When it comes to adorable and adventurous dog breeds, it’s hard to overlook the West Highland Terrier, often affectionately referred to as the “Westie.” With their distinctive white coats, lively personalities, and undeniable charm, Westies have captivated the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of the West Highland Terrier.
A Brief History:
The West Highland Terrier originated in Scotland. Its history can be traced back to the rugged regions of the West Highlands and is closely intertwined with the development of other terrier breeds in the region. The West Highland Terrier’s ancestors can be traced back to the 17th century when Scottish terriers were commonly used for hunting and rodent control. These early terriers were valued for their fearless and tenacious nature, as they excelled at going after small game, including rats, foxes, and badgers. They were essential to farmers and landowners in the region, as they helped keep their properties free from vermin.
The Malcolms of Poltalloch in Argyllshire developed a white strain of Cairn Terriers in the mid-19th century. In the 1800’s, Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch, was hunting with a pack of Cairn Terriers when he accidently shot his favourite dog after mistaking it for a rabbit or fox. After this he vowed only to hunt with white dogs, which could easily be seen, even when obscured by foliage. Some Cairn terriers and Scottish terriers are born white and up until this point, many breeders of Cairn Terriers had been in the practice of culling any white puppies. These lighter terriers were bred from, until the offspring were consistently white. The West Highland Terrier was eventually developed to become a little shorter in the body and have a higher tail carriage then the Cairn terrier.
Early names for the breed were the Polalloch terrier and the Roseneath terrier, named after a strain developed on the Duke of Argyll’s Roseneath Estate. In 1907, the first show for the breed was held at Crufts in London. Originally the West Highland Terrier was registered as the Roseneath Terrier, however the name was changed to West Highland White Terrier on May 31st 1909.
The West Highland Terrier gained international recognition in the early 20th century and quickly became a sought-after companion dog worldwide. Its playful and outgoing nature, combined with its adorable looks, made it a beloved pet for families and individuals of all ages. Over the years, the West Highland Terrier continued to be refined through careful breeding programs, focusing on maintaining its distinct white coat, compact size, and friendly temperament. Today, the breed is recognised by major kennel clubs worldwide and is a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a small, spirited, and affectionate companion.
Physical Characteristics:
One of the Westie’s most recognisable features is its iconic white double coat. This dense, weather-resistant fur not only gives them their adorable teddy bear-like appearance but also helps protect them from the elements. They have a sturdy and compact build, with an average height of 25-28 centimetres and a weight range of 6-9 kilos. Their expressive dark eyes, erect ears, and confident gait give them an alert and lively appearance.
Personality and Temperament:
Westies are known for their lively and outgoing personalities. They are intelligent, curious, and full of spirit, making them a joy to be around. With proper socialisation and training, they can get along well with children and other pets, although they may exhibit some terrier-like stubbornness at times. Despite their small size, Westies possess a fearless nature that, combined with their loyalty and protective instincts, makes them excellent watchdogs.
Grooming Needs:
The West Highland Terrier’s luxurious white coat requires regular care to maintain its pristine appearance. Brushing their coat two to three times a week helps remove loose hair and prevent matting. Regular grooming appointments with a professional groomer are also recommended to keep their coat tidy and to have their nails trimmed. Additionally, Westies are prone to ear infections, so checking and cleaning their ears regularly is essential.
Health Considerations:
Overall, Westies are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of around 12-16 years. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Some common concerns include skin allergies, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and a genetic condition called Westie Lung Disease.
The West Highland Terrier is a bundle of energy, personality, and love wrapped in an irresistibly cute package. Their friendly and fearless nature, coupled with their striking appearance, makes them a popular choice for dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Fun Facts
West Highland Terriers require 1 hour of exercise a day.
West Highland Terriers are built to be able to burrowing underground to flush out game, their bullet shaped bodies and thinner, heart shaped thoraxes help then squeeze through tight spots and wriggle though underground caverns.
West Highland Terriers have sensitive ears, if they are spending a lot of time outside in the sun, they will need suncream.
*West Highland Terriers were bred to have big barks, so that hunters could hear their dogs barking underground.
*The West Highland Terrier was recognised by the U.K Kennel Club in 1907 and remains one of the popular breeds in the terrier group.
*The West Highland Terrier was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1908.
*West Highland terriers are the mascot of the dog food brand Cesar.