Health and common issues
The most common health problem encountered are skin allergies. The breed can also be affected by an inherited bone disorder of the jaw. Check the Kennel Club website and the breed club for further health information.
Space requirements
Small and compact, the Westie is not difficult to house. A secure garden is essential as they are capable of jumping many times their own height, squeezing through small spaces and digging enthusiastically under an obstacle. Suited to town or countryside, but training will be needed to teach a Westie not to alert bark to every noise or moving object.
Training west highland white terrier
The Westie will enjoy training as long as you set them up to believe it was all their own idea. They will work hard for food rewards and toys they can chase, tug and rag about. Early work on recall, and socialisation to children, cats and livestock is important. An intelligent and versatile dog, if you enjoy training there is no reason the Westie cannot compete well in a variety of dog sports and competitions.
Best family dog breeds
A great companion for older children who can respect a dog’s need for space and take part in training and exercise. Small breeds are not ideal for very young children who find it very difficult to differentiate between ‘toy’ and ‘real live animal’ and terriers are unlikely to suffer such treatment without reaction. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.
Did you know?
- With their bright white coat and dark eyes and nose, the Westie been a long-standing favourite of artists and advertisers for many years. From Gallant the Westie who featured in artist Marjorie Turner’s works in the early 1900’s, to the Black &; White Scotch whisky brand, Rheingold beer and as the face of several dog food brands, the Westies attractive face is undeniably appealing. They also appeal to celebrities and even royals with owners having included HRH The Duchess of Cambridge, Matthew Mc
- Conaughey, Whoopi Goldberg, Hugh Laurie and many others.
- Despite their small size they have an incredibly loud bark. Interestingly, they were actually bred this way so that if they ever got stuck underground when hunting, their owner could locate them. West Highland Terriers have very sensitive skin on their ears and they can get sunburnt – so make sure you pop on some dog-safe sunscreen! Westie’s were developed to have a super strong tail that they can be pulled out by if they ever get stuck in a hole.
