Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our series, Dog Breed of the Month. This month, we take a deep dive into the world of West Highland White Terriers. Want to adopt one of your own? Keep reading to find out all you need to know, including size, temperament and character.
"West Highland White Terriers, affectionately known as 'Westies', are small but active and confident terriers, full of courage," Bill Lambert, a spokesperson for The Kennel Club, tells Country Living. "They need plenty of exercise, but their smaller size mean they can be a good choice for city-dwellers looking for active, characterful, and loyal companion."
What are the suitable owners for a West Highland White Terrier?
West Highland White Terriers make wonderful companions for first-time or inexperienced dog owners. Full of life, spunk and devotion, they are guaranteed to bring joy to whoever welcomes them into their home.
Bill tells us: "Westies can be a good choice for a variety of owners due to their friendly nature and compact size, including those who live in smaller homes, as well as families with children. However, those looking to buy a West Highland Terrier should not underestimate their exercise and grooming needs."
Are West Highland Terriers aggressive?
While some Westies can be aggressive (this can come down to many different reasons), most of them are not. It's worth knowing, however, that these stubborn and strong-willed dogs love to bark.
What were West Highland Terriers bred for?
As with all Terrier breeds, the West Highland was originally bred as a vermin hunter for rats and foxes, with their origins dating back to the 15th century Scotland. They might be one of the most favourite family pets, but they're also pretty handy to have around incase of a vermin sighting.
What are the characteristics of West Highland White Terriers?
"Westies are small but active and strong dogs, with a lot personality," says Bill. "Their independence can sometimes be a challenge during training, but these terriers are also highly intelligent and alert. Westies tend to be happy and friendly dogs."
Other characteristics include:
- Courageous
- Alert
- Hardy
- Active
- Independent
- Friendly
- Intelligent
Are West Highland White Terriers cuddly?
While all West Highland Terries are affectionate, loyal and responsive breeds, some Westies prefer constant cuddles more than others — and will love curling up on your lap at the end of the day.
While they look like cuddly lapdogs, the Terriers actually possess high energy levels so may not sit still for long periods of time.
Do you have to groom West Highland Terriers?
Bill tells us: "West Highland White Terriers have a distinctive double coat, with a harsh outer coat and soft under layer, which means they need regular grooming, several times a week."
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24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG Tires Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot. Plus, we love that you can pick this up at the supermarket as you do your weekly food shop or even have it delivered with your groceries.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
If your pup is a fiend for peanut butter, you might want to introduce this peanut butter flavour chew toy into their playtime routine. The T-shape allows them to grip it easily with their paws while the raised nubs on it can help keep their teeth clean.
If they prefer the taste of bacon, why not try this double-bend bone toy. It's available in a range of sizes to ensure that your dog doesn't miss out on this tasty treat.
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
This bright fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and a practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Made from three strands of heavy duty tightly woven rope, this traditional rope toy is perfect for medium or larger breeds and can withstand some serious pulling and tugging.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. And it also has a tasty flavour to it too.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's currently on sale for less than £3.50.
Another great option if your dog loves to play fetch, this durable fetch stick toy not only makes it easier for them to spot where their stick has landed when you're out on a walk or a trip to the park. But it also works for all dogs of all sizes.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
Another great frisbee option is this XL one. It might even be easier for your four legged friend to grip and it's also currently on sale.
Made by Arm & Hammer, this gorilla-shaped toy is infused with baking soda to safely help with bad breath. Add in the fact that it is extremely durable and has a built-in treats dispenser and we can see why so many shoppers have given it five-star reviews.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
