Getting to Know Your Westie

Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed,
and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance,
personality, and health requirements. Here's what you need to
know about the West Highland White Terrier:

Commonly referred to as a “Westie,” this breed has an excellent
personality, being extremely friendly and great with both
children and other animals. The breed is small with a white
coat that is hard to miss. Keep in mind that because the
Westie is a “terrier,” you can expect a little bit of
independence and attitude. However, proper socialization and
training will help.

This breed of dog is actually a descent of the Cairn Terrier,
which is also white, and the Scottish Terrier, also known for
producing white puppies. Although no longer done, original
breeds of the West Highland White Terrier also incorporated
bloodlines from the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Bedilngton
Terrier.

The exact origin of the West Highland White Terrier is a bit
confusing. Some believe the breed originated during the 19th
century, first being developed in Scotland by Colonel Edward
Donald Malcolm while others insist the breed was developed by
the 8th Duke of Argyll. Regardless of the actual person
responsible for the Westie, we do know that special breeding
was required to end up with this beautiful and distinguished
dog.

Physical Appearance
The West Highland White Terrier has a strong, sturdy body,
bright eyes that are typically dark and deep set, and small,
pointed ears. The average height for this breed is 11 inches
with weight anywhere from 15 to 22 pounds. Unlike other
breeds, the Westie has a tail with a carrot shape, averaging
five to six inches in length. The the tail is a distinguishing
character. It should never be docked. You would also notice the
build including a deep chest, short fitted jaw with a scissor
bite, muscular legs, and a slight convex head.

The coat of the West Highland White Terrier is a double coat.
This means the undercoat is soft and thick while the outside or
top coat is rough. To keep the Westie looking good, it does
require regularly scheduled grooming. Depending on personal
taste, some people will keep the Westie clipped short while
other people will go for the lion clip in which fur around the
face is left to resemble the mane of a lion. The Westie has
feet with a slight web, similar to that of the Labrador
Retriever.

Temperament and Personality

Keep in mind that while the West Highland White Terrier makes
an exceptional companion or family pet, it is also among the
working class dog, which means it has a medium to high level of
energy. When taking your dog outside, you may notice it trying
to chase down birds, squirrels, and other “prey.” It is
important to note that most terriers have a built-in desire to
chase prey. The Westie is exceptionally driven. Because of
this, if you were out walking the dog, even one that had been
trained, you risk it taking off at the first sight of a rabbit
or other creature.

Although this breed would make a great pet for the elderly or
apartment-dwellers, due to the energy level, the Westie also
needs adequate playtime and exercise. You will also find that
the West Highland White Terrier is protective of its family,
making both great watchdog and guard dog. While the Westie
does exceptionally well with children and other animals in the
home, it is still important the dog be socialized and
introduced preferably from a young age.

Health

Probably the most common complaint seen with the West Highland
White Terrier has to do with skin. This breed is prone to dry
skin so rather than bathing weekly, as you might do with
another dog, it is recommended not more than once a month. To
help keep the coat healthy and shiny, daily brushing will help.
When you do give this breed a bath, you want to use gentle dog
shampoo, one without fragrance or detergent.

In addition, you will find that the Westie often has allergies.
For instance, while one breed of dog might only itch slightly
when bitten by a mosquito, the West Highland White Terrier
could actually experience a nasty infection. Other less common
health problems include Westie Lung Disease, White Shakers,
liver, kidney, eye, and heart problems, along with diabetes,
Addison’s Disease, Legg-Calve Perthes, and Hip Dysplasia.


About The Author: Daniel Stevens is the renowned dog trainer
and author of SitStayFetch, a leading dog training guide having
sold over 21,000 copies. See
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/dogbreeds/west-highland-terrier.php
for more on dog breeds.