Help your Westie to love life

With their dark, wide-set eyes peeking cheekily out from a substantial set of eyebrows, pricked-up ears and jaunty tail, set high on their compact body, West Highland White Terriers are exactly how they look – solid, smart and sassy. 

“West Highland White Terriers are charming, confident, and determined little dogs,” says Sue Ketland, Dog Behaviour and Training Specialist at rehoming charity Woodgreen. “They have a larger-than-life personality in a tiny body and aren’t afraid to have their voice heard! A Westie’s affectionate and playful nature makes them delightful companions.”

“Fun-loving, cheerful and active, the West Highland White Terrier is inquisitive, independent, and makes a good family pet and playmate for those with younger children,” notes insurer Petplan. “Commonly known as a ‘Westie’, this is one of the most popular of the terrier breeds.” 

“Confident, alert and friendly, the Westie is a popular choice due to their friendly nature and size,” says Your Dog. “Westies are clever and loving dogs who do really well in a family environment,” adds veterinary charity PDSA. “They’re eager to please, which makes them a popular choice with first-time owners. They make very popular companion dogs as they love people so much.”

What’s the best food for a Westie puppy? >>

Where do West Highland White Terriers come from?

This proudly Scottish breed hails, unsurprisingly, from the Highlands, where their bright white coat enabled them to be easily seen when out on the murky, windswept moors. 

According to the Royal Kennel Club, which officially recognised the breed in 1907, the West Highland White was developed from Cairn Terriers in the mid-19^th century by the Malcolm family in Argyllshire as a robust and courageous working terrier.

“They were not required for burrowing into soft, sandy earths, but rather to follow fox, otter and badger up and down screes, under, over and between rocks,” states the West Highland White Terrier Club. “For this work, they had to be game, hardy, agile and sure-footed, able to spring from rock to rock.”

Given their heritage, it’s no wonder that these tenacious little dogs are naturally inquisitive, with an in-built desire to explore every nook and cranny with great enthusiasm. 

Are Westies hypoallergenic?

With a short, wiry coat that sheds less than some breeds, Westies are sometimes considered suitable for those with allergies. However, Petplan urges: “It’s important to remember that no dog is totally hypoallergenic, but there are some breeds that are better for allergy-sufferers than others.”

What’s the best food for West Highland White Terriers? >>

Understanding what makes your Westie tick will help you give them everything they need to love life! Read on to discover more about:

• WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER PERSONALITY PROFILE
• IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?
• HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER NEED?
• WHAT SHOULD I FEED A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?
• HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER NEED?
• WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?
• GETTING A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER PERSONALITY PROFILE

If you want an energetic, highly affectionate dog that’s small in size and big in personality – and who likes to think for themself – then a Westie could be your canine of choice.

“Westies are lively, outgoing, and super-lovable little dogs,” says Sue Ketland. “They can often be found curled up on their favourite person’s lap, not realising quite how heavy they are! They’ll demand snuggles any time of the day, nudging and whining at you for scritches and a massage.”

“They make the perfect companion for anyone looking for a best friend and form strong bonds with their owners,” adds PDSA.

However, it doesn’t take much for these determined little characters to get up to mischief!

“They were bred to hunt animals underground. For this reason, they’re naturally feisty as well as being strong-willed, independent, and driven,” notes Sue Ketland. “They can be quite mischievous when they’re feeling energetic.”

“Always on the lookout for something fun to do, this busy little dog is guaranteed to make you smile,” adds Petplan. “Indoors and outdoors, Westies are very different dogs. Calm and quiet in the house, these fun-loving dogs will relish a run around outside.”

Crate training a Westie puppy – make it their special place >>

Westies, like all terriers, keep one ear open at all times and will comment on anything that catches their attention. “Their alert nature means they’re always tuned in to any intruders or interesting things outside,” says Sue Ketland. “They make excellent watchdogs and will alert you to strangers approaching your house,” adds Your Dog. 

“Terriers have a reputation for being vocal, and the Westie is no exception,” notes Petplan. “Socialisation will help to keep the barking to a minimum, but this is a breed that likes to bark.”

However, managing their natural inclination to sound off about stuff is achievable: “Westies aren’t afraid to make their voice heard, but they aren’t especially barky or vocal dogs,” reveals Sue Ketland. “With proper training and socialisation, you should be able to easily manage and prevent excessive barking.”

While each breed has certain identifiable traits, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique.

Dogs Trust advises: “Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. So, every Westie temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to situations in different ways. For example, some dogs might like meeting other dogs, and some may not. Some might like new experiences, and others may need to go slowly.”

Want just YOUR dog to come when you call them? Choose their name wisely! >>

IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?

To create a perfect canine/human partnership, it’s vital to think about what kind of energy and temperament you’d like your four-pawed friend to have so you’re a good match for each other – and that you can provide a suitable environment. Be aware that Westies have plenty of pep and love to chase, dig and explore!

“Westies adapt easily to a variety of home environments,” says PDSA, which notes that they can enjoy either countryside or city living as long as they get enough exercise. 

“Westies thrive in homes where they get plenty of attention, exercise, and brain games to keep them satisfied and content – otherwise, they may become ‘self-employed’ and come up with their own jobs like barking at passers-by or digging up your garden!” notes Sue Ketland. “A house with a secure garden is ideal for a busy Westie to burn off their energy and explore in a safe, secure space. However, they can adapt to living in a flat if they’re taken outside for exercise.” 

“Thanks to their small size, Westies are very skilled at squeezing themselves through the smallest of holes. A Westie-proof garden is a must!” adds PDSA. “As a natural-born digger, many Westies will try and dig for freedom if your garden is not secure,” notes Petplan.

Westies don’t like being left home alone

Because they love people so much, Westies will often struggle if they’re left on their own. 

“As they form such strong bonds with their owners, Westies often suffer with separation anxiety,” says PDSA. “Ideally, there should be someone around all day with your Westie. If they are alone for too long, they are likely to make a lot of noise and could start chewing things around the home.”

“A bored Westie may become destructive, so it’s best not to leave them for longer than a few hours and have someone check in on them whilst you’re out,” adds Petplan.

Westies can be great companions for children

Outgoing all-rounders, Westies are ideal for families. 

“Westies can make excellent family dogs with their affectionate nature and playful personalities,” says Sue Ketland. “While they are good with children and small, they’re still pretty sturdy and heavy enough to knock them down if they get excited. You should always watch your dog closely around kids and don’t leave them in the same room together unattended.”

“Westies are affectionate and playful pets, which makes them ideal for families with children of any age,” adds PDSA. “This said, you should always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults and make sure to put a stop to playtime if it starts getting too boisterous.”

The family dog – making it work for pets and children >>

A Westie may not be the best choice if you have small furries

As they were designed to be working terriers, always on the hunt for prey and ready to give chase, Westies and small furries are not a good mix.

“Westies’ high prey drive means they may not get along well with small pets like hamsters or rabbits,” advises Sue Ketland. “They can usually do well with other dogs and even cats if properly socialised from a young age.”

“If they have grown up with a cat in the home, they’ll be fine with that cat, but you should always supervise your dog around other pets,” adds PDSA.

Can cats and dogs be friends? >>

Meeting your Westie’s needs will make for a contented dog

If you’re prepared to commit to regular training, leisurely nature rambles and thinking up lots of games to entertain your Westie – who will love to sniff, dig and chase and isn’t scared to stand up for themselves – you’ll have a very happy, contented dog. 

“Digging is natural for them, but if this isn’t controlled with a suitable outlet, you may find them digging in the garden, carpet, or under fences,” says Sue Ketland. “Clever, confident, and curious, they enjoy long walks exploring nature and taking part in activities that challenge their minds, like puzzle toys and fun training sessions.”

“Loveable as they are, Westies can be extremely determined and strong-willed, so socialisation and training are really important, so they don’t feel the need to bark at larger dogs or grow into unmanageable adults,” advises PDSA. “It’s important to socialise your Westie from a young age with lots of different people, dogs and experiences. This will help their fun-loving personalities develop.”

Which breed of dog is the right fit for you and the place that you live? >>

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER NEED?

Outdoorsy Westies need stimulating daily walks – with patience required to allow for lots of stops to sniff, snuffle and investigate – plus plenty of playtime and the chance to run around to burn off energy.  

“Westies need around 40 to 60 minutes of exercise each day,” advises Sue Ketland. “This should ideally include sniffy walks in nature alongside play and training sessions to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated.”

“Westies are surprisingly energetic and really enjoy lots of playtime with their owners,” says PDSA, which recommends a couple of half-hour walks a day and time off-lead in a secure area to run around. 

“This playful breed loves games, especially if they link to their terrier roots. Think of games like sniffing, hunting, chasing, tugging, and digging,” adds Sue Ketland. “Playtime is essential for their wellbeing, keeping them happy and helping to burn off excess energy. Whether it’s a game of fetch or interactive toys, Westies are always up for some fun.”

“At playtime, try a treasure hunt. Bury your Westie’s favourite toy or treat in some sand and let them dig it up,” suggests Petplan.

How much exercise do different dog breeds need? >>

WHAT SHOULD I FEED A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?

Experts agree that choosing high-quality, complete food and monitoring food portions is the best way to keep your Westie happy, healthy and in great shape. 

“You’ll need to feed them a complete, balanced dog food to keep them slim and healthy,” says PDSA. “Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Westie should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food.”

Burgess in-house vet, Dr Suzanne Moyes MVB MRCVS, who oversees recipe development and product production, advises: “When choosing food for West Highland White Terriers, bear in mind that the optimum diet for your dog should supply the correct number of calories and balance of nutrients for their life stage and lifestyle. This means calculating the nutrient content and dietary components such as protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals required. All Burgess Dog Food is a complete food. This means, whatever variety you choose for your Westie, it will contain all the nutrients they need in the correct balance.”

The benefits of feeding a diet specially developed for dogs who suffer from allergies

Westies can be prone to allergies. Your Dog notes: “Skin complaints are a common problem in the breed, but other than that, they are generally a healthy dog.”

“Like other dogs, Westies can suffer from allergies that lead to dermatitis (skin inflammation),” adds Petplan. “Allergies can be caused by many different items, including things that are inhaled (such as pollen or dust mites), items that are eaten (for example, wheat, items that the dog comes into contact with (for example, washing powders), or bites from parasites such as fleas.”

Westies are also known for having digestion issues. “Westies have particularly sensitive stomachs and can be prone to food allergies and diabetes, so the right diet is crucial,” advises Petplan. “Many Westies do best on a hypoallergenic diet.”

Choosing a food that’s specially designed for dogs with sensitivities or allergies could help.

Dr Moyes adds: “Dogs with delicate digestions or who suffer from allergies need sensitive dog food that’s made without ingredients known to cause upset tummies and skin issues. These ingredients can include beef, eggs, dairy, wheat, maize, and soya. For many canines with allergies, switching to a sensitive or hypoallergenic variety, depending on what your vet recommends, can make a world of difference to them.”

Lamb? Turkey? Salmon? Your dog can try them all with our Burgess Sensitive Bundle >>

Choose a diet tailored to your dog’s life stage

Your Westie will also benefit from feeding a variety of food that’s designed to meet their nutritional requirements throughout their life.

Puppies need extra energy and other nutrients to support rapid growth. For adult dogs, providing a nutritionally balanced, complete diet will help keep them in tip-top condition during the prime of their life. Many older dogs, including Westies, develop specific conditions, such as arthritis – some of which can be eased by feeding a diet designed just for them.

Westie feeding tips

• Split your Westie’s daily allowance into two meals and try to feed your dog at the same time every day, as canines like routine.
• Measure out precise portion sizes. Recommended feeding amounts can be found on dog food packaging, but always ask your vet if you’re not sure. 
• Giving your dog a little more than they need means they could become overweight. If you don’t feed enough, your dog will not get all the nutrients they need and will become underweight. 
• Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising.
• If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake, as this can unbalance their diet.

Sue Ketland shares her top tip for feeding Westies: “They love eating their food in interesting ways, like from puzzle feeders or through training, rather than just from a boring bowl. You can also scatter their food around the garden or hide it around the house for them to sniff out.”

Human food that you should never give to dogs >>

HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER NEED?

To keep their snowy-white coat looking its best, your Westie will require regular brushing and trips to a professional groomer.

“Westies have quite thick fur which can quickly get matted, particularly around their face and legs,” says PDSA. “They’ll need brushing a few times a week to keep the coat in good condition.”

“Westies have a wiry coat that requires brushing a few times a week,” adds Sue Ketland. “A slicker or a pin brush are the best tools for the job of keeping loose hair and dirt at bay, and to prevent matting in longer sections. You should also comb through their fur to make sure they’re tangle-free. Westies also need professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain their signature look through hand-stripping or clipping.”

And, as these dogs love exploring the great outdoors, they’ll often bring bits of it back with them!

“You may need to bath your Westie if they’ve rolled in something while out walking. Westies are known to suffer from skin allergies, so speak to your vet before buying a shampoo,” advises PDSA, which also recommends protecting their light-coloured ears from getting sunburnt with dog-friendly sunscreen during the summer months.

“To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introduce it in a positive way, one step at a time,” recommends Dogs Trust. “Teaching your dog to feel relaxed and confident will make grooming more enjoyable for everyone.”

The top dog grooming guide >>

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER?

When it comes to training any dog, it’s all about creating a positive learning experience, so they’re keen to learn and grow in confidence. And, when it comes to West Highland White Terriers, you’ll have a bright, eager-to-please pupil with a stubborn streak!

“Westies are quite easy to train. They're intelligent, eager to please, and can learn quickly, but might choose to ignore commands if they don’t see the benefit,” says Sue Ketland. “Like all terriers, they were bred to be able to think for themselves and make decisions without checking in with their owner first. Because they’re so independent, they benefit from reward-based training using their favourite treats or toys.”

“This intelligent breed is a quick learner and loves training, as long as they know what’s in it for them!” adds Petplan. “This breed can get bored easily, so keep training sessions short. Positive reinforcement is key to training your Westie – just make sure not to overdo it on the treats to avoid unhealthy weight gain.”

“They’re clever little dogs but can sometimes be wilful with training, so a firm but fair attitude and consistency is a must,” notes PDSA. “We’d recommend taking your dog to accredited training classes if you’re a first-time owner or don’t have much experience of training dogs.”

For these independent thinkers who like to make their own decisions, practising a reliable recall is especially important, or you’ll not see your wilful Westie for dust.

“Westies can be very motivated to chase, sniff, and explore when out and about. If they spot a small animal like a squirrel or cat, they’ll find it hard to focus on you and won’t be as inclined to come back when called,” warns Sue Ketland.

Learn to read the signs that reveal how your four-legged pal is feeling and what they’re trying to tell you >>

“It’s all about positive learning,” says Dogs Trust. “So, find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Whether it’s treats, toys or lots of praise, training with rewards is the best way for your dog to learn. Learning useful life skills such as recall, loose lead walking, and settling are just as important. This ensures that you and your dog can spend an enjoyable time together, both at home and out and about.”

For expert advice and practical training guidance, visit Dogs Trust Dog School >>

GETTING A WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

Always look for a reputable breeder whose priority is the dog’s health and wellbeing rather than making a profit.

“Do plenty of research before getting a Westie. These fun-loving and affectionate dogs need lots of time and attention from their owners,” advises PDSA. “If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. It’s really important that Westie puppies from a breeder get the right early socialisation, so always ask the breeder about how they go about this.”

‘Lucy’s Law’ dictates that new puppies or kittens must be bought directly from a breeder or adopted from a rescue organisation. Third-party sellers are illegal.

The comprehensive puppy checklist >>

Alternatively, there are a number of rescue organisations around the country, including Dogs Trust, Woodgreen and Battersea, who would love to hear from you. Staff will seek to match you with the right dog for your home and lifestyle and provide you with support and useful information. Also check out Westie Rescue UK (and Westie Rescue UK’s Facebook page), Westies In Need, Westie ReHoming and Westie Lifeline Rescue UK. 

By choosing a rescue Westie, you’ll be giving one of these loyal, affectionate, life-enhancing dogs a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life.

Dogs Trust adds: “Whatever the breed, all dogs need basic preventative health care like vaccinations and flea and worming treatments. You’ll also need insurance to help cover the cost of vet bills.”

The best breed of dog is rescue >>

NEED MORE ADVICE?

If you’re at all unsure about the best way of feeding your dog or have any concerns about specific nutritional requirements, ask your local veterinary practice for advice. You can also call our expert team, available 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, on +44 (0)1405 862241 who’ll be happy to help. Alternatively, use our online contact form to get in touch.

CARE MORE Find lots of useful advice on caring for your dog from Burgess, the pet experts >> 

Is your dog a Burgess dog? Join the Burgess Pet Club for exclusive offers, competitions and expert advice from our in-house vet, Dr Suzanne Moyes.

SOMETHING TASTY FOR EVERY DOG – PREMIUM DOG FOOD WITHOUT THE PREMIUM PRICE! 

Every dog deserves a first-class dinner from puppy to adult and senior. Burgess Pet Care is a British, family-owned company, and all our dog foods are made using only ingredients that meet our stringent specifications.We’ve also developed foods to meet the specific nutritional needs of sporting and working dogs, Greyhounds and Lurchers and dogs with sensitivities. 

GOOD TO KNOW 

• COMPLETE NUTRITION Each of the recipes in the Burgess Dog Food range are complete, providing all the nutrients dogs require in the right proportions.
• PORTION CONTROL With dry food, it’s easy to measure out the right-sized portion to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. 
• HEALTHY AND SAFE The thorough cooking process ensures that any harmful bacteria, such as salmonella, and viruses are destroyed, and the dry food stays fresh inside the pack.
• TEETH FRIENDLY Dry dog food has the added benefit of exercising your dog’s chewing muscles and provides a mild cleaning effect on the teeth.
• MADE IN BRITAIN Crafted at Burgess Pet Care’s own factory in the heart of Yorkshire, Burgess Dog Food contains high-quality ingredients that meet stringent specifications, locally sourced wherever possible to support British farmers.

With a whole host of *5 STAR REVIEWS*, our customers have told us:

* “An excellent dog food, definitely a market-leading brand. My dog thrives on it, no upset stomach ever.” * “Our dogs just love it, and it keeps them happy.” * “Good value, wholesome food.” * “Edward (dog) is in raptures over this, he just can't get enough of it.” * “Our Ruby loves this food. In fact, she tries to open the food bin to steal it. That’s proof enough.” * “My dogs love it, it satisfies them, so it makes them happy and contented which makes me happy as they are thriving on it.” * “A leader amongst dog foods.” *