The West Highland White Terrier is not a breed for everyone, read through
this page and see if you are interesting in purchasing a West Coast Westie.
Appearance:
Westies are an all white (As per the name) terrier that seems
to have limitless amounts of energy. Their ears are small, but standing erect, can give the "always alert" look. Their tails
should stand erect, with the shape much like a carrot. The tail should never be docked. The coat is one of the most important
features. Its two-inch coat shouldn't curl, and they also have a softer undercoat. The harder, dry coat enables the Westie
to withstand the elements. Because the hard coat isn't oily, it helps reduce the "doggy" smell that other breeds have.
Westies are a non-shedding breed and need to be clipped or hand stripped to maintain their appearance.
Personality:
Westies can be very stubborn at times, and have to be taught
at an early age that they aren't the boss. However, once they know who's who, they'll be loyal for life. Being the people
oriented dog that they are, Westies can make very good company. They are clever though, and some owners have given them the
title "Escape Artists", so you may want to consider investing in a high quality fence.
But truly, the Westie just loves people and they are a very
devoted little dog. There is a reason why they are the most popular breed in Great Britain. Mostly for their loyalty
I think. They are a great family dog and can adapt to most living situations, as long as they get lots of attention
and love.
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History:
How the Westie came to be selectively
bred for his white coat is an interesting legend. The short-legged terriers of Scotland are now recognized as the Scottish, Skye, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, and West Highland
White Terriers. All undoubtedly descend from the same roots. All of these dogs were valued as intrepid hunters of small game.
Originally, their coat colors ranged from black to red to cream or white. Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm, of Poltalloch, Argyllshire,
Scotland, is generally credited with breeding the white dogs true, although he took none
of the credit unto himself. He had kept a pack of light colored working terriers for hunting. As the legend goes, a reddish
dog of his, emerging from cover, was mistakenly shot for a fox. Malcolm is said to have decided on the spot to breed only
for white dogs that could be readily identified in the field.
The breed was listed
officially as the West Highland White Terrier in 1907 at the Crufts dog show in England. The name was chosen for the rugged character of the dogs and the area of their development. The West Highland White
Terrier Club of America was founded in 1909. It is a member club of the American Kennel Club. The Club’s annual meetings
and specialty shows are held in conjunction with the Montgomery County Kennel Club Show at Ambler, Pennsylvania in October. In addition, the club holds a national Roving Specialty Show each year with one of the regional clubs
acting as host.
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