West Highland Terriers: The 4 paw guide

West Highland Terriers are one of the most popular breeds of today, due mainly to their adaptability to lifestyles and their plucky personality and nature.

Whilst being intelligent, lively, full of fun, courageous, great with children and very devoted, the West Highland White Terrier is also known to be self reliant and wilful. They can be a challenge as a first dog! On the whole West Highland Terriers make excellent family pets, loving to join in with the whole family – the amount of devotion and determination crammed into its little body is quite remarkable.

Affectionately known as the 'Westie' the West Highland Terrier appears to have been bred from various other small working terriers, popular in Scotland. They excelled in otter and fox hunting in the past and although he is no longer used in this capacity, still loves to chase the odd rabbit!!

West Highland Terriers at a glance
Our 4 Paw Rating - to the suitability of West Highland Terriers for your home and lifestyle.

Size
Height - 10 - 11 inches at shoulder, weight – 15 - 22 lbs.

Coat Care
Minimal shedding of this short wiry coat, brushing twice a week will normally suffice.

Family Life
A real 'joiner in-nner' the Westie loves to be included, will run around as much as any child can cope with, but is equally happy to sit at and contemplate!

Lifestyle
Great for apartment living, but just as happy in the country. A really good fit to most lifestyles.

Health
Life expectancy 11 - 14 years. Full screening for any hereditary problems recommended.

Exercise
As much or as little as your lifestyle allows – although diet will need to be carefully managed in a sedentary dog.

Training
Bright, loyal and eager to learn. Responds best to short sessions focussed around play, rather than correction.