The Vet’s Guide to West Highland White Terriers: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

West Highland White Terriers, fondly known as Westies, are a charming and spirited breed cherished for their playful nature and striking white coat. Whether you’re an experienced dog owner or simply considering adding a Westie to your family, understanding their unique characteristics and care needs is key to enjoying life with this delightful companion.

Background: Westies originated in the Scottish Highlands, where they were bred to hunt rodents and small game. Their distinctive white coat was intentionally selected to ensure they stood out against the rugged terrain, making them easily visible during hunts. The breed’s tenacity, intelligence, and adaptability quickly earned them a place not only in the hunting field but also in the hearts of families worldwide.

Appearance: Westies boast a distinctive look with their pure white double coat, perky ears, and expressive dark eyes. Their compact, sturdy build reflects their working heritage, while their wagging tail and cheerful demeanour signal their eagerness to engage with the world.

Physical Characteristics: Typically weighing between 7–9 kilograms and standing 25–28 centimetres tall at the shoulder, Westies are a small but robust breed. Their thick, weather-resistant double coat consists of a coarse outer layer and a soft undercoat, which helped protect them from harsh climates during their hunting days.

Temperament: Westies are known for their spirited, outgoing personalities. They are confident, curious, and full of energy, making them a lively addition to any household. Despite their independent streak, they are affectionate and loyal to their families. They get along well with children and can coexist with other pets, although their prey drive might make them a bit too interested in smaller animals.

Activity Level: Westies are an active breed that thrives on regular exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy daily walks, playtime in the yard, and interactive games that challenge their sharp minds. While they are adaptable to apartment living, they do best with opportunities to explore and burn off their abundant energy.

Health: Westies are generally healthy dogs, but they can be predisposed to certain breed-specific conditions, such as skin allergies, atopic dermatitis, and orthopedic issues like luxating patellas. Regular veterinary check-ups and proactive care can help manage these concerns and ensure your Westie stays happy and healthy.

Lifespan: With proper care, Westies typically enjoy a lifespan of 12–16 years. Their longevity is a testament to their robust nature and ability to thrive in various environments, provided their physical and emotional needs are met.

West Highland White Terriers are a delightful combination of charm, intelligence, and tenacity, making them an excellent choice for dog lovers who appreciate their unique personality and zest for life.

Proper grooming is essential for maintaining the health, comfort, and characteristic appearance of West Highland White Terriers. With their dense double coat, distinctive bright white colour, and energetic personality, regular grooming not only ensures they look their best but also helps prevent health issues such as skin irritations and infections.

Grooming Requirements: Westies have a coarse, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat that requires regular attention. Brush their coat two to three times a week to prevent matting and to reduce shedding. Using a slicker brush or grooming mitt can help remove loose hair and keep their coat looking tidy. Regular trimming every 6–8 weeks will help maintain their signature appearance, whether you choose professional hand-stripping or clippers for a more uniform finish.

Bathing: Bathing your Westie every 4–6 weeks is usually sufficient, but you may need to bathe them more often if they enjoy rolling in dirt or mud. Use a dog-specific whitening shampoo to maintain their coat’s pristine colour while avoiding products that can dry out their skin. Rinse thoroughly to prevent residue, which can cause itching. Introduce baths gradually and positively so your Westie associates bath time with comfort and care.

Dental Care: Westies are prone to dental issues due to their small jaws, which can lead to tartar buildup and gum disease. Brush their teeth two to three times a week using a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste. For dogs resistant to brushing, dental chews or water additives can help maintain oral hygiene. It's important to schedule a yearly dental check-up with your veterinarian to monitor their oral health. Professional cleanings may be recommended if significant tartar or gum issues are detected.

Clean Ears: Westies’ small, perky ears need regular cleaning to prevent ear infections. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton pads to gently remove debris and wax every two weeks or as needed. Check for signs of irritation, redness, or a foul odour, which may indicate an infection requiring veterinary attention.

Nail Trimming: Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and lead to mobility issues for your Westie. Trim their nails every 4–6 weeks or whenever you hear clicking sounds on hard surfaces. Use dog-specific nail clippers or grinders, and introduce the process slowly with treats and positive reinforcement to make it a stress-free experience for both of you.

West Highland White Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to specific health conditions. Understanding these potential concerns and recognising early symptoms can help you provide the best care for your furry companion.

Skin Allergies and Atopic Dermatitis: Westies are particularly prone to skin allergies, which can manifest as itching, redness, and hair loss. These allergies may be triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. Atopic dermatitis is another common condition, often requiring a combination of medicated shampoos, antihistamines, or prescription diets to manage.

Westie Lung Disease: Also known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, this breed-specific condition causes scarring in the lungs and affects older Westies. Symptoms include coughing, rapid breathing, and fatigue. While there is no cure, treatments such as medications and oxygen therapy can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Orthopedic Issues: Westies are susceptible to joint problems, including patellar luxation (dislocated kneecaps) and hip dysplasia. These conditions may cause lameness or difficulty moving. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint supplements, as recommended by your vet, can help reduce the risk of these issues.

Addison’s Disease: Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient hormones. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and weight loss. While it can be life-threatening if untreated, Addison’s disease is manageable with medication and regular monitoring once diagnosed.

Eye Conditions: Westies may develop eye conditions such as cataracts or dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). Symptoms include cloudy eyes, excessive tearing, or redness. Early detection and veterinary intervention can help preserve your Westie’s vision and comfort.

Dental Problems: Small breeds like Westies are prone to dental issues due to overcrowding in their mouths. Plaque buildup and gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Routine dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is essential to prevent these problems.

By staying proactive with regular vet visits, grooming, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, many of these conditions can be managed effectively, ensuring your Westie enjoys a long, happy life.

Training a West Highland White Terrier can be an enjoyable yet challenging experience due to their independent and confident nature. These intelligent dogs are quick learners, but their stubborn streak means they respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement training. Establishing yourself as a firm but kind leader will help ensure successful training sessions.

Consistency is Key: Westies thrive when training routines are clear and consistent. Set aside time each day to work on commands, starting with basic obedience such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Short training sessions (5–10 minutes) work best, as Westies can lose focus if sessions are too long or repetitive.

Positive Reinforcement: Westies respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement. Use treats, verbal praise, and affection to reward desired behaviours. High-value treats—such as small pieces of chicken or specially made training treats—can be especially motivating. Always reward immediately after the behaviour to create a strong association between the action and the reward.

Socialisation and Exposure: Early socialisation is crucial for Westies to develop into well-mannered adults. Introduce them to different people, pets, and environments during puppyhood to reduce the likelihood of fear or aggression later in life. Puppy classes are an excellent way to combine socialisation with training in a controlled environment.

Addressing Independence: Westies have a streak of independence, which can sometimes translate to stubbornness. Patience is essential when working with them. If your Westie is ignoring commands, avoid punishment, as it can cause frustration and resistance. Instead, take a break and return to training when both you and your dog are ready to re-engage positively.

By maintaining a structured and reward-based training approach, your Westie will not only learn essential commands but also build a stronger bond with you.

Keeping a West Highland White Terrier physically and mentally active is essential to their well-being. As a lively breed with a curious mind, Westies benefit from a variety of activities that challenge their instincts, intelligence, and energy levels.

Daily Walks: Regular walks are a must for Westies. Aim for at least two 20–30 minute walks each day to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Allow your Westie to sniff and explore during these walks, as it fulfils their natural hunting instincts and keeps them engaged.

Fetch and Tug-of-War: Interactive games like fetch and tug-of-war are excellent ways to exercise your Westie while strengthening your bond. Use durable, dog-safe toys for these activities, and always supervise playtime to ensure your pup stays safe.

Puzzle Toys and Enrichment Games: Westies are highly intelligent and love problem-solving. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and snuffle mats are great for keeping their minds sharp. Hide-and-seek games with toys or treats are another fun way to engage their hunting instincts while providing mental stimulation.

Agility and Obedience Training: Many Westies excel in canine sports such as agility and obedience trials. These activities challenge their minds and bodies, helping to burn off energy while boosting confidence. Look for local training clubs or events that offer opportunities to try out these activities.

Supervised Playtime with Other Dogs: If properly socialised, Westies often enjoy playing with other dogs of similar size and energy levels. Dog parks or arranged playdates can provide a safe environment for your Westie to interact and play. Keep a close eye on interactions to ensure your Westie doesn’t become overly assertive.

By incorporating a variety of activities into your Westie’s routine, you’ll help them stay happy, healthy, and well-behaved while enjoying countless moments of fun together.

West Highland White Terriers are lively and loving companions, but like all breeds, they can exhibit certain behavioural challenges. Understanding these tendencies and addressing them with proper training, patience, and guidance can help ensure a happy and harmonious relationship with your Westie.

Excessive Barking: Westies are naturally alert and vocal, making them excellent watchdogs. However, this can sometimes translate into excessive barking, especially when they’re bored or anxious. To curb this behaviour, identify the root cause—whether it’s boredom, fear, or excitement. Providing mental stimulation with toys and training them to respond to commands like "quiet" can help manage this trait. Reward them when they remain calm to reinforce the behaviour.

Digging: A throwback to their days as hunting dogs, Westies may have an instinctive desire to dig. This can become problematic if they start excavating your garden or yard. To redirect this behaviour, consider creating a designated digging area, such as a sandbox, where they can satisfy their instincts without causing damage. Reward them for using this area to encourage consistency.

Independence and Stubbornness: Westies are known for their independent streak, which can sometimes manifest as stubbornness during training or daily routines. Consistent and positive reinforcement-based training is key to managing this behaviour. Establish clear boundaries early on and remain patient; Westies thrive on structure and guidance when paired with praise and rewards.

Aggression Towards Other Animals: Westies have a strong prey drive and may display aggression toward smaller animals or unfamiliar dogs. Early socialisation is crucial to mitigate these tendencies. Introduce your Westie to various environments, people, and pets gradually, rewarding calm and friendly interactions. If aggression persists, consider consulting a professional trainer for specialised support.

Providing proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of your West Highland White Terrier. A balanced diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level can help ensure they thrive at every stage of life.

General Nutritional Needs: Westies require high-quality dog food that includes a good balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. Protein should be the primary ingredient to support their active lifestyle and muscle health. Look for dog food free from fillers, artificial additives, and by-products that can lead to allergies or digestive issues.

Portion control is also important to prevent obesity, a common concern in small breeds like Westies. Follow feeding guidelines provided by your dog food brand, and adjust portions based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level.

Puppy Nutrition Needs: Westie puppies have unique nutritional needs to support their rapid growth and development. Choose a puppy-specific formula that is rich in protein and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) to aid in brain development and a healthy coat. Puppies typically require three to four small meals a day to maintain steady energy levels.

Monitor their weight closely to avoid overfeeding, as excess weight during growth can strain developing joints. Transition to adult food around 12 months of age, following your vet’s recommendations.

Specific Nutritional Considerations

• Skin and Coat Health: Westies are prone to skin conditions and allergies. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed, can promote a healthy coat and reduce inflammation. Hypoallergenic diets may be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities.
• Dental Health: Small, crunchy kibble can help reduce tartar buildup, which is important for Westies prone to dental issues.
• Weight Management: Westies can easily gain weight, which can exacerbate joint issues. Avoid overfeeding and provide low-calorie treats during training sessions to maintain a healthy weight.

By providing a well-balanced diet and monitoring their specific needs, you’ll help ensure your Westie enjoys a long, healthy, and active life.

West Highland White Terriers are a delightful and rewarding breed to care for, and we hope this guide has helped you better understand their needs. While this is a great starting point for understanding Westies, continue seeking knowledge from trusted sources to ensure you’re meeting their needs. Share your experiences with other Westie enthusiasts and keep learning about their unique traits, temperament, and how to provide the best life for your beloved companion.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe