Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
13–15 years
Weight
6–10 kg
Height
25–28 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
White
West Highland White Terrier
About This Breed
The West Highland White Terrier, or 'Westie,' is a popular Scottish terrier originally bred for hunting rats and other vermin. Their all-white coat, perky ears, and confident personality make them beloved companion dogs worldwide.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a West Highland White Terrier
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Terriers |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 6–10 kg |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years |
| Height | 25–28 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | White |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Friendly · Alert · Courageous · Hardy |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The West Highland White Terrier, commonly called the Westie, is a fun, friendly, and confident breed that will entertain his owners for hours. This distinctive little white terrier stands 10–11 inches in height and typically weighs 15–20 pounds. Originally bred in Scotland to hunt rodents, today these tiny terriers are happy being loyal family pets—but that doesn’t mean they’re content to lounge around the house all day. Caring for a Westie The Westie dog is energetic and always ready to play or cuddle with his family.
Care Guide
The Westie dog is energetic and always ready to play or cuddle with his family. This affectionate breed is generally patient and gentle with young children, though supervision and early socialization with kids is crucial (as with any breed). Because of his background as a rodent hunter, the Westie often has a strong prey drive and will chase nearly any small animal he sees if he’s not on a leash. This can make living with smaller animals—such as rabbits or hamsters—tricky, though Westies can get along with cats when properly introduced. If this smart dog is not mentally stimulated enough, he can be an excessive barker in an attempt to entertain himself. But with patience and positive reinforcement, the West Highland White Terrier can be a well-mannered and adaptable family dog.