West Highland White Terrier - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Purpose

Westies were first bred as a working dog – their original purpose was to hunt vermins on farms, barns and in mines. They were also used by hunters when they helped them on rabbit and fox hunts. They were developed in Scotland and they are related to other terriers, for example the Cairns.

2) Typical Terrier

Westies are terriers on 100%. Smart and tough, but also independent and stubborn. This is very determined dog and when they have a job, they are not stopping until its done. And another trait they share with a lot of terriers is, that sometimes they are not good with other dogs.

3) Color

This breed is famous for its beautiful white coat. And they white for a reason. It helped them to stay visible during the hunts so the hunters can easily follow them. But most importantly, this prevented a lot of accidents, when the hunters actually shot their own dogs instead of the hunted animal.

4) Fearless

It looks that no one tell the West highland white terriers how small they are, because they are capable of standing up against much bigger dogs. Sometimes they are absolutely fearless dogs. But in general, they are pretty friendly with people.

5) Barking

Westies are very vocal dogs, they especially love barking. They bark when there is a stranger, or another dog, or a squirell, or when a car is passing by. They just bark whenever they want to. But since it is true that they have loud bark, they are not the best guards, because they will probably ended up as a friends with the burglar.

6) Size

West Highland Terrier has a rectangular bullet shaped body and deep chest. Their hight should be between 9-12 inches which is 23-30 cm and their weight should be between 13-22 pounds which is 6-10 kg.

7) Grooming

Westies sheds only a little, but they do need regular grooming and occasional trimming around the feet, ears and eyes. They do not need much bathing, since they are good at taking care of their coat by themselves.

8) Body

West Highland white terrier has bullet shaped body for a reason. They neede to burrow underground to flush out the game. They are just build to move underground. They can squeeze through really tight spots.

9) Not for novices

Westies are independent and kinda stubborn, which means they are bad choice for novice or even first time dog owners. They just like to do things their way and it is a challange to make them obedient. But of course it is possible, but you must be absolutely consistent and very patient leader.

10) Exercise

West Highland white terrier need regular exercise, so if you are not ready to commit to it, this might not be the best dog for you. They like more intense exercise, you can try some vigorous plays but of course regular daily walks are a must as well.