Westie Puppies Blog

Yes, if you would like to have a small, good-mannered and intelligent dog that is also quiet, playful and loves to be cuddled. The West Highland White Terrier (or Westie) is very much devoted to their family, is eager to defend the house at all cost, so they can also become good watchdogs. This breed loves older, considerate children, but don’t like other dogs and pets around themselves in the house. These dogs need at least a small yard to play, because they are full of energy, so they are not recommended for apartment living. The Westie needs at least one hour of exercise per day and a chance to dig in the yard.

The coat of the Westie is a wiry, short and straight double coat that requires twice weekly brushing. They are moderate shedders. Sadly, the breed is prone to health issues like deafness, allergies or craniomandibular osteopathy.

Training the Westie is somewhat hard, as these dogs can easily become bored if the trainer is not able enough and is not training the dog with consistency, patience and firmness. Early obedience training and socialization is recommended for this dog.

All in all, the Westie is the best dog for families with older children living in a small house who would like to have a furry little friend that is loving, spirited and always behave like a real friend.

I hope these few sentences will help you decide whether the Westie is the best breed for you.

Westies are definitely “big dogs in little bodies”. They are oh so willful! It is a known fact that terriers the most willful type of dogs, and Westies are the most willful of all terriers!! So you must establish rules of behavior, just as you do with children. A firm “No!” should eventually get your point across. Westies are extremely intelligent, so training MAY be relatively easy. It isn’t that they don’t understand what you want. It is just a simple case of whether they CHOOSE to obey. Stubborn is their middle name!

Some Westies may come off as indifferent. Not unfriendly, just indifferent. Others openly love everyone, especially kids. So you could get either kind, or one with an in-between temperament. Don’t let anyone tell you that Westies aren’t good around kids. They really love children. That certain attitude and bullheadedness that can only really be labelled as”Westitude” is so unique to all Westies! Please do keep in mind that Westies, like with most breeds, socialization is absolutely essential. Familiarize your puppy with his or her world and new environment as soon as possible, although gradually. Meeting other dogs on walks as well as neighbors will make your Westie a self-confident member of the family. Watch for that Westie strut!! They will make you laugh that’s for sure!