West Highland White Terrier
These little dogs need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. The West Highland White Terrier is compact and short-coupled. It must be small enough to fit between rocks in a narrow passageway that was the typical fox den in its area of origin. These passages were often so narrow that the dog could not turn around. Short legs aided in maneuverability in the cramped passages. It had to have formidable teeth and jaws in order to face a fox in closed quarters. The harsh double coat, especially the hard, straight outer coat, provided protection from the fox's teeth, especially around the head, as well as from the elements. The tail needed to be sufficiently long to provide a handhold by which the dog could be pulled from shallow holes. The busy Westie is happy, curious and always in the thick of things. It is affectionate and demanding, one of the friendliest terriers. It is not friendly, however, toward small animals. It enjoys a daily romp in a safe area or a walk on lead, as well as playtime at home. It is independent and somewhat stubborn. It barks and digs.
| Grooming: | 4 stars Low Maintenance: Grooming is only necessary once in a while to maintain upkeep. |
| Trainability: | 3 stars Moderately Easy Training: This particular dog can be naughty, so occasionally it may need to be corrected. Training will have to be consistent and firm. |
| Name: | West Highland White Terrier |
| Other names: | Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier, Westie (or Westy) |
| Popularity: | 2022: #45 2021: #46 2020: #44 2019: #44 2018: #42 2017: #42 2016: #41 2015: #41 |
| Shedding Level: | 1 stars Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes. |
| Stranger Friendly: | 4 stars |
| Barking Tendencies: | 5 stars Frequent |
| Playfulness: | 5 stars |
| 01: | Max |
| 03: | Joey |
| 08: | Teddy |
| 09: | Toby |
| Apartment Friendly: | 3 stars West Highland White Terriers are suitable for people in towns and cities as well as in the country. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
| Exercise Needs: | 4 stars More + Less - These little dogs need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Size: | Small |
| Temperament: | Affectionate Alert Courageous Intelligent Friendly Hardy Independent |
| Watchdog Ability: | 3 stars |
| Breed Group: | Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC) |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Weight: | Male: 15-22 pounds (7-10 kg) Female: 13-16 pounds (6-7 kg) |
| 04: | Finn |
| 05: | Duke |
| 07: | Henry |
| Adaptability: | 4 stars |
| Cat Friendly: | 3 stars |
| Colors: | White |
| Dog Friendly: | 4 stars |
| Health Issues: | 5 stars Hypoallergenic: Yes |
| Height: | Male: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) Female: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) |
| 02: | Rocky |
| 10: | Leo |
| Child Friendly: | 4 stars Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Intelligence: | 4 stars Ranking: #47 Full Ranking List |
| Life span: | 12-16 years |
| Litter Size: | 2-5 puppies |
| Puppy Prices: | Average $1500 - $3000 USD The West Highland White Terrier is one of the most expensive breeds of small dog breeds. Usually, the average cost of purchasing a pet quality puppy from a reputable breeder is about $1,200 to $2,500. However, for a Westie puppy with top breed lines and a superior pedigree, you may need to pay between $3,500 and $5,000. |
| Rank: | Boy Names |
| 06: | Harley |