West Highland White Terrier
Description
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, hails from Scotland. This breed was crafted to stand out during hunts, sporting a bright white coat so hunters wouldn’t mistake it for foxes or badgers. They weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, compact but sturdy. Westies carry a bold, confident spirit. They’re lively and love chasing balls or exploring outdoors. Westies don’t shy away from attention. They’re affectionate with family and can be friendly toward strangers. Their independent streak sometimes shows, but they’re always ready to play or go on a walk. Despite their small size, they pack a lot of personality and energy into every move.
Grooming
Westies have a double coat with medium-length hair that sheds heavily during spring and fall. Brush them three times a week to keep mats at bay and remove loose hair. During shedding seasons, use an undercoat rake to pull out dead fur. Bathe your Westie every 4 to 6 weeks, then blow-dry to help loosen the undercoat and reduce shedding. Their pure white coat can show dirt quickly, so regular cleaning around the face and paws keeps them looking sharp. - Brush 3× weekly; increase during shedding - Use undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry to de-shed - Spot clean face and paws as needed Pro tip: Blow-drying after baths not only dries the coat but also helps fluff the fur, making it easier to spot tangles and keep the white coat bright.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Westies need about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. They love to explore and sniff, so give them time to check out their surroundings. Short bursts of play during walks keep them engaged and happy. Their bold nature means they might bark at new sights or sounds, so consistent leash training helps. Example routine: - Morning: 35-minute brisk walk with a few fetch breaks - Evening: 35-minute stroll with time to sniff and explore Stick to this plan to keep your Westie fit and mentally sharp. They thrive on routine and enjoy the chance to burn off energy outdoors.
Boarding
When boarding a Westie, provide a crate sized 30 to 36 inches to give them enough room to stretch and turn comfortably. They’re playful and curious, so staff should plan two active play sessions daily, mixing in scent or brain games to keep their minds busy. Westies respond well to slow, calm introductions with new people and animals to avoid stress. A predictable routine helps them settle in quickly. Staff should note their bold personality and be ready for some barking, especially when meeting new dogs or hearing unfamiliar noises. Regular interaction and enrichment keep Westies happy and prevent boredom during their stay.