Affectionately known as a Westie dog, the West Highland White Terrier is a small breed of dog from Scotland.
Measuring an average of 11 inches with a weight of 20 pounds or less, the Westie is a small but robust breed.
They are loyal, fun-loving dogs with heaps of energy. Best suited to families with older children, the Westie dog will soon become your best friend.
What’s In This Guide
Westie FAQs
Here are our readers’ most popular and frequently asked questions about the Westie.
- Are Westies aggressive?
- What health problems do Westies have?
- Do West Highland White Terriers bark a lot?
- Do Westies need to be groomed?
Here’s some important info you should know about the West Highland White Terrier.
Breed At A Glance
- Popularity: Among top third of breeds in US and UK
- Purpose: Companionship, show dogs
- Weight: 15-20 lbs.
- Temperament: Energetic, fun-loving, loyal
Welcome to your complete guide to the West Highland White Terrier.
These cute little dogs are extremely popular both in the UK and USA, where they remain in the top third of all breeds.
Here we provide all the information and facts you need before bringing home a West Highland Terrier.
Use the links below to find the Westie information that you need.
Westie Breed Review: Contents
- History and original purpose of the Westie
- Fun facts about Westie
- Westie appearance
- Westie temperament
- Training and exercising your Westie
- Westie health and care
- Do Westies make good family pets?
- Rescuing a Westie
- Finding a Westie puppy
- Raising a Westie puppy
- Popular Westie breed mixes
- Westie products and accessories
So where did this fun little dog come from? Read on to find out more about its origins.
History and Original Purpose of the Westie
The Westie Terrier is closely related to other terriers, such as the Cairn, Scottish and Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
“Terrier” translates from the Latin word terra, meaning earth.
This name could come from the breed’s original purpose. It was once bred as a working terrier, for digging out prey such as rats, foxes, rabbits and badgers.
The legend is that, during the 19th century, Colonel Malcolm accidentally shot his small brown terrier while hunting after mistaking it for a fox.
As a result, he developed a small breed of white dog who had all the necessary characteristics of a working terrier but couldn’t be mistaken for prey.
Since then, the Westie has been known by many names, including the Poltalloch Terrier and the Roseneath Terrier.
However, it was 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.
So what other fun information should we know about this lovely breed?
Fun Facts about Westie
Famous actors such as Scarlett Johansson, Whoopi Goldberg and Matthew McConaughey have all been photographed with adorable Westies.
So why so popular? It might have something to do with their adorable appearance.
Westie Appearance
The Westie dog is small but robust with a broad chest, rectangular shaped body and a waggy carrot-like tail!
Male West Highland White Terriers measure between 10 and 12 inches tall and weigh approximately 15 to 20 pounds.
Females, on the other hand, are a little smaller. They measure between 9 and 11 inches tall and weigh approximately 13 to 16 pounds.
In addition to a distinctive build, the Westie Terrier has a notable white coat that distinguishes him from other terriers.
Also, 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 as well as possible bites from prey.
And although they are not hypoallergenic dogs, you will notice that Westies shed very little hair.
So, let’s look at the Westie’s temperament to see if this breed is right for your home.
Westie Temperament
When it comes to the West Highland’s 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.
For starters, they are exceptionally energetic and intelligent; they are too much of a busy body to be a lap dog, wriggling away after just a few minutes!
However, the Westie possesses a happy disposition endearing him to everyone, including strangers.
They are extremely loyal with a strong desire to please.
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.
However, Westies are not the most suitable dog to have around young children. They should never be left unsupervised.
Tail pulling, sudden jerks or movements and noisy, boisterous children running through a house can bring out the Westie’s inherent traits. This could cause them to chase after or even nip a small child.
They get along with other dogs and cats 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 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.
However, proper training and exercise are paramount for a happy, well-behaved dog.
Training and Exercising your Westie
Exercise
Westies require regular exercise and playtime to keep them occupied. This is especially important if you don’t want to find them digging up your backyard.
It is possible to keep a Westie Terrier in an apartment provided they have plenty of walks and are taken for a run at least twice a week.
Furthermore, the terrier instinct remains, so we don’t recommend letting a Westie off leash in any open area. This is because if they see a small animal to chase, it’s highly likely they will go after it, oblivious to your commands!
Training
Due to their high energy levels and intelligence, the Westie thrives at dog agility and obedience competitions. Also, they score well on earth dog tests, tracking and flyball.
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 to be heard from underground.
It is important that your Westie is trained correctly from the start. For example, he will need plenty of early socialization with other dogs to help kerb his barking habits.
You can find a guide to stopping your dog barking here. You may also be interested in our guides on how to stop digging and biting.
The Happy Cat Handbook - A unique guide to understanding and enjoying your cat!
Early socialization will also help with any behavioral problems around strangers and will get your Westie dog used to being around new people.
As with most purebred dogs, the Westie is prone to some health concerns that should also be considered if you are planning to buy one.
Westie Health and Care
Care
Grooming Westies is very important, and their coats should be brushed at least once a week.
Additionally, regular clipping helps to remove dead hair and maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
Some owners prefer to do this themselves with others choosing to pay for 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.
Health
There is some controversy surrounding purebred vs mutt health. However, in general, purebred dogs can inherit some frightening complications or be prone to certain illnesses as a result of a very small gene pool. The Westie is no exception.
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 three months and six years. Unfortunately, it cannot be cured. However, it can be controlled by special diets and medications.
Another condition believed to be genetic, but not known for certain, is Westie lung disease. This condition causes serious breathing problems.
Like many small dogs, luxating patella (loose kneecaps), hip dysplasia and other orthopaedic issues are common in West Highland Terriers. So are digestive disorders such as colitis and pancreatitis.
Other conditions that Westies are prone to include the white shaker dog syndrome. This is where they tremble uncontrollably, requiring long term medication. They can also suffer from 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.
Lifespan
On a happier note, the Westie Terrier has one of the longest life expectancies among purebred dogs. They live on average 13.5 years.
For this reason, your family must be prepared for a long-term commitment if you decide this breed of dog is for you.
Do Westies Make Good Family Pets?
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. As mentioned above, they may snap or chase small children if aggravated or in the midst of a lot of commotion.
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.
You will also find it very rewarding to adopt a Westie in need of a home.
Rescuing a Westie
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.
Start by contacting shelters that rescue Westies to find out what they have available. You can find a list of rescue societies and shelters here.
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.
If you do decide that you’d rather raise a Westie from puppy through adulthood, then make sure you do your research first to avoid puppy mills.
Finding a Westie Puppy
If you decide that you would like to buy a puppy, 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 Terrier puppies.
Otherwise, attend local dog shows to meet breeders or ask your veterinarian to recommend someone.
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy 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.
When visiting a reputable breeder, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Take note of the environment and if the puppies have been socialized and look healthy.
Observe the Mother’s demeanour and, if possible, the Father’s too. Additionally, request details and papers about their pedigrees.
Finally, 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. They may also require you to sign a purchase agreement.
The average West Highland Terrier price is between $900 and $1200.
However, this is not the only expense you will incur while raising your puppy.
Raising a Westie Puppy
As outlined previously, the Westie dog is prone to some dangerous health problems. Of course, you don’t want your new puppy to suffer or go through unnecessary discomfort.
For this reason, you should take your new puppy for regular veterinary checkups. It’s also wise to invest in some pet insurance, especially if your puppy’s parents don’t have a clean bill of health.
Apart from expenses, there are many other factors to raising a Westie puppy.
Take a look at our puppy guides to get off to the best start with your new Westie Terrier friend.
If you’re in doubt about bringing home a Westie pup, you should consider a crossbreed instead.
Popular Westie Breed Mixes
Check out these beautiful Westie cross breeds if you like some of the Westie’s traits. The Westiepoo – a Poodle West Highland White Terrier mix – is a particular favorite!
Comparing this breed with others will also help you make up your mind.
Comparing the Westie with Other Breeds
There are quite a few terrier breeds to choose from, so make sure to take a look at our comparison of all the different terrier breeds. The Westie might just win your heart!
If you know for sure that a terrier is not for you, then consider some other similar small breeds instead.
Similar Breeds
- Corgipoo – the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Poodle mix
- Shih Tzu
- Miniature Poodle
- Chihuahua
- Miniature Schnauzer
As with every breed, there are pros and cons to getting a Westie dog.
Pros And Cons of Getting A Westie
Cons
- Not suitable for a family with small kids
- Prone to serious health concerns
- Need lots of exercise
Pros
- Loyal and loving
- Easy to train
- Can live in small apartments
Make sure you stock up on some essential items before you welcome your new West Highland Terrier home.
Westie Products and Accessories
- Shampoo for Westies
- Indoor puppy playpens
- Doggie ramps for cars and beds
- Small dog beds
- Best leashes
Don’t forget, we’ve put together a list of rescue centers if you’ve decided that Westie rescue is for you!
Westie Breed Rescues
USA
UK
Australia
Canada
Have you welcomed a Westie rescue into your home? Leave a comment to let us know if you are thinking of adopting a rescue Westie or if you have your heart set on a cute puppy.
References And Resources
- Roque JB, et al. “Atopic dermatitis in West Highland white terriers is associated with a 1.3-Mb region on CFA 17.” Immunogenetics. 2012.
- Salzmann CA, et al. “Genome-wide linkage study of atopic dermatitis in West Highland White Terriers.” BMC Genetics. 2011.
- O’Neill, et al. “Longevity and Mortality of Dogs Owned In England.” The Veterinary Journal. 2013.
- “Kennel Club Assured Breeders for West Highland White Terrier.” The Kennel Club. 2019.
- American Kennel Club. “West Highland White Terrier.” AKC Website. 2019.
- Web JA. “Chronic idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in a West Highland white terrier.” Canadian Veterinary Journal. 2002.
- ASSISI. “The 5 most common health problems for a West Highland White Terrier.” ASSISI Animal Health. 2012.
- Middleton RP, et al. “Metabolic Differences between Dogs of Different Body Sizes.” Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. 2017.
- Blackwell EJ, et al. “The relationship between training methods and the occurrence of behavior problems, as reported by owners, in a population of domestic dogs.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2008.
Michelle says
I would love to locate a reputable breeder. I live in the Northeast and am willing to travel anywhere to pick up a puppy with AKC papers and history of paper breeding/good genetics. I am working through the breeder list on the Westie Club of America site. Thank you!
Nick says
Hi
Would you know of, or can recommend a breeder who specialises in larger Westies. We currently have a 12 year old male who measures nearly 14″ to his shoulders and weighs in at a very healthy 15kg and a typical size female of 18 years. Our little girl is sadly going down hill and we would like to find a companion for our boy to teach all his tricks. We love having the larger dog and would like to find a similar size friend for him.
Letitia says
I have two westies a boy and girl. Both have Addison disease. Gets once a month injection for there Addison. My boy chance has skin,allergies and I check out the orange county website and have been trying the medicated bathing. So far it’s working only been a week. My next step is to try the recipes for for my westies.
I love my westies
Dawn says
Hi, I know this is an old question on here, but I just wanted to say that I have raised Westies myself and after my last one I said, no more. However, I have recently taken 2 sisters on, from a puppy farm, I think they could have only been 5/6 weeks if that, black stomach skin and in a state. I am pleased to say though 6 months later, we have cured all of that, and I did with one of my others some years ago who had that complaint. I have always feed my dogs, yogurt, greek full fat, now if you try this on your westie, if they dont like the taste, then add a little double cream in with a couple of spoonfuls.
Also I add Apple cider vinegar to their water everyday, and when they are washed in the shower Apple cider vinegar is always in the rinse, plus I always use either puppy or baby shampoo . See how you go if you want to try it, hope it helps best regards Dawn x
MoonWindDancer says
I have a sweet, wonderful Westie, Keesha, who will be 14 this july. She’s my best friend and my lifesaver. Literally.
I have depression, and about a year after I got her, I was at my lowest. I was sitting on my bed, holding my husband’s .9mm pistol, contemplating ending it all.
Suddenly, I felt a tap on my leg. It was Keesha, just looking at me with such sad eyes.
I looked to her, then to the gun, and knew I couldn’t leave this world, and leave my furbaby.
I put down the gun, picked up the phone, and called my doctor, who scheduled me for treatment right away.
Then, I gave my little savior the longest hug, her fur drying my tears.
Cynthia says
Greetings , I just lost the love of my life, my little westie, Nevaeh. I lost her just last week and I am just devastated. I lost her to westie lung disease.
I want to warn anyone with a westie that if you ever notice any coughing, take them in at once and dont just get medication, even if it goes away, its a very sneaky disease. Make sure you have xrays and MRI done. This is the worst thing possible for a westie to get. Our baby was diagnosed early, and we made her as comfortable as possible near the end, but it was horrible. we tried everything and nothing worked. She suffered with this for 6 months, we did get the cough under control, but in the last 3 months it was hard for her to breath.Also, if your westie does pass from this horrible disease make sure you let your breeder know. And, if possible donate their body to the science of westie lung disease, so that we can find a cure for this life taking disease.
Our baby would have been 14 next week. She was so smart and loving, she was by my side thru my Cancer, and never left my side. She will be missed so very much.
Bailey says
We just lost our Westie “Happy” this week 02-25-19.He had went blind and after several visits to the vet with not much improvement.My wife thought he was snoring but it was the death rattle Happy passed at 19:15 or 7:15 PM he was such a sweetie
Miss the little guy being under our feet and helping my wife when she cooked.HE WAS A rescue not sure how old he was, he came to us in Feb. of 2011 and left us in Feb.2019.He is much missed.
Rita says
My westie is 14 and has really bad allergies. He gets allergy shots but they just came out with a shot for itchiness. It’s called cytopoint it lasts for about 12 weeks it costs 60.00 and the vet tech can give it so you don’t have to pay for an office visit. This is absolutely amazing. He has no itching at all for 3 months.
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.
Amanda says
It varies by location.
Wendy Allan says
You are correct. Ever since Cesar won the Westminister dog show the price has gone up astronomically. Westie Puppy mills are everywhere.
A reg.dog in WA State of good quality is $2,500.00. A family friendly non show dog is $1,800.00 – $2,000.00
A puppy mill dog is pulling in $750.00.
To own a Westie where I live (west coast Seattle area) is a pride of ownership thing . Look what I’ve got. They are stolen readily even when chipped and leashed. Very valuable breed. Be careful with you furry friend.
Tessa says
I bought a family dog, registered (all the pap work), family blood line, from a great family breeder for under $1500.00. It depends where you are at. I think breeders are getting greedy. If you just want a family pet why do you need to spend thousands of dollars. You need to find a breeder who does it for the love of the breed & not in it to make tons of $$$. We went back and bought another now on our third. My dog has no issues.
Lyn says
Hi Tessa,
Where do you live? Very interested in your breeder to purchase another Westies
Lyn
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.
colleen says
Hello! I just got a Westie a few days ago. I don’t want to jinx myself, but it seems most Westies suffer from allergies affecting their skin. Could you tell me the special shampoo you use?. Even at 8 weeks, he seems to scratch and chew a particular area. Thank You!
Wendy Allan says
Oatmeal dog shampoo from Walmart. $4.00 approximately.
Lasts a very long time, smells nice keeps the coat white without chemicals.
Hope this helps.
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.
CHERIE says
We lost our sweet Westie Lulabelles in September 2019. We are still grieving. She was 13 years, 3 months old when she passed away. I feel your loss but wonder what you fed your Westie that lived to be 20? I feel terrible our Lulabelles did not live longer .
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
Wendy Allan says
I’ve had 6 Westies and there are two reasons for skin Problems.
Food. No wheat, soy, corn, treats etc.. ever! limited ingredients dog food is very good. Make your own food. It’s easy. Make lots and freeze small amounts in zip locks. Many recipes on line.
Only oatmeal shampoo. Walmart has it. Only once in a while. If dog gets super dirty, just shower with warm / cool water.
Environmental. Do you use Fabreeze or room smelly stufff. Sprays, rug cleaners, fragrances in your laundry. All these will drive your Westie nuts. Especially Fabreeze in any form. Hope this helps.
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.