The West Highland White Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in Scotland, commonly referred to as the ‘Westie’ for short.

West Highland White Terriers are a small breed; they stand between 10-11 inches and weigh in at 15-22 pounds. They have a harsh outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat, which is always solid white. Their ears are pointed and erect, and they have a full length tail that is not docked.

The West Highland White Terrier is closely related to the other Scottish Terriers, particularly the Cairn. Said to have been developed in Poltalloch, the breed was originally known as the Poltalloch Terrier. Legend goes that Colonel Edward Donald Malcom’s red terrier was mistaken for a fox when emerging from cover during a hunt and was shot. White pups were occasionally born in his litters and he began selectively breeding for that trait after the incident.

Originally shown as the Roseneath Terrier (after the Duke of Argyll’s estate) the breed was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1908. Their name would be changed to the West Highland White Terrier a year later in 1909.

West Highland White Terriers are lively dogs that get along well with children and other dogs. They get along well with cats if raised with them and properly trained. This breed enjoys being around its family and is generally easy to train. They make good watchdogs, but beware, as with most terriers they love to dig.

As a small breed, West Highland White Terriers have a fairly long lifespan of 15 or more years. They are prone to liver disease, Legg-Perthes disease, hernias, mandibular osteopathy and skin problems.

This breed will do fine living in any home from apartment to in the country as they are fairly active indoors. Despite the size (or lack) of yard they should still be taken on daily walks.

Their harsh double coat sheds little and requires short, regular brushing, but will also need to be trimmed about every four months and stripped twice a year.