West Highland White Terrier Breed Guide
Also known as: Westie, WHWT, West Highland Terrier
White Scottish terriers, West Highland White Terriers are confident, friendly dogs whose sturdy build and cheerful nature suit those wanting spirited companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small
Weight
6-10 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Small
Weight
6-10 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About West Highland White Terriers
The West Highland White Terrier originated in Scotland during the 19th century, developed from various Scottish terrier breeds to create a white-coated terrier suitable for hunting vermin in the rugged Scottish Highlands. The white coat was specifically selected to distinguish them from their prey.
West Highland White Terriers are small, compact dogs with double white coats and distinctive dark eyes and noses. They're known for their confident, friendly personalities and their characteristic carrot tail.
These dogs are intelligent, independent, and make excellent family pets for those who appreciate terrier character. They're generally good with children but may be reserved with strangers. They require moderate exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviours. Their coats need regular grooming to maintain their appearance. While generally healthy, potential concerns include skin allergies, luxating patella, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation helps manage their natural terrier instincts around other small pets.
Complete Care Guide for West Highland White Terriers
Expert advice on keeping your West Highland White Terrier healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your West Highland White Terrier requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs. These spirited terriers thrive on high-quality proteins combined with healthy fats and digestible carbohydrates, which support their boundless energy and distinctive white coat. Essential vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in maintaining their overall health and vitality.
Weight management stands as a primary consideration, as West Highland White Terriers can easily gain excess weight without proper portion control. Establishing consistent feeding schedules and measuring portions helps prevent obesity-related health issues. Their diet should emphasise highly digestible ingredients while maintaining appropriate fat levels to support their active lifestyle without contributing to weight gain.
Special attention must be paid to nutrients that support skin and coat health, particularly omega fatty acids, B vitamins, and essential amino acids. These components help maintain their characteristic rough coat while addressing their tendency toward sensitive skin conditions.
Important dietary guidelines include:
Avoiding human food and fatty treats Using portion-controlled healthy treats for training Ensuring fresh water availability at all times Monitoring food intake and adjusting portions based on activity level
How healthy is your West Highland White Terrier?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about West Highland White Terriers from our community of pet parents
West Highland White Terriers, affectionately known as Westies, are known for their spirited, energetic and friendly temperament. They are self-confident, tenacious and can be stubborn at times, but they also have a playful and affectionate side. They are intelligent dogs that can be trained easily with the right approach. Despite their small size, Westies are brave dogs who make excellent watchdogs.
Dog Breeds Similar to West Highland White Terrier
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