With its bright white coat, perky ears, and confident attitude, the West Highland White Terrier—affectionately known as the “Westie”—is a small dog with a huge personality. These terriers are known for their bravery, charm, and affectionate nature, making them a popular choice for both city and country living.
West Highland White Terrier Breed Summary
| Trait | Description |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 10 to 11 inches (25 to 28 cm) |
| Weight | 15 to 20 pounds (7 to 9 kg) |
| Coat | Harsh, double coat |
| Colors | White |
| Shedding | Low |
| Lifespan | Approximately 13-15 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, spirited, confident, and affectionate |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Enjoys walks, playtime, and exploration |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Best For | Families, singles, terrier lovers, apartment or house living |
Origin and History of the West Highland White Terrier
The Westie originates from Scotland, where it was bred to hunt vermin and foxes in rugged terrain. The breed’s signature white coat was intentionally selected to distinguish it from darker-colored prey. It shares ancestry with other Scottish terriers, such as the Cairn and Scottish Terrier.
Today, the Westie is cherished for its fearless spirit, bright personality, and good looks.
Appearance: What Makes the Westie Unique?
Westies have a compact and sturdy build with a characteristic white coat that’s both eye-catching and functional. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes and pointed ears give them an alert and lively expression.
Their harsh outer coat protects them from the elements while their soft undercoat provides insulation. Always on the lookout, they carry themselves with a distinctive bounce.
Personality and Temperament: Are They Good Companions?
Westies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They’re confident without being aggressive and make excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors.
While they can be independent, they love spending time with their humans and tend to get along well with other pets. Their upbeat attitude and curious nature make them entertaining and affectionate pets.
Want to discover more breeds with a similar cheerful and sociable personality? Check out our list of the Friendliest Dog Breeds to find the perfect happy companion for your home.
How Much Exercise Do They Need?
Westies have a moderate energy level and enjoy a mix of playtime and regular walks. They love to dig, chase small animals, and explore, so secure spaces are best. They also enjoy interactive games and basic training exercises.
Providing them with enough mental and physical stimulation helps prevent boredom and keeps their cheerful spirit in check.
For effective ways to keep your Westie engaged and well-behaved, explore our guide on the Best Dog Training Methods. It’s a great resource for building good habits while having fun together.
Grooming and Care
Their white double coat needs regular maintenance. Brushing two to three times a week helps prevent matting and keeps their coat looking fresh. Hand-stripping is preferred for show dogs, while pet trims may be easier for most owners.
Routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important to keep your Westie healthy.
Health Considerations
Westies are generally a healthy breed but can be prone to some conditions, including:
- Skin Problems: They may have sensitive skin prone to irritation.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: A condition affecting the hip joint.
- Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO): A jaw issue sometimes seen in young puppies.
- Luxating Patella: A knee issue common in small breeds.
Regular vet visits and a proper diet can help manage these potential concerns.
What is the Cost of a West Highland White Terrier Puppy?
Westie puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $2,500 depending on breeder reputation, location, and pedigree. Puppies from show-quality lines or health-tested parents may be more expensive. As always, consider the long-term costs of food, grooming, vet care, and training.
Adoption from terrier rescues is also a great way to bring a Westie into your home.
Westie Mixes
Westies are often mixed with other breeds to create adorable hybrids. Popular examples include the Westipoo (Westie and Poodle), the Westiepoo (Westie and Bichon Frise), and the Westie Chihuahua mix.
These mixes may inherit the Westie’s fun-loving nature with other appealing traits from their second breed.
Is the West Highland White Terrier Right for You?
If you’re looking for a spirited, loving, and easy-to-spot companion, the Westie may be the perfect match. They adapt well to different living situations and thrive on companionship, daily walks, and play.
With the right training and care, a Westie will be a cheerful and devoted member of your family for years to come.