This small, sturdy breed, the
West Highland White Terrier, has a longish, white
coat, is energetic and a bit self-possessed at
times. However, Westies are usually less
irritable and snappish than some other terriers, and
can be quite friendly. The dogs of the breed like to
dig and bark. Some owners find the Westie makes a
good watchdog.
The West Highland White Terrier will be fine in a
home without a large yard. Most dogs of this breed
are active indoors and will do well with just a
little bit of regular exercise. A Westie will enjoy
being around people and may do well with children if
the children are well behaved and do not torment the
dog. West Highland White Terriers are reasonable
healthy and live a long life.
Temperament
The West Highland White Terrier can have a high
degree of “self-esteem” according to experienced
owners. At the same time, Westies are friendly dogs
and like to have companionship. The dogs of this
breed are known to be good watch dogs too, as they
bark loudly and are self-assured enough not to be
afraid of other dogs.
Westies are strongly built and have an inquisitive
nature. Thus, they will chase small animals but
usually do not cause them injury. The American
Kennel Club recognizes the Westie as being very
alert and even courageous. Extremes of timidity or
aggression are rare and considered faults in the
West Highland White Terrier.
Size and Color
The adult male Westie will stand about 10 inches to
12 inches at the withers and weigh from 15 pounds to
22 pounds. The female of the breed will be about 9
inches to 11 inches tall and weigh from 13 pounds to
16 pounds.
As the name implies, this breed has a white coat
with strands about two inches long. The undercoat is
shorter and softer. The tail is generally about 5
inches to 6 inches long and carried upright. It
should not be docked, according to club guidelines.
Any color other than white is considered a fault.
Some dogs of this breed have a gold or wheat colored
coat and are considered unacceptable as show dogs.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
Frequent brushing is recommended for the straight
strands of the coat. This keeps it distributed
evenly and helps keep the coat oiled properly.
Westies are prone to dry skin problems, so frequent
bathing is discouraged. Extra attention should be
paid to the Westie’s ears, as this breed can develop
wax buildup and minor ear infections.
The West Highland White Terrier is relatively easy
to feed and will develop eating habits quite easily
as it adapts to the family schedule. Although the
Westie is not naturally a one-person dog, it may be
best to have one person in the family be responsible
for determining when the pet will eat, where it will
sleep and so on.
The Westie needs to learn a routine it can live by.
Some purebred dogs develop allergies to cheaper
commercial foods, often because of the high grain
content of these brands. This could be a problem for
the Westie since the breed may be prone to skin
problems and skin irritations.
Exercise Needs
The West Highland White Terrier will do well with
occasional walks on a leash and some time to run a
bit in a protected area. The Westie does not
generally need a lot of exercise and is active
indoors. This may be a good dog for those living in
a rural area as well as for those in the city. But
most Westies do not like to be held for long
periods, as they prefer to move about on their own
indoors and rest apart from others.
West Highland White Terriers were used as hunting
dogs in the early years of the breed, often helping
their master bring home small game such as rabbits
and squirrels. So Westie owners should be prepared
for an active and energetic pet that also tends to
act a bit bigger than its actual size.
