Commonly and affectionately known as ‘Westies’ for short, this little terrier originates from Scottland, they were developed for hunting otter, fox, rats and other underground rodents. A small dog standing 25.5 – 28cm tall and weighing 9 – 10kg. The white double coat has a soft undercoat with a wiry outer coat which requires either hand stripping or clipping every 4-8 weeks. If grooming is neglected a Westie’s coat gets greasy, matts and tangles.
These dogs are suitable for people with allergies; like poodles, they shed little.
Why are the Westies white? A Colonel E.D. Malcom was out hunting foxes when he mistook his beloved dark terrier for a fox, he accidently shot and killed him. He then bred for a white terrier that could be distinguished from its prey. The breed was officially listed as the West Highland White Terrier in 1907.
In character and temperament these dogs are usually happy and friendly, with a lively nature, playful, loyal, intelligent and easy to train, but they can be stubborn. They are an ‘alert barker’ when he hears or sees something suspicious, announcing visitors, the postie and dogs walking past his house.
They can be affectionate but possess enough independence and self-assurance that they do not need or want pampering, normally not a lapdog or avid cuddler. Making great family pets with proper guidance and mental stimulation and daily activity. Some Westies may develop irritable snappy behaviour or hyperexcitability that could lead to biting.
Healthwise, this breed is generally healthy, but they can be prone to some problems such as cataracts, allergies and ear infections. Reputable breeders follow ethical practices and prioritise health and temperament with their breeding dogs by conducting necessary health screening.
There are at least seven breeds of terrier dogs that originated in Scottland: Scottish Terrier, Western Highland, Skye, Cairn, Dandie, Wheaten and Dinmont.
They are all closely related. The Westie and Scottish terrier are the most popular and common types in Australia.
A word of warning; owners of these pedigree dogs can become quite offended if you get the name of the breed incorrect.
