So you have decided you are going to buy a West Highland white terrier, otherwise known as a Westie. Westies are great little light-hearted dogs. They are quick to learn, and as a rule they are very self sufficient, and have wonderful, unique personalities. Most Westie owners will tell you that their dog possesses a “big personality.” They are lovable, but will never be mistaken for a lap dog.

If you are looking for a cuddly lap dog, a Westie may not be the right breed for you. They are notoriously independent, and won’t tolerate being held for very long periods. They like to be in close proximity to their owner/families, but they need their space. As a rule, when a Westie chooses a sleeping area they will find a private space. Away from the family, this sleeping area will most likely be somewhat protected on three sides; they also like to “cover their backs” when they sleep. Naturally there are exceptions to the rule. If the dog is taught to be a bit of a lap dog, they will most likely be a lap dog. But the Westie is not a natural lap dog. They like to call the shots, so to speak.

The Westie likes to be taken along with the family whenever possible. They are friendly, and love people in general, especially children. They are very loyal to their families and prefer being with their owners/families whenever possible.

When purchasing a dog most people prefer to buy a young puppy, and train the dog themselves. This can be rewarding. If buying a puppy, make sure you are home regularly enough to train the puppy properly. Westies are easy to train, but someone has to be in the home to do the training. Remember, it can be a frustrating and time consuming task to train a puppy. The other option is to purchase a dog that is a bit older, and has already been trained by the breeder. This is a good option, and many breeders can accommodate with a dog that is a little older and trained.

Male or female? In regard to temperament, there is little or no difference between the two in the Westie breed. It is said that Westie males are more affectionate than female Westies. The female is smaller and lighter, so easier to control on a walk or carry when necessary.

This pure white, sturdy small-framed dog is always full of energy and always on the alert and looking for fun. They love to get out and walk, and run in a wooded area, looking for game.

Westies’ ears stand up naturally at each side of their fluffy, happy face. At the opposite end, a perky short tail, which – by nature’s design – comes to a gradual point. As adults, it is desirable for the male Westie to be 11 inches in height; the female 10 inches in height. A Westies coat should be pure white. They have a double coat; the under coat being soft and fluffy, the top coat a bit coarse and wiry. This dual coat is natural to the Westie. The breed was developed and bread for a hard and dangerous job – that of hunting out and killing vermin. So the dual coat provides the Westie a good natural form of protection, not only from the elements, but the claws and teeth of its prey. The dry texture of the Westies coat also works to cut down on doggy odor. Due to this dryer coat they require less baths. They can be kept clean with frequent brushing and dry cleaning (this is done by adding a bit of corn starch to the dogs coat, brushing it out after a few minutes.)

Choosing a reputable breeder is very important. It is impossible to know when picking out your particular puppy just how that dog will turn out emotionally and physically. This is the best reason to find a good reputable breeder. A good breeder strives to breed healthy dogs that will exhibit traits that are natural to the dog they chose to breed. There are three choices when it comes to breeders; pet shop breeders, back yard breeders, and serious hobby breeders.

The pet shop breeder is the worst possible choice you can make when buying a dog. The puppies are poorly bred, and are thought of as merchandise to be sold for at a high profit. This form of breeding as a rule puts out sickly, unstable dogs, and I highly recommend you stay clear of pet shop breeders.

The backyard breeder can also be a poor choice. This type of breeder may be a Westie owner that thought it would be “fun” to have puppies. They know little about puppies and the training of puppies. As a rule they are not well acquainted with the stud dogs, and can offer little information on his background. They are unaware of the history of the breed, and any special needs of a given breed. To sum it up, they are ill-equipped to breed dogs, and lack the knowledge one needs to be a good breeder.

Your best choice when buying a dog is to find a serious hobby breeder. They have done their homework on the breed they are selling. As a rule, they are dog fanciers and do not look at breeding as a profit-only venture. They are breeding for show dogs. They strive to breed the best of their chosen breed. They will take responsibility for any and all pups produced, and stand behind their dogs. You can be assured the dogs are healthy, and have been given all the veterinary care they need as puppies along with proper training. A good breeder of Westies will belong to the “West Highland White Terrier Club of America”, and/or other well known Westie Clubs. They will most likely be involved in showing their dogs. A good breeder will ask you questions, and be very discriminating on the homes their puppies go to. They will guarantee their puppies, with an agreement to take the puppy back if for some reason you find you are not compatible with your new puppy. They will give you time to have the puppy looked at by a veterinarian of your choice, just to ensure there are no health problems looming, and that the puppy is in a good healthy condition.

A good breeder will have numerous references. They will be able to provide you with such references, in the way of other persons that have purchased dogs from them, along with their own veterinarians references. The breeder should be able to answer questions on the breed, and show a good knowledge of the breeds history. The breeder should also provide written instructions in regard to the puppies needs. Diet, exercise, and health care needs as a puppy and adult dog. The kennels should be clean, providing the dogs with a healthy environment. The dogs should be comfortable with the breeder, and show a good rapport with them. The dogs in the kennels should be of good temperament, and healthy in appearance. The good breeder will never sell a puppy that is too young to leave its mother.

And finally, the breeder should provide you with a record of the dates and types of vaccinations and worming that has been done on your puppy, along with any and all records on visits to the vet the puppy may have required while in the breeder’s care. It is also desirable to ask questions on the health of the parent dogs. The breeder must provide you with A 3- to 5-generation pedigree, and a “blue slip” to apply for registration of the Westie into the AKA.

Once you have found a trustworthy breeder here are a few tips on choosing the right puppy: Age is important; a puppy is usually ready to be taken to its new home at the age of eight to twelve weeks. You may find that all Westie pups look alike; they pretty much do all look alike. Look for a puppy with a sturdy build. The dog should feel firm, with good muscle tone. Their legs should be straight. The pup should be active when picked up, squirmy, after a short time relaxing and willing to be petted and cuddled a bit. Their coats should be thick and clean. There should be no discharge from eyes, nose or ears, and no odor at the ears. The eyes should be bright, with an alert look. The gums should be moist and pink. The dog should be active with the other pups. It’s a good idea to ask the breeder about the puppies personality. They can help you pick a dog that will be suited to your needs and your personality.

It is always smart to observe the dam for her traits. Does she appear overly shy, aggressive, stand-offish. Is she patient and watchful of the puppies, and not overly aggressive of the liter? Do the parent dogs look in good health? Are their coats healthy and do they appear active with good stamina? It is well known puppies can and do inherit traits from the parent dogs.

If you do your homework, you are more likely to pick just the right dog. The Westie is a wonderful breed. They are bright, happy spirited dogs, and will bring with them their own special outgoing personality. They will fast become your best friend.

West Highland White Terriers are high energy, intelligent small statured dogs that can be wonderful pets. It all depends on the circumstances. Because Westies are a small breed, there are legitimate questions as to appropriate homes for them, especially those situations where there are small children or a planned expansion of the family. The West Highland White Terrier Club of America says the dogs are not suitable for families with children under age ten, but there are controversial views on this subject, just like many others. Some groups recommend your Westie and your children remain under constant supervision and they will be just fine. So what are the pros and cons of a having a West Highland White Terrier as a family pet?

Although at first sight, it appears that West Highland White Terriers are not appropriate family pets for those with small children, there are some promising factors. Before examining them, it is important to look over the negative aspects, so that you aren’t bowled over by the good and therefore, overlook the bad, thinking, “That won’t happen to us.” Small children and small breeds such as the West Highland White Terrier aren’t always a good combination, mainly due to the natural behaviors of both the children and the dogs, and little to do with how either were raised.

Small dogs, like Westies, often require a great deal of rest, especially after play time or exercise, and they like to “hide” when they are resting. Often crawling under a pillow or blanket, your do is no long visible to your child, and could lead to an accident, such as the child stepping or sitting on the West Highland White Terrier. Even accidentally, this could result in lasting damage, both to your dog and your child, if your pet retaliates by biting your child. Rough play could also result in injury to your Westie, as children often don’t realize their strength when playing with pets.

Protectiveness is a strong characteristic of West Highland White Terrier, especially of their food and toys. A small child may not understand that concept, and may unintentionally venture too close to your Westie’s territory, possibly eliciting a defensive bite from your pet. In addition to being protective of their food and toys, Westies are also protective of their human family. Innocent roughhousing of your child with his friends could result in your Westie attempting to defend his young family member. Although completely innocent on all parts, including your dog’s, it is important to know that if your dog bites someone, certain procedures must be following, including involving the local police department and health department or animal control division. Additionally, medical bills generally fall to the responsibility of the dog’s owner.

Finally, the boisterous and loud play combined with the unsteady movements of your children may frighten your West Highland White Terrier, resulting in a nervous or shy pet. Although there are some medications available for those high-strung pets, some owners prefer not to administer them.

Naturally, all of these examples are generalizations, and not every dog is the same or will fall into any of these categories. Plenty of Westies have grown up with their families or welcomed new additions with no difficulties. However, a large commitment from the parents is required, so that the entire family knows what is expected of them, in order to make these unique situations workable. Socialization, good obedience training, and considering your Westie as a full member of the family are the key components to making the combination of children and Westies work properly.

Good socialization skills and obedience training should start as early as possible for all dogs, and West Highland White Terriers are no different. Socialization at young ages will help the Westie understand what is expected of them, how to behave around people of all ages, and learn the cues that signify friendly behavior from those humans that would like to say hello or play. Understanding where a Westie’s boundaries are is taught as a part of the obedience training. This is the point at which your children should become involved, attending the training classes with you and your family pet. In addition to teaching the Westie his boundaries, your children will learn how the dog should be treated and what acceptable behaviors with the family pet are.

West Highland White Terriers are pack animals. This is probably one of the most important things to remember, because the Westie considers himself a full member of the family. Considering your Westie when contemplating a new addition to the family is important and should be thought out in advance. The same goes for introducing a Westie to your existing family. Forgetting the needs of your Westie because of your new child is unacceptable, since getting a dog entails a lifetime commitment to him. Ignoring your Westie after having a new child can lead to unsavory and unhappy consequences, sometimes resulting in the displacement of your Westie from your home.

How to Train a West Highland White Terrier – Learn how to train your West Highland White Terrier obedience and discover tips and techniques you can use in this video. You can also get more information on West Highland White Terrier training by getting the FREE Dog Training Blueprint at: www.amazingdogtrainingman.com Don’t forget to rate this video, leave comments and subscribe to my channel.

The Cairn Terrier is a small terrier type dog that has more of the personality and instinctive drives of a hunting dog than it does of a terrier. In the original countryside where the Cairn was found, the Highlands of Scotland, this was the breed of choice for hunting the fox, the badger and the otter. Terriers with this sort of drive are often termed “sporting terriers”.

The Cairn terrier of modern times can be found in many colors. The only “forbidden” color is white. Back when the Cairn was developed, the white coloring split off into a separate breeding that later became known as the West Highland White Terrier. Any Cairn that is born a solid white is a “throwback” to this part of the bloodline and to keep the “Westy” pure, a white Cairn may not be shown and any offspring would not be registerable.

The Cairn is generally healthy but there presently exists a condition called Legg Perthes, a condition seen in other small breeds also. Legg Perthes is a malformation of the hip that can be identified with x-rays. It causes pain to the animal. In another bone-related disease, the Cairn suffers occasionally from luxation of the patella, or kneecap, which is similar to the subluxation of the hip found in hip dysplasia in larger breeds.

Another inherited condition in which the jaw becomes malformed as the puppy grows is also prevalent. This condition is called “lion jaw” and again causes pain and also prevents the dog from eating naturally. It goes without saying that any dogs afflicted with these conditions should never be used in the breeding program. Some of these bone related problems can be detected with x-rays and this is a useful tool for the serious breeder. All x-rays can be sent to the Orthopedic Foundation of American (OFA) and to similar organizations in other countries, where the x-rays are “graded” by qualified veterinarians and the resulting decision helps to determine the extent to which these bone conditions are present.

The Cairn is a popular terrier breed on both sides of the Atlantic. It often has one of the highest entries at the annual Montgomery County All Terrier show held in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania every October. It is a great family pet but its history as a “sporting terrier” defines it’s personality. It is the sort of dog that will not take no for an answer, whether it be in it’s reaction to another dog or in its desire to accomplish something other than what it’s master wishes! It is excellent with children, being plucky and ready to go. It is happy to live in a single dog household but owners shouldn’t want to leave this little dog in a fenced in area without supervision, for he is quite capable of digging himself out of a grass or dirt area. The Cairn has shown himself to be a popular entry in the “Go to Ground” Trials of terriers as well as competing in Obedience and Agility trials.

This West Highland White Terrier from Brazil (trained by team Carlos Souza) demonstrates climbing on a tree, as if it were a pit bull, to hunt for small animals. www.girino.org

West Highland White Terriers are prized possessions for dog owners, particularly those of you that cherish that luxurious, long white coat. The plush, thick coats consist of a double coat – a cottony undercoat and an outer coat of hard straight, white hair. Although the white coat makes for a distinctive look, it can also become the bane of your existence – given that the Westies love to dive into holes or digging their own in the backyard. Unfortunately, since your West Highland White Terrier has sensitive skin, he can only be bathed sparsely, although sometimes bathing is needed more often. So why should Westies be bathed infrequently, exactly, and what should you do if he need more than the usual requirement?

Frequent bathing your West Highland White Terrier will deprive his sensitive skin of the natural oils that are produced to help keep the white coat healthy. If you bathe your Westie too often, you must take the natural oils into consideration, because the oil glands could eventually cease production. As a result, your pet’s skin could become flaky, itchy and quite uncomfortable. Due to this condition, many Westie clubs and associations recommend washing your Westie only three or four times a year. Although this is a good general rule, you should definitely wash him if he rolls in something particularly nasty.

Some owners, perhaps yourself, may prefer to have your West Highland White Terrier groomed by a professional groomer. To take full advantage of the freshly cut hair, many owners choose to bathe their pet every four to six weeks. Many owners choose to get a variety of cuts. It’s really up to the person. It’s your dog so why not have fun with his or her hair?

In a very few circumstances, it is necessary to bathe your West Highland White Terrier more often than every four weeks. Allergies and other skin disorders may require a medicated shampoo prescribed by the veterinarian. On the other hand, your West Highland White Terrier may produce an excess of natural oils and more frequent baths will help remove them. It’s important not to bathe too frequently. Many of these oils are good for the Westies coat and help prevent skin irritations. Each dog is different, so try to find a time frame that allows your pups skin to be balanced and healthy. Those dogs that spend a great deal of time outside may often find smelly things to roll around in. Of course, there are some owners who simply prefer for their dog to be bathed more often.

If you do decide that you either prefer to or need to bathe your West Highland White Terrier, it would be best to consult with your local veterinarian about the proper bathing products to help keep your pet’s skin in its best health. There are specially formulated products for Westies that should always take preference over any other formulas, unless recommended by your vet. There are also specialized conditioners and rinses to help keep your Westie’s skin healthy, which is just as important as keeping your dog clean. A clean, healthy Westie is a happy pet.

The West Highland White Terrier is a hardy, happy little terrier that love the companionship of people. They are very good looking and make good watch dogs. They can get along with other pets, especially if socialized when young. They have been known to chase cats as a sport. They are generally very good with children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male is 10 to 12 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 15 to 22 pounds. The female ranges from 9 to 11 inches to the withers and 13 to 16 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the West Highland White Terrier is no exception. Be on the look out for skin allergies, progressive neurological disorders and tear duct problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. They have a double coat. The inner coat is soft and fluffy. The outer coat is white, straight and hard hair. This is a breed that needs to be professionally groomed regularly. She should also be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The West Highland White Terrier can live around 15 or more years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The West Highland White Terrier comes from Scotland where they were raised to hunt vermin. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1908.

Some Registries:

* West Highland White Terrier Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 5 West Highland White Terrier puppies

Category: Terrier

Terms To Describe: Alert, friendly, reliable, happy, balanced, hardy, self-esteem, strength, affectionate

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Sheds almost no hair.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

They may dig.

They may bark plenty.

*Other Names Known By: Toseneath Terrier, Poltalloch Terrier

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

Over the years, the West Highland White Terrier has won almost every honor that can be conveyed from the show scene. These honors came despite the fact that most breeders ended the lives of these little white creatures at the bottom of a water bucket at birth. The only crime the Westie committed in those early days of his origin, was having been born with a white coat.

The West Highland White Terrier and the Cairn Terrier are really brothers under the skin. Cairn Terrier breeders considered the “whites” as skeletons in the closet and pretended that they didn’t exist. Whenever a white pup showed up in a litter, it caused the breeder embarrassment; professional breeders therefore tried to obliterate all traces of the scrappy little terrier with the white coat.

Once in a while, though, a white puppy from a litter of Cairns managed to survive man’s injustice and breeder fad, and together with a white puppy from another source, the strain of whites was preserved. In fairness, it should be pointed out that those who did save the whites from being destroyed were equally guilty of destroying any puppy born with a coat other than white.

Advocates of whites and advocates of colored continued their practice of breeding for distinct color, and in time, each side had developed a distinct variety of terrier. Though they did not originate the breed, one family in Poltalloch, Scotland, is credited with keeping the white breed pure for many generations. They were the Malcolm family.

To the Malcolm family – and those who lived nearby – the white terriers became known as the Poltalloch Terrior. While Cairn Terrier breeders were busy eliminating the occasional white puppy from their litters, the Malcolm family was busy deliberately working the other way; that is, eliminating all other colors – except for white.

By the turn of the century, the West Highland White Terrier had lived with the name Poltalloch Terrior, Roseneath Terrer, White Scottish Terrier, White Cairn Terrier, and finally, the West Highland White Terrier.

The West Highland White Terrier became more popular with the general public than did the Cairn, and therefore was introduced into England before his colored brother. By the time Cairn Terriers gained the necessary popularity to be introduced to English dog shows, they found their white upstart little brothers already firmly established on the show circuit.

The “Westie” gained official recognition from the Kennel Club of England in 1907 followed shortly thereafter by the Cairn. The breed held its own in popularity for 10 years before the Cairn finally gained ground and became more popular with dog fanciers.

Learn how to groom the nails of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to dry the West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to trim the ears of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to groom the head of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to groom the tail of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to clean the ears of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to groom the feet of a West Highland White Terrier.

Learn how to groom the neck of a West Highland White Terrier.

West Highland White Terrier Puppy

West Highland White Terrier

There is no other member of the Terrier Group that is more friendly and affectionate than the West Highland White Terrier, or “Westie” for short. These adorable bundles of joy are a happy breed, always curious, and thrives on being the center of attention. It makes the perfect house dog for all family types are are wonderful around children.

The fun-loving temperament of the Westie carries over to strange dogs and people, as they are always looking to make new friends. Somewhat reserved around other pets in the house, these dogs quickly bond, making them amiable with every member of the family. At night they make excellent watchdogs, and will bark at any approaching person, animal, or sound.

A Brief History Of The West Highland White Terrier

The roots of the West Highland White Terrier goes back to Scotland, during the 1800s. The breed actually shares its bloodline with various other terriers during that time, each with outstanding hunting abilities. Small animals such as badger, fox, and vermin were hunted by these efficient terriers.

At one point, various breeds were all considered to be one. The list included the Skye Terrier, the Westie, the Scottish Terrier, and the Cairn Terrier. Distinctive strains were produced through selective breeding, based on qualities such as color and coat type, which were easily maintained throughout Scotland and several islands to the west of the country.

The West Highland White Terrier first gained popularity in 1907. At the time it was named the “Poltalloch Terrier”. Over the years the breed went through several more name changes, including: Little Skye, Roseneath, Cairn, and the White Scottish. In fact, the breed was registered with the AKC in 1908 as the Roseneath Terrier, but soon changed in 1909 to the West Highland White Terrier.

Upkeep Requirements For The West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is not the kind of dog that should live outside. Although they do have tolerance to moderately hot or cool temperatures, they should be spend most of their time indoors. However, having access to a fenced-in yard during the day is ideal, with sleeping arrangements inside at night with the rest of the family.

Westies need daily exercise to take care of their high energy levels, but due to the small size of the breed, these requirements can be met with a few walks on the leash and some playtime in the yard or living room. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing of the dog’s wiry coat, two to three times weekly. A professional clipping is also recommended every few months to keep the coat neat.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the West Highland White Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed include CMO, Legg-Perthes, skin disease, and globoid cell leukodystrophy. Minor health issues reported are KCS, copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, and cataracts.

History

People call these dogs Westies. As its name implies it originated in Scotland. It was bred from some of the same kinds of dogs as the Sealyham and Cairn. It is said to be a descendent of the Cairn Terrier. The Westie’s white coat is like a reflector on the moors when hunting, so the hunters can easily see their dogs. The West Highland White Terriers are used to hunt rabbits, badgers, squirrels, and foxes.

Colonel E.D. Malcolm of Poltallock, Scotland accidentally shot his Cairn Terrier hunting a fox; he  mistook the fox for his dog because Cairns are brown colored or wheaten. He bred until he came up with a white terrier. In 1907, a Westie was shown at the London Crufts show. The AKC accepted the West Highland White Terrier in 1908.

General Looks

It is a small terrier with a strong build. And shaggy fur. It has a fox-like face.

Is This Your Breed?

It is affectionate, faithful, and a good family canine. It is diminutive enough to be a good travel pal. The coat needs brushing each day and clipping on a regular basis or stripping is required.

Coat

The outer coat is coarse, copious, and resists weather. The under coat is cottony and short.

Color

The color is completely white, though occasionally there are wheaten markings.

Locomotion

The movement is cocky, free, and powerful.

Personality

It is happy, brave, friendly, and self-assured.

West Highland White Terrier video:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7hRDfPDHGU