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The Canine Chronicles Directory
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers are beautiful compact dogs. Their weatherproof double
coat should be pure white and have a shaggy, rounded appearance. The outer coat
is about 2 inches long and should be hard in texture. The undercoat should be soft
and abundant. The head is wide and slightly domed. The muzzle is short with a defined
stop. The dark eyes are medium in size and are widely set. The nose is black. The
small, erect ears are triangular in shape and have short smooth hair on them. The
large teeth should meet in a level or scissor-like bite. The long neck is muscular
and merges into sloping shoulders. The compact body has a level topline. The legs
are short, muscular and straight. The strong, round feet are thickly padded. The
forefeet should be larger than the hind feet. The tail is straight, medium in length
and should never be docked.
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Temperament
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West Highland White Terriers are lively, outgoing, playful, spunky and cocky. They
are affectionate and loyal to their families. They love playing with children and
can withstand rough play. They get along with dogs of their own breed and if introduced
when younger, can get along with cats as well. Since they can be domineering, they
must be trained and socialized at an early age. Due to their alert and courageous
natures, they make excellent guard dogs.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 10-12" ; Weight: 15-22 lbs.
Female Height: 9-11" ; Weight: 13-16 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to skin problems, liver disease, hernias and Perthe's disease.
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Living Conditions
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The Westie will do great living in an apartment as they are very active indoors.
There is no need for a yard.
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Exercise
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This breed is always ready for a walk, but are not fussy about how much exercise
they get.
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Life Expectancy
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More than 15 years
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Grooming
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The breed's double coat is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a stiff brush. Bathe
only when absolutely necessary. Trim around the ears and eyes with scissors. Trim
the entire coat about three times a year and strip once a year. More extensive grooming
is necessary for show dogs.
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Origin
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West Highland White Terriers share their ancestry with the Scottie, Cairn and Dandie
Dinmont terriers. The origin of the breed is said to come from Col. Malcolm of Poltalloch
of Argyleshire, Scotland. He accidentally shot and killed his favorite dark colored
terrier and vowed to only own white dogs. These dogs were called Poltalloch Terriers.
In the 1620s, records show that King James I of England requested 'little white
earth dogs' from Argyleshire. In the 19th century, this breed was known as Roseneath
Terriers in honor of the Duke of Argyll's patronage and interest. His estate was
called Roseneath and located at Dumbartonshire. In the 1800s, when they were presented
at the first organized dog shows, they were known as White Scottish Terriers. Then
in 1904, their name changed again to the West Highland White Terrier. This breed
was originally bred to hunt otters, foxes and vermin. Today they are mainly companion
dogs. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Terrier
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