Group: Terrier

Weight: 15-21 lbs

Height: male: 11, female: 10 inches



History

The West Highland white terrier was originally developed to hunt otters, foxes and vermin in the region of Scotland. The West Highland white terrier has the same descent as the Scottish, the Cairn and the Dandie Dinmont Terriers. During the 19th century, further breeding occurred in Argyll which led to the development of the West Highland white terrier. Today the West Highland white terrier is more of a companion dog than a hunting dog.

Characteristics

West Highland White Terriers are resilient and strongly built feisty and also very stable dogs. These dogs are a very popular breed, and they are very clever and display good manners in general. The West Highland white terrier is very fond of playing, but at the same time they can also be very quiet and strong-minded.

Temperament

The West Highland white terrier is a very happy, brave, confident and curious dog. These dogs love to get involved in all the action that is taking place at home. The West Highland white terrier is much friendlier and easy to handle than some of the other terrier breeds – however, they still require their daily playing en exercising session. These dogs should be kept in a safe and secure area, and not let of the leash if this is not the case – they love to chase. This breed will get along well with older children, but they can be quite possessive of their toys and food. These dogs are very clever, but can also be a bit obstinate at times.

Care

Grooming requirements for the West Highland white terrier can be quite high, and their coats should be brushed twice a week. Their hair should also be trimmed every few months, and if it is a show dog, dead coat should be stripped every few months. The hair around their bottom should also be kept short, and it is recommended that these dogs are bathed once a month. If these dogs are groomed properly, they will not shed a lot – and my therefore be suited to allergy sufferers.

Training

The West Highland white terrier should be trained from an early age onwards, especially when it comes to obedience and socialisation. These dogs will do best of the training is based on love and gentle guidance. With these dogs rough training methods will not work. These dogs will do well in obedience training is it is conducted in a fair and consistent manner.