West Highland White Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
West Highland White Terriers originate from the Cairn Terrier in Scotland. Although small, they are big on personality and are excellent travel companions.
West Highland White Terrier
- AKC Group: Terrier
- Weight: 13–22 lbs.
- Height: 9–11 in.
- Life Span: 13–15 years
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Key Characteristics
The West Highland White Terrier, often referred to as the Westie, is a small, strongly built dog and one of the most popular terriers. They have black noses and almond-shaped, wide-set, black-rimmed dark brown eyes and ears that are triangular and stand erect. The tail is tapered and often referred to as carrot-shaped.
Westies have double coats. The outer coat is 2 inches long and straight and hard, and the undercoat is soft. The only coat color for this breed is white, hence the breed name.
Where They Came From
Westies originate from Poltalloch, Scotland. A Cairn Terrier had a few white puppies appear in a litter, and a Scottish breeder whelped them.
One myth about the dogs traces back to a Scottish hunter. It is believed that his colored terrier appeared from a hidden area, was mistaken for a fox and was shot by the hunter. Since then the hunter only wanted white terriers so they would be easier to recognize in the field.
The puppies were bred to create the West Highland White Terrier, although they are technically white Cairn Terriers. The dogs first appeared as Westies at the Crufts Dog Show in London in 1907. The dogs appeared in the United States of America in 1906, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1908.
How Friendly Are They?
Westies are happy and entertaining dogs; they make excellent travel companions. They are easy to train and get along with strangers, children and other dogs (although they may chase cats and smaller animals because of their prey drive). They make good watchdogs but like to dig and bark.
Westies are willful little dogs and need training and leadership to prevent negative behaviors, such as biting and guarding. Proper training and leadership will also help prevent the dog from developing small dog syndrome.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
MEDIUM: This breed is very active indoors, so daily walks and play should satisfy their exercise needs. They can do well in apartments because of their small size and activity level. Because of their high prey drive, Westies should be exercised while leashed or in a secure or enclosed area.
Grooming Needs
MEDIUM: This breed sheds minimally, if at all. They should be brushed regularly to keep the coat healthy between trimmings. Bathing can be done when necessary but not too often -- it could damage the coat. The areas around the eyes and ears should be cleaned trimmed regularly.
Coat trimming should be done 2–3 times per year, and the coat should be stripped twice each year. Or bring the dog to a groomer every 4–6 weeks to maintain the coat. The ears and teeth should be cleaned regularly, and the teeth should be brushed to prevent periodontal disease.
Health Problems
HIGH: There are many health issues to be aware of for this breed. According to a health survey conducted by the West Highland White Terrier Club of America, the following conditions are most often seen in Westies: Atopic dermatitis Luxating patella Aggression Inflammatory bowel disease Legg-Calve-Perthes disease Dry eye Addison's disease Lymphoma White shaker syndrome Pulmonary fibrosis Juvenile cataracts Craniomandibular osteopathy Pancreatic enzyme deficiency Other possible health conditions include: Cleft palate Heart disease Hip dysplasia Kidney disease Pyruvate Kinase deficiency
Annual physicals, if not twice annually, are highly recommended to ensure Westies maintain good overall health. This Westie has a bunny buddy:
Where to Adopt One
Check shelters and rescues for Westies near you.
If you contact a breeder, make sure to view the breeder's home or facility and ask to meet the parents of the dog you might adopt or buy. Because of the long list of potential health problems for this breed, ask for health clearances from the breeder.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
West Highland White Terriers are expensive due to careful breeding, health screenings, and their popularity as companion dogs. A well-bred Westie puppy typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500.
Yes, Westies tend to be vocal and alert, often barking at strangers, noises, or when excited. Training can help manage excessive barking.
Westies are moderate maintenance dogs. Their wiry coat requires regular grooming, and they need consistent training and exercise to stay well-behaved and healthy.
Westies can be stubborn, prone to skin allergies, and have a high prey drive, making them difficult to train off-leash. They also require regular grooming and can be territorial barkers.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's West Highland White Terrier Page
- West Highland White Terrier Club of America
- Canadian West Highland White Terrier Club
- West Highland White Terrier Club of England
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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