What is the temperament of a West Highland White Terrier?

West Highland White Terriers are known to be hardy, friendly, alert, independent, gay, active, courageous. This combination of traits makes them wonderful companions for most households. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a West Highland White Terrier need?

West Highland White Terriers are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my West Highland White Terrier?

West Highland White Terriers require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a West Highland White Terrier?

West Highland White Terriers are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are West Highland White Terriers good with children?

West Highland White Terriers are moderately good with children. They can adapt well to family life when properly socialized with children. Teaching children to respect the dog's boundaries and supervising interactions will help ensure a positive relationship. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the West Highland White Terrier unique compared to other dog breeds?

The West Highland White Terrier stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from Scotland, exceptional hunting abilities. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a West Highland White Terrier?

Before bringing a West Highland White Terrier into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (4/5) with regular grooming sessions. They're typically highly trainable (5/5) and eager to learn. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized West Highland White Terrier. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were West Highland White Terriers originally bred for?

West Highland White Terriers were originally bred for fox, badger, vermin hunting. This hunting background explains their natural prey drive, scenting abilities, and often high energy levels. As part of the Terrier group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your West Highland White Terrier's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern West Highland White Terriers are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do West Highland White Terriers typically live?

The average lifespan of a West Highland White Terrier is 15 - 20 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some West Highland White Terriers may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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West Highland White Terrier

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Hardy, Friendly, Alert, Independent, Gay, Active, Courageous

Weight

15 - 22 lbs

Height

10 - 11 inches

Life Span

15 - 20 years

Breed Group

Terrier

Bred For

Fox, badger, vermin hunting

Origin

Scotland

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children3/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability5/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs4/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements4/5

They have high grooming needs requiring frequent brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability5/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children3/5

They are moderately good with children, especially when properly socialized.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

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Overview

About the West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Fox, badger, vermin hunting

Temperament

Hardy, Friendly, Alert, Independent, Gay, Active, Courageous

How We Find Similar Breeds

We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

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West Highland White Terrier

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About the West Highland White Terrier

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