West Highland Terrier

Affectionate, hardy and inquisitive – here comes the West Highland Terrier. I’m a human to a Westie (called Juno) and can testify they are wonderful little dogs. 

History Of The West Highland Terrier

These cute guys and girls have been around for hundreds of years. West Highland Terriers or Westies were recorded as early as the reign of King James VI of Scotland – 1567 to 1625. 

There are many terriers from different parts of Scotland who are related because they share the same blood. Scottish Terriers are often confused with the Westie, because of similarities in their appearance. Given they were bred to ward off rats, the West Highland likely shares some DNA with the Scottie and the Cairn Terrier. Westies are one of 18 breeds of dog which originated in Scotland.

Westies were so popular in the early 20th century that they were being traded for hundreds of pounds. According to the Kennel Club, the Westie is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the UK, with more than 5,000 puppies registered in 2010. However, this is a decrease in numbers since 2001, when it was the most popular terrier breed of all, with over 11,000 new dogs registered. 

Appearance

West Highland White Terrier dogs have a distinctive double coat of white fur and triangle shape ears. Their outer coat is rough and their undercoat is soft. They need regular grooming, several days a week.

Male Westies grow to about 28cm, and the females to about 25cm.

Temperament

West Highland white terriers are perky, playful and independent dogs that make good family pets. They are spunky and have a lot of energy, but they also love to relax and cuddle. These dogs are usually good with kids and other pets but may be wary of strangers.

Westies are intelligent dogs that are easy to train, they can be headstrong at times, but they make wonderful pets.