Breeds
West Highland White Terrier: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
A West Highland White Terrier is a bold, cheerful, affectionate little terrier with a big bark and an urge to dig. Westies are fun-loving family dogs that adapt to apartments if they get enough exercise, but they are independent, strong-willed and keen to chase anything small. Their white coat needs regular care. Here is what the AKC and VCA Animal Hospitals say about the breed.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Westie temperament and personality
The AKC describes Westies as tenacious, spirited and strong-willed, with a fearless streak, and says they bond closely with their families. VCA calls the breed affectionate and fun-loving but bold, watchful and often mischievous, friendly toward strangers and usually good with other dogs, though some can be scrappy.
Westies were bred in the Scottish Highlands to hunt vermin on farms and estates, the AKC says, and that history explains a lot: a loud, persistent bark, a strong urge to dig and a quick reaction to anything that scurries. Most are confident, cheerful dogs that love being part of family life.
How big do Westies get?
The AKC says females stand about 10 inches at the withers and males about 11 inches, and the breed standard sets those figures as the ideal. Neither the AKC article nor VCA's page gives a firm weight range, so ask your vet what a healthy weight is for your dog's frame.
Westies are compact, sturdy little dogs. VCA notes they tend to stay at a healthy weight or run slightly overweight, and that calories may need limiting if they start to gain. Feel for the ribs through the coat every few weeks.
Westie lifespan and common health issues
The AKC says Westies typically live 13 to 15 years, and VCA gives 12 to 14. VCA notes that some Westies need a special diet because of allergies or liver problems, and advises working with a vet to choose one. Skin and coat care is therefore part of everyday health for the breed.
Ask a breeder about skin, joint and eye checks in the parents and any health screening the national breed club recommends. Ask your vet how to spot early skin allergies. Constant scratching, red or smelly skin, or yellowing of the eyes or gums should be seen promptly.
Exercise needs
VCA says Westies need a long walk or a short run plus a vigorous game each day, and enjoy sniffing and exploring on a leash or in a safe place. The AKC says they need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation but can adapt to apartment life if they get it.
VCA warns that Westies may chase scents and ignore recall, so keep them leashed or in a secure area. The AKC suggests a sandbox or buried toys to give the digging instinct an outlet.
Westie grooming and shedding
The AKC says the coat is a medium-length, hard double coat that repels water and sheds dirt easily. VCA recommends combing two or three times a week and shaping every three months, and rates shedding as below average.
The AKC says pet owners often clip the coat every four to six weeks, while show dogs are hand-stripped. VCA adds that pet dogs are usually clipped. Keep the coat clean and brushed to protect the skin, trim nails regularly, check the ears and brush the teeth often.
Training a Westie
The AKC says Westies are smart but independent, so training works best with positive reinforcement and plenty of treats. VCA says they learn quickly but bore easily, and respond best to reward-based training using food or games.
Keep sessions short and fun. Work on recall on a long line, teach a quiet cue early and reward calm behavior at windows and doors. Patience matters more than force with a terrier that likes to think for itself.
Are Westies good with kids and other pets?
The AKC says Westies do well with respectful children, and VCA says they are playful and good with children. Teach children to play calmly and not to grab or tease, since a terrier will stand up for itself.
VCA says most Westies get along with other household pets, except rodents. Their hunting instinct means hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and rabbits should be kept safely apart. Most live happily with other dogs and cats they are raised with.
What a Westie needs at home
A securely fenced yard, a crate, a washable bed and a harness and leash for walks are the basics. A sandbox or digging spot, puzzle feeders and durable chew toys give a terrier somewhere to put its energy.
For the coat, keep a slicker brush, a metal comb, nail clippers, ear cleaner and a dog toothbrush, and budget for a professional groom every four to six weeks if you keep the coat clipped. Ask your vet about skin care and allergy signs early.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Westies live?
The AKC says Westies typically live 13 to 15 years, and VCA gives 12 to 14. Good skin care, a healthy weight and regular checkups help them stay well into their teens.
What is a Westie's temperament like?
The AKC describes Westies as tenacious, spirited and strong-willed, with a fearless streak and a close bond with family. VCA calls them affectionate, fun-loving and often mischievous.
How big do Westies get?
The AKC lists males at about 11 inches and females at about 10 inches, with a weight of 15 to 20 pounds.
Do Westies shed?
VCA rates shedding as below average. The hard double coat still needs combing two or three times a week, and pet Westies are usually clipped every four to six weeks.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
