West Highland White Terrier
Also known as: Westie, West Highland, White Terrier
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
15-20 lbs
Height (Male)
11 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is one of the most recognizable and popular small breeds. With their bright white coat and confident personality, they are cheerful, sturdy companions with an unmistakable charm.
History
Developed in the Scottish Highlands, originally called the Poltalloch Terrier. Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm bred them white so hunters could distinguish them from game. Closely related to Cairn, Scottie, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. AKC recognized in 1908.
Appearance
A small, compact terrier with a pure white, hard double coat. Dark, piercing eyes set under heavy eyebrows. Small, erect ears. Sturdy, well-balanced body. Alert, intelligent expression.
Temperament
Confident, entertaining, and spirited. Westies are friendly, outgoing dogs with typical terrier boldness. They are happier and more sociable than their Scottish Terrier cousins.
Personality Around Others
Friendly with people. Good with older children. Can be feisty with other dogs. Outgoing personality. Love attention.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and play. Active but adaptable. Enjoy games and exploration.
Training
Intelligent but independent. Positive reinforcement. Can be stubborn. Keep training fun and varied.
Grooming
Hard coat needs regular brushing and hand-stripping. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Keep white coat clean.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Skin allergies are very common in Westies—often the breed's biggest health challenge. Regular dermatological care may be needed.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Skin Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$800-$1,500
Nutrition
Quality food—may need hypoallergenic diet for skin issues. Two meals daily. Food allergies common.
Living Environment
Excellent apartment dogs. Small, adaptable, moderate exercise. Good indoor dogs.
Ideal Family
Families, singles, seniors wanting a cheerful companion. First-time owners with terrier research. Apartment dwellers.
Intelligence
Smart and quick-witted. Independent thinkers. Can be manipulative in a charming way.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Can be barky. Alert to everything. Training helps but they remain vocal watchdogs.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Low shedding with regular grooming. Hard coat managed through hand-stripping.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
One of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world
Bred white so hunters wouldn't mistake them for foxes
Featured in the Cesar dog food brand logo
Closely related to Cairns, Scotties, and Dandies
Colonel Malcolm bred them after accidentally shooting a dark-colored terrier
Famous Dogs
Cesar
The Westie featured in the famous Cesar brand dog food packaging worldwide
Kiltie
One of the earliest show champions who helped establish the breed standard
Common Myths
"White dogs are always sickly"
Westies are hardy, sturdy dogs. Their skin allergies are breed-specific, not related to their white color
"They're yappy lap dogs"
Westies are active, confident terriers—not lap dogs. They are hardy working dogs in a small package
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they have skin problems?
Skin allergies are common in the breed. Regular grooming, quality diet, and veterinary care help manage them.
Are they good apartment dogs?
Excellent—their small size and adaptable nature make them ideal apartment companions with daily exercise.
Puppy Guide
Westie puppies are confident and curious. Start grooming routine early. Socialize broadly.
Senior Care
Senior Westies remain spirited. Skin issues may increase. Moderate exercise. Regular vet visits.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$15,000-$24,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cheerful personality
Good apartment dog
Recognizable appearance
Sturdy and adaptable
Fun-loving
Cons
Prone to skin allergies
Can be barky
Needs regular grooming
Independent streak
Strong prey drive