Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt a West Highland White Terrier
Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen
Family:
terrier
Area of origin:
Scotland
Original function:
fox, badger, and vermin hunting
Average size of male:
Ht: 11, Wt: 15-21
Average size of female:
Ht: 10, Wt: 15-21
Other names:
Poltalloch terrier
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Energy
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Exercise
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Playfulness
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Affection
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Friendliness towards dogs
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Friendliness towards other pets
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Friendliness towards strangers
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Ease of training
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Watchdog ability
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Protection ability
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Grooming
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Cold tolerance
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Heat tolerance
West Highland White Terrier Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now
See more adoptable West Highland White Terrier dogs available on Petfinder
West Highland White Terrier Dog Temperament
The busy Westie is happy, curious and always in the thick of things. She is affectionate and demanding, one of the friendliest terriers. She is not friendly, however, toward small animals. She enjoys a daily romp in a safe area or a walk on lead, as well as playtime at home. She is independent and somewhat stubborn and may bark and dig.
West Highland White Terrier Dog Care
The Westie needs either a short to moderate walk on leash or a good game in the yard every day. Her wire coat needs combing two or three times weekly, plus shaping every three months. Shaping for pets is by clipping or stripping. In some areas, it may be difficult to keep her coat white.
West Highland White Terrier Dog Health
Major concerns: globoid cell leukodystrophy, Legg-Perthes, CMO
Minor concerns: copper toxicosis, cataract, patellar luxation
Occasionally seen: deafness
Suggested tests: hip, knee
Life span: 12-14 years
Dogs Related to the West Highland White Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier
Irish Terrier
Shelters with West Highland White Terrier Dogs
Some animal welfare organizations with West Highland White Terriers ready for adoption:
