West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier originated in Scotland and shares ancestry with other Scottish terriers such as the Cairn Terrier and Scottish Terrier. Bred for hunting foxes, badgers, and other small game, the Westie’s distinctive white coat made them easily visible in the field. Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch is credited with refining the breed in the late 1800s after selecting only white-coated dogs for breeding. Recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1907 and the American Kennel Club in 1908, the Westie has since become one of the world’s most beloved small terriers.

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A small, sturdy terrier with a bright white coat and alert expression.

• Weight: 15–20 lbs (male & female)
• Height: 10–11 in (male & female)
• Coat Type: Double coat with a soft undercoat and harsh, straight outer coat
• Coat Colors: Always white
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Dark, almond-shaped eyes; erect ears; compact build; carrot-shaped tail

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Westies require regular grooming to maintain their crisp coat and neat appearance.

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week to prevent matting
• Hand-Stripping: Every few months to maintain coat texture (especially for show dogs)
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed
• Ear Cleaning: Weekly to prevent wax buildup and infection
• Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks
• Shedding: Low to moderate

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Active and curious, Westies need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

• Daily Exercise: 30–45 minutes of walking, play, or interactive games
• Ideal Activities: Walks, fetch, agility, scent games
• Suitability: Well-suited for apartments or houses with yards

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Smart and eager to learn, but with a touch of terrier stubbornness.

• Training Style: Positive reinforcement with firm, consistent rules
• Socialization: Early socialization helps prevent excessive barking and bossiness
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, trick training, and scent work
• Challenge Level: Low to moderate—trainable but independent at times

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A balanced diet supports their energy and coat health.

• Food Type: High-quality small-breed kibble or fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: 1–1.5 cups split into two meals
• Feeding Schedule: Twice daily
• Diet Tips: Monitor weight to prevent obesity; include omega fatty acids for skin and coat health

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Westies are widely available through breeders and rescues.

• Breeders: Choose CKC-registered breeders who conduct health screenings
• Adoption: Check terrier-specific and small-dog rescues
• Canadian Resources: West Highland White Terrier Club of Canada, Canadian Kennel Club breeder listings

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Generally healthy but prone to certain breed-specific issues.

• Common Issues: Atopic dermatitis (skin allergies), luxating patella, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, cataracts
• Life Expectancy: 12–16 years
• Health Testing: Patella evaluation, eye exams, and skin health monitoring recommended

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Are Westies good family dogs?
Yes, they are affectionate, playful, and generally good with respectful children.

Do Westies bark a lot?
They can be vocal watchdogs but respond well to training.

Do Westies shed?
Yes, but minimally compared to many other breeds.

Are Westies easy to train?
Yes, they are intelligent but require consistent guidance.

Do they get along with other pets?
Generally yes, though they may chase smaller animals due to prey drive.

Are they hypoallergenic?
No, but their low-shedding coat may be more manageable for allergy sufferers.

How much grooming do they need?
Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping are essential.