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West Highland White Terrier
Small Breed
The West Highland White Terrier, or more affectionately known as "Westie", is compact in size and houses a powerful robust physique.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Great Britain
Weight
7-10kg / 16-22lbs (standards may vary)
Height
28cm / 11in (standards may vary)
Coat
Double coated
Markings
Pure white. No markings
Lifespan
Average, 15 or more years
Matched with his spirited and independent nature, he is a determined hunter in the field. The West Highland White Terrier also makes an excellent companion. The breed is playful, devoted to his family, self-reliant yet friendly.
Temperament
The West Highland White Terrier is alert, lively, courageous, self-reliant but friendly. The compact little terrier is amiable and playful, with great sense of self-esteem. This breed is known and respected for being devoted to his family.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
West Highland White Terriers are magnificent, distinctive characters with a bold stance and playful nature.
- Makes an excellent family pet.
- Excels as a watchdog.
- Acclimates well to most climates.
- Very light shedding of coat.
- A good pet for novice owners
- Regular grooming is needed.
- Skilled trimming or stripping needed.
- Good for an apartment as can manage without a garden.
- Some lines are prone to skin conditions, Legg-Perthes disease, hernias, liver disease and jawbone calcification.