now have a very healthy Westie named Sunshine who is the love of my life.He’s now 7 years old but had a bad case of itchy red skin disease when he was just a year old. Nothing the. Vets gave me helped and Cortisone was the absolute worst. So, I put him on grain free salmon & potatoe kibble and for the rash I used baby diaper cream( zinc oxide) put a little T shirt on him and today I have a happy little guy who is very healthy with no rash. I hope this works for. You.
Regards, June
Cheryl Jones says
My Seamus was a white Westland terrier. He was 10 when I lost him to lymph sarcoma. Miss him so much. I was so blessed to have him for the short time. This is my favorite breed.
Jim Graham says
My Westie ” Duffy ” is 15 and his birthday is August10 when he will be 16. He has trouble going for his walks but he will not let me leave him when I walk our 8 year Cairn. He has some skin problems but our vet gave us some pills for it and ” the Duffster is a lot better.
We are looking for either another Westie or another Cairn. I have had a dog since I was 7 and would hate to loose Duffy with a replacement.
Emily McCurdy says
Go to the website WROC which is Westie Rescue of Orange County. We got our rescue “Angus” from them. Check out the section titled The Westie Diet”, specifically the recipe for Highlander Hash. We feed this to Angus along with Blue brown rice and lamb kibble. He has absolutely beautiful fur and skin. Has no problems with itching or anything. He loves the hash, too. It is amazing how beautiful his skin is. Give it a try!
Molly says
Thank you I will definitely check this out
Suz says
I second WROC! Great organization.
Stacey Shields says
I have a westie sasha she’s five got her last year didn’t know how to sit /lye down and she’s my best friend and just repeating myself over n over no treats as she wo t eat them out side so when we get home she gets her biscuit I’m very lucky she’s not a barker only wen she see big black dogs she goes mental I’m like sorry l but Sasha is very clever and am sure she know what a
Am sayin xx
A benbow says
I have a westie called jaggsy. He is a barker but I love him to bits as long as he gets a good run chasing the ball he’s ok
Jacqueline Murray says
I have a Westie rescue dog, he’s 10 and he’s great. I love him so much, we walk daily , he’s a great companion, full of life and he’s spoilt. He has his problems etc, but we get over them. So glad we found each other.