The West Highland White Terrier — the Westie — is a small, cheerful terrier from Scotland with a bright white coat and a big personality. The Westie is friendly, confident and playful, a loving family dog that loves children, other dogs and being part of everything.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Scotland.
- Group: Terrier.
- Lifespan: 13–15 years.
- Weight: 7–10 kg.
- Height: 25–28 cm at the shoulder.
- Temperament: Friendly, confident, playful, sturdy.
- Good with kids: Yes — playful and sturdy with children.
- Good with other pets: Yes, usually friendly with other dogs and cats.
- Exercise needs: Moderate to high — about 1 hour a day.
- Grooming: Moderate to high — double coat, regular brushing.
Temperament & Personality
Westies are friendly, confident and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people, love children, and are usually good with other dogs. They are happy, outgoing dogs that love to play and be part of everything. They are terriers through and through: they dig, chase and bark, and they need a job to do. They can be stubborn and independent, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company but can settle alone for a few hours. They are not guard dogs — a Westie will greet a stranger with a wagging tail.
Health
Westies need an honest health note: the breed is very prone to skin allergies (atopic dermatitis) — itchy skin is the most common Westie problem, and many Westies need a special diet and regular vet care for it. Other known issues include craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO, a jaw-bone condition in puppies), Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (a hip condition), and copper toxicosis (a liver condition). Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, and see the vet promptly for any skin problem.
Training
Westies are intelligent and quick to learn, but they can be stubborn — training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. Teach a reliable recall from puppyhood: a Westie on a chase will not come back. Harsh methods damage trust.
Food & Nutrition
A West Highland White Terrier needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Many Westies have sensitive skin, so a vet may recommend a hypoallergenic diet. Fresh water should always be available.
Grooming
The Westie’s double coat needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent tangles, plus hand-stripping or clipping every few months to keep the coat in shape. Baths only when dirty — too much bathing dries the skin. The white coat stains easily around the eyes and mouth, so keep those areas clean. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed. Westies shed moderately.
Exercise
A West Highland White Terrier needs about 1 hour of activity a day: walks, play and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are small dogs with plenty of energy — a Westie needs to run, dig and think every day. Without it, expect digging, chewing and barking.
Is the West Highland White Terrier Right for You?
The West Highland White Terrier suits families who want a friendly, cheerful companion and can give it exercise, training and regular grooming. It is one of the best small breeds for a family with children. It is less suited to owners who dislike grooming, or anyone wanting a dog without skin-care needs.
FAQs
Are West Highland White Terriers good for first-time owners?
Yes, for an active first-time owner. They are friendly and trainable, but their stubbornness and skin problems surprise many new owners.
Do West Highland White Terriers shed a lot?
Moderately. Their double coat sheds all year but is easy to manage with regular brushing.
How much exercise does a West Highland White Terrier need every day?
About 1 hour of walks and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.
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