Dog Breeds > West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is very well known for having a pure white coat. They original came from Scotland and have been commonly called as Westies. It is very popular that this dog breed has been used as models for several brands, including Cesar dog food, Juicy Coutoure, Radley and Black & White Scotch Whisky.
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Fascinating Facts
The West Highland White Terrier was formerly known as Poltalloch Terrier, after an estate located in the Argyll region of Scotland. During the early 20th century, the breed was brought to the United States under the name Roseneath Terrier. The main purpose of breeding Westies at that time was to control the growing population of rodents and foxes.
Physical Appearance
The Westies is a relatively small dog that stands from 9 inches up to 12 inches tall. It can weigh from 13 pounds to 22 pounds. The small height is due to its short legs, although it is not too short that its head reaches the ground – just short enough to look very cute. Albeit small, these legs are muscular, allowing them to run around energetically. Although small, the body of the dog is still well proportioned. The ears are triangular and stand erect on top of the skull.
Grooming
The dog has a thick double coat. The undercoat is quite dense, while the top coat can grow up to 2 inches long. There is no variation in coat color as the Westies don white coats. It sheds little hair, hence it is a friendly pet for those who are prone to allergies. A brush with stiff bristles is highly recommended for use. The coat should be trimmed once every four months.
Give it a bath only when needed. Frequent bathing may cause dryness on its coat. Furthermore, Westies are know for having dry skin problems and some allergies as well, which could be worsened by frequent bathing.
Mood
The dog is friendly even with strangers who are accompanied by the owner or trainor. Despite being small, they can be good watchdogs. They are also pretty confident about themsleves and don’t grow weary or angry towards other dogs. If you like to travel, bringing this type of dog around won’t be too hard as it is pretty comfortable in moving vehicles.
Westies appreciate dog treats, although it would be best to give them treats in large portions so that they would chew on it first. This dog would sometimes just swallow a small piece without chewing, causing this piece to be stuck in its throat.
With Children
This terrier gets along very well with children. However, make sure the children are taught not to carry the dog around so that it will not develop Small Dog Syndrome.
Training & Exercise
This dog can live fully in an apartment that has no yard, given that they are walked daily. If the dog doesn’t get walked enough daily, it might develop behavioral problems. As it likes dog treats, the trainor can use this as prize during dog training.
Health & Life Expectancy
Always allow your Westy to have long hours of sleep, as they need 13 hours of sleep a day. A well-cared for West Highland White Terrier can live an average of 15 years. Common health problems include chronic hernia, skin allergies, jawbone calcification, liver diseases and some hip problems.
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