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 - For Medium/Large Dogs
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 is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.
Pet-Fun Medium Mango - Safe Fun Durable Rubber Dog Chew Toy for Boredom, Virtually Indestructible Treat Dispenser, Long-Lasting Slow Feeder, Tough Strong Teething Toy for Medium/Small Dogs
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.
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.
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Football Dog Toy
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.
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.
Beco Pets Rough & Tough Crab Recycled Polyester Dog Toy
With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.
This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.
This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:* "TastyBone Roast Chicken Knotted Bone Dog Chew Toy")
This knotted dog bone, complete with a tasty chicken flavour, will help to prevent boredom. Tested to withstand aggressive chewing, it ensures the gums and teeth of your dog stay healthy with every bite.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.
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 just over £4.
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.
