Other names

Westie

Life expectancy

15 years

Age adult

10 months

Height (Shoulder height)

26 cm

Weight

8 kg

Coat texture

long-haired / undercoat / harsh / dense

Coat color

white

Common illnesses

ear diseases / allergies / kidney disease / skin diseases / Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease / pyruvate kinase deficiency / craniomandibular osteopathy / joint disease / globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's syndrome)

Food expenses per month in €

about € 26

Suitable for children

Rather yes

Needs a garden

Rather not

Hunting motivated / needs alternative employment

Rather yes

First dog suitable

Rather yes

Allergy friendly

Rather not

Athletic

Attention

Care and grooming

Eager to learn

Exercise

Nature

friendly / alert / active / bold / likes hunting / prone to barking / independent

Bred for

small gmae hunt

Common illnesses

ear diseases / allergies / kidney disease / skin diseases / Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease / pyruvate kinase deficiency / craniomandibular osteopathy / joint disease / globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's syndrome)

Dog type according to FCI

terriers

FCI description

Terriers were bred to hunt mice and rats and to drive badgers and foxes out of the burrow. Here they are on their own. They had to decide for themselves what to do, be dauntless and fearless. Hesitant behaviour could cost them their lives, so they reacted to threats with resistance. Bull-like terriers grabbed hold in the fight against bulls or other dogs and were trained to hurt their opponent and never give up.

Almost all terriers have a pronounced hunting instinct, are persevering, courageous and stubborn. Their temperament must not be underestimated, even with good education they usually keep their own head and can become tyrants if they do not get enough species-appropriate activity and above all can live out their hunting behaviour. But they are also available for other activities. Since they are/have been left on their own, especially in caves, extreme caution is required with children when they crawl under tables etc. where a terrier has found his place.

Short description

The West Highland Terrier is a compatible, loyal and loving family-dog. His nature complies with any other Terrier: boldness, independence and endurance. He wants to be challenged physically and mentally, and wants to act out his hunting instinct. He can be a loving companion in apartments, but does tend to bark. His coat need regular trimming.