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Properly groomed, with the round chrysanthemum face, jaunty attitude and low slung body, the Westie is distinctive and charming with a unique, yet completely Terrier attitude. With an easier going approach to life than some other Terrier breeds, the Westie was not shorted on courage, intelligence or cleverness. Fabulously entertaining and devoted to their family, the well reared Westie is truly a joyful companion as indicated by the proud fanciers of the breed.
Overall Appearance: Powerful, sturdy and well muscled, though small dog. Longer in body than leg. Distinctive all white harsh, rough coat.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: high
General Nature:
alert, self-reliant but friendly, independent, entertaining
with Children: generally good if properly socialized, with well behaved children and supervision
with other pets: unreliable bred to hunt vermin after all
with dogs: variable with each individual
Socialization requirements: moderately high: the self reliant nature of the breed can lead to difficulties with aggression, shyness or total independence if not properly reared
Ideal home characteristics: Appreciates the active nature, curiousity and affectionate yet independent nature of the breed
Training requirement: moderate: socialization and basic manners
Trainer notes:
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: 1800s
Country of Origin: Scotland
Original Function: vermin hunters
History: Legend has it that a landowner kept a pack of small terriers, one red dog was shot mistaken as a fox and he swore to breed true white to prevent that from happening again.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard:
Health Notes: White Shakers, Westie Lung Disease, Skin problems, Heart Problems, liver problems, Legg-Calve-Perthes, eye problems, kidney problems, luxating patellas, IBD, hip dysplasia, diabetes, GCL, CMO, Addisons
Health Testing: OFA, CERF, heart and lung evaluation
