BREED FOCUS

“Westie” - West Highland White Terrier

Height Dogs - 25cm Bitches - 25cm Exersise Requirement Moderate Grooming Moderate Average Lifespan 13-14 years

History of the Westie

Originating in Scotland, Westies were bred to hunt foxes, otters and vermin. They share their ancestry with many of the other true Scottish Terriers and became formally recognised as West Highland White Terrier’s in 1904

Appearance of the Westie

Westie’s are compact, stocky little dogs with shaggy white coats. They have little button noses and small, erect ears.

They look very sweet, but strong and have a happy, proud air when they are trotting around the park!

Temperament of the Westie

Westies are confident little dogs, totally local to their family but they make good protection dogs as they are extremely alert and brave.

Westies are affectionate dogs but can withstand plenty of rough play, so make good companions and play mates for children.

They can be quite dominant with other dogs so care should be taken with socializing them with others. They will chase cats if not socialized with them at an early age.

Grooming a Westie

Westies require a minimal amount of grooming – perhaps once a week, but will require their coats to be stripped by a professional 2-3 times per year.

Westie Exercise Requirements

They require a moderate amount of exercise and will appreciate long, off lead runs, especially chasing a ball around the park! Care should be taken with proper recall training when Westies are young, to ensure that they come back properly when called.

Westie Health Problems

Westies are hardy dogs and are unlikely to suffer from many ailments. Some do suffer from occasional skin problems, and deafness is a possibility.

Readers Westies

Maureen Cox's Lovely Westies

Maureen Cox says; "The piccy is of my three best friends, Megan, Molly and McLeod, Molly is 4years, Mac is 9months. Megan is now an OAP at 13years. The  westies are great fun and always into mischief. Their favourite place is on the back of the sofa, looking out the window.  The neighbours call them westie watch. Megan is taking life at a much slower pace these days, she is originally from Battersea Dogs home. Meg is very calm in total contrast to the Westies, and is such a joy to have around.

"Westie Watch"