West Highland White Terrier Dog Breed - Origin, Pictures, Caring Needs, Friendliness and more

West Highland White Terrier 1

West Highland White Terrier At A Glance

West Highland White Terrier Overview

The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie or simply Whiteie, is a small, hardy, and intelligent dog breed originating from the Scottish Highlands. Known for its distinctive white coat that requires minimal grooming, this terrier is characterized by its triangular head with large, expressive eyes and a long body that tapers to a fine tail.

West Highland Whites are renowned for their feisty nature, making them excellent watchdogs and companions. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them content and healthy. This breed is generally friendly and adaptable, able to thrive in various living situations provided they receive proper care and attention.

West Highland White Terrier Key Points

  • Size and Weight: The West Highland White Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog, typically weighing between 20 and 32 pounds (9 to 14 kg) with a height of around 18 inches (45 cm).
  • Coat and Grooming: They have a thick, weather-resistant double coat that is soft and slightly wavy. The most distinctive feature of the West Highland White Terrier is their white color, which requires regular grooming to keep it neat and free from mats.
  • Energy Level: This breed is known for its high energy levels and strong spirit. They require regular exercise to stay healthy and content.
  • Personality: They are intelligent, curious, and courageous dogs with a strong prey drive. West Highland White Terriers can be excellent watchdogs but may not be suitable for first-time owners due to their active nature and tendency to bark.
  • Health Considerations: While generally healthy, this breed may be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation (knee problems), allergies, and vision problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor their health.

West Highland White Terrier Quick Facts

Average Purchase Price
$500
Average Food Costs
$300/year
Average Lifetime Costs
$20500
Origin
Scotland
Type
Terrier
Average Life Span
13 years
Size
Small
Average Weight
8 kg
Average Height
11 inches
Fur Colours
White
Eye Colours
Brown
Exercise Requirements
1.5 hours per day
Grooming Needs
Moderate(More than once a week)
Shedding Fequency
Seasonal
Ideal Living Size
Apartment
Health Issues Risk
Moderate(Dental problems, eye issues, skin allergies)
Temperament
Hardy, Friendly, Alert, Independent, Gay, Active, Courageous
Character
Intelligent, energetic, playful, good-natured

West Highland White Terrier Characteristics

Friendly Rating8/10
Trainability6/10
Intelligence Rating7/10
Good with Other Dogs6/10
Good with Strangers8/10
Shedding Tendency6/10
Drooling Tendency2/10
Coat Length2/10
Playfulness10/10
Protectiveness10/10
Energy8/10
Barking Tendency10/10
Adaptability7/10
Beginner Friendliness8/10
Cold Weather Tolerance8/10
Hot Weather Tolerance6/10
Physical Needs8/10
Intensity8/10

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