West Highland White Terriers, commonly known as Westies, are a breed of dog known for their spirited personality and brilliant white coat. This breed is commonly recognized because it is used as a mascot for Black & White (a brand of Scotch whisky) and for Cesar brand dog food.
History: In the middle of the nineteenth century, it happened that the breeder of the Cairn Terrier in the country of Argyll, Scotland got some white pups in his litters. Those pups were selected and bred to obtain the West Highland White Terrier, which is simply a white Cairn. Westies were originally bred for controlling the population of rats, fox, otter and other vermin. This charming terrier is now mostly a companion dog.
Appearance: The West Highland White Terrier is a small, game, well-balanced hardy looking terrier, exhibiting good showmanship, possessed with no small amount of self-esteem, strongly built, deep in chest and back ribs. The head is shaped to present a round appearance from the front. Should be in proportion to the body. They have bright, dark, deep-set eyes with a penetrating gaze. The ears are small, pointed and erect, giving the animal an alert ready-for-anything look. The West Highland White Terrier is a double coat breed. The outer coat is straight, harsh and wiry. The under coat is close, fluffy, and soft. Their coat is brilliant white in color and lends to this breed an elegant look.
Size: Height: dogs - 10-12 inches (25-30cm); bitches - 9-11 inches (23-28cm)
Weight: dogs - 15-22 pounds (7-10kg); bitches - 13-16 pounds (6-7kg)
Temperament: The Westie is energetic and spunky. It is independent, demanding, and stubborn; but also friendly and happy. It can be shy around strangers and doesn’t like rough play. It can be excessively timid if mistreated. West Highland White Terriers are described in the standard as being “possessed of no small amount of self-esteem with a varminty appearance.” They can be demanding and assertive, and exhibit true terrier traits. They have a tendency to snap when irritated. The West Highland White Terrier is a social, fun loving breed that does best in an active and attentive household. Despite its size, they make a very good watchdog. These little dogs are easy to travel with. The Westie likes to dig and bark.
Health: Most are fairly healthy. Some are prone to diabetes, chronic skin problems, white shaker syndrome, Perthe’s disease (hip problems), hernias, liver disease, copper toxicosis, jawbone calcification, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Grooming: The West Highland White Terrier ’s double coat requires brushing twice weekly. They also require having their coat professionally stripped at least two times per year. They should only be bathed when necessary, as they are prone to dry skin.
Puppy price: $300.00 - $800.00