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The West Highland White
Terrier was established as a separate breed in the
1800s, after a breeder of Cairn Terriers found that
he had some white puppies in a litter. With
selective breeding, the West Highland White Terrier
developed as a separate breed. The Westie has some
of the same characteristics and temperament as
Cairns and other terriers, but is generally not as
“snappish”, as some are. The West Highland White
Terrier can be a wonderful companion, though the
breed may be a bit willful and strong-headed at
times. We have put together 10 common questions
about the breed with answers for each.
1. What is the
history and background of the West Highland White
Terrier?
The West Highland White Terrier is a white Cairn
Terrier, developed by selective breeding from dogs
producing white pups and from white Cairns. As with
the Cairn, the Westie was used for controlling rats
and other small animals on Scottish farms. The West
Highland White Terrier has become popular as a
companion dog and pet in the U.S.
2. What is the size and color of the West
Highland White Terrier?
The male of the breed will be about 10 to 12 inches
tall when grown, while the female will be an inch or
so shorter. The medium ranges of height are
considered ideal for clubs and shows. Adult Westies
will weigh about 15 pounds to 22 pounds (male) and
13 pounds to 16 pounds (female). The name implies
that this is a white terrier only. The American
Kennel Club considers any golden or wheaten color to
be a fault.
3. Is the Westie good with children?
In general, yes, but only if the children are well
behaved. As with many terriers, the West Highland
White Terrier can be a bit willful and may snap at
children if irritated. Good socialization with a top
breeder is important for young terriers. A calm
atmosphere in the home will also help your new pet
fit in. Most Westies are playful and energetic and
will like being around people.
4. Is the West Highland White Terrier an inside
dog or outside dog?
This question can be answered simply: The Westie,
like many terriers and other small dogs, should
never be left tied outside for long periods. This
makes them a target for larger dogs. A West Highland
White Terrier will do best indoors, with occasional
exercise in a fenced yard or with walks on a leash.
Terriers tend to chase smaller animals by nature, so
your Westie should remain under your control at all
times.
5. I have thought about a dog from a rescue
organization, is this a good idea?
With Westies and many other purebred dogs, a
wonderful companion is often available from a rescue
or shelter. Adult dogs, as well as dogs having
already been in another home, come with unique
challenges. It is best to talk with the
rescue/shelter staff and make sure that your
situation fits with the dog you are considering.
Remember that it may take some time to overcome some
behavior patterns and habits the dog developed with
its first owner. However, pets from a rescue
organization often make wonderful, loyal companions.
6. What is the best way to house train a Westie?
Everyone has a preferred method, but it is true that
most successful ways to housebreak or house train a
dog involve patience and a consistent way of working
with the pet. We recommend crate training as a way
to give the dog a safe place to go to and a “den”
that the pet will naturally want to keep clean.
Combine this with consistent and frequent trips
outdoors or to paper train and the Westie will often
learn quickly. Taking the dog outside early in the
morning and before retiring for the night is very
important as well.
7. What health problems should I look for?
West Highland White Terriers and some other terriers
are prone to skin problems, including very dry skin
and skin irritations. This is something you should
discuss with the breeder and the veterinarian so you
can watch for symptoms. There are treatments,
including antihistamines and cortisone treatments to
help with this condition. Smaller dogs such as the
Westie may also develop a hip condition called
Perthes disease. You should discuss this thoroughly
with the breeder before purchasing any new puppy.
8. Does the Westie need special grooming?
Several Westie clubs provide good guidelines for
grooming this breed. The outer coat is not extremely
long, but hangs rather straight. The undercoat is
softer and thick. A regular brushing is recommended
to keep the coat in good order. A West Highland
White Terrier should not be bathed too frequently
because of the tendency to skin problems. Trimming
is usually recommended around the ears, to shape the
head and with the growth of the coat.
9. What should I feed my Westie?
As with many purebred dogs, allergies and other
minor problems may develop with consistent,
long-term feeding of cheaper commercial foods. It
seems some dogs are allergic to the high grain
content of these foods. A better quality of
commercial food is recommended. Owners have found
that feeding fresh meats and some vegetables is also
a good diet. Consult with your breeder and
veterinarian to determine a specific diet for your
pet. You may be able to continue the diet started
with the breeder.
10. Is the West Highland White Terrier a good
show dog?
Westies can be good as a show dog or even an
obedience trial dog, but both require some patient
and consistent training from the early days of the
dog’s life. Special attention must be paid to the
appearance and temperament with show dogs, so
choosing a puppy from a breeder of show dogs is
critical. Westies can also be very good as therapy
dogs and with obedience work, but again it takes
special training and a great deal of time and
patience to develop a top animal in these areas.
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