West Highland White Terrier
Smart, confident, and always entertaining at play, the adorable West Highland White Terrier (Westie, for short) has charmed owners for over 300 years. This diminutive but sturdy earthdog is among the most popular of the small terriers.
About the West Highland White Terrier
Standing 10 to 11 inches at the shoulder, with dark piercing eyes,
compact body, and a carrot-shaped tail wagging with delight, the
Westie’s looks are irresistible. Beneath the plush-toy exterior, though,
is a true working terrier of gameness and courage. Bred to hunt rats and
other underground rodents, Westies are surprisingly strong and tough.
The all-white double coat is hard to the touch, not soft and fluffy.
Alert and active, Westies exhibit traits of a plucky and self-reliant
ratting terrier: They require no pampering, they will chase after
anything that moves, and their independence can make training a
challenge. But, thanks to their faithfulness and keen intelligence,
Westies will train nicely with time and patience.