Characteristics of a west highland terrier
What are West Highland Terriers known for?
West Highland white terriers are known for their outstanding white coats, compact bodies and spunky personalities. These sturdy little dogs make wonderful, loyal companions. Westies originated in the rocky regions of Scotland where they were bred to hunt badgers, foxes and other vermin.
Do Westies have a good temperament?
Westies are good-natured and loving family pets who adapt well to both countryside and city living as long as they get enough exercise. They’re clever and so can pick up on new things quickly. They’re eager to please which makes them a popular choice with first time owners.
How do Westies show affection?
Staffies, who are known as the ‘waggiest’ of breeds, show affection by enjoying a belly rub from their owners, while Westies demonstrate their love through licking, jumping and pawing.
Are Westies cuddly dogs?
Are West Highland White Terriers cuddly? While all West Highland Terries are affectionate, loyal and responsive breeds, some Westies prefer constant cuddles more than others — and will love curling up on your lap at the end of the day.
Are Westies high maintenance?
West Highland White Terrier
If you’re considering a small- to medium-sized dog for your new easygoing companion, a Westie makes an excellent pet. Most are moderately energetic, easy to train, and relatively healthy. This breed requires some grooming but does not need trimming regularly.
Do Westies have separation anxiety?
Did you know that separation anxiety is common not only among Westies but all dog breeds? Most Westies, because they’re so social, suffer from separation anxiety.
Do Westies like being left alone?
Leaving Westies alone at home can cause them to become bored, lonely and depressed. As a result, your Westie may pursue unexpected escapes and become mischievous, withdrawn or even physically ill.
How long is the lifespan of a Westie?
The Westie dog breed, which has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, may be prone to minor health problems like Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, and cataract, and major problems such as Legg-Perthes Disease, Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO), globoid cell leukodystrophy, and skin …
How far should you walk a Westie?
As they are a small breed, up to 1 hour of exercise a day should be sufficient for the Westie. As with many lively Terriers, they’ll never say no to more walks… whatever the weather. Westies are very playful dogs who are full of fun but, at the same time, don’t mind being carried around to take in their surroundings.
Why are Westies stubborn?
Why are Westies Stubborn? West Highland white terriers hail from Scotland and were originally bred to hunt creatures such as foxes and badgers and to kill pests such as rats. They are tough dogs to be sure. In order to be capable of hunting and killing, these terriers were bred to be both tough and determined.
Are Westies easy to train?
The West Highland White Terrier can be trained easily. He’s intelligent and a quick learner, and training will amuse him as long as it remains positive and consistent. In fact, using positive reinforcement laced with consistency is the only way to train a Westie.
What do I need to know about owning a Westie?
Westies are willful little dogs and need training and leadership to prevent negative behaviors, such as biting and guarding. Proper training and leadership will also help prevent the dog from developing small dog syndrome.
Is a Westie a good dog for seniors?
Recognizable by their white mane and dark, almond-shaped eyes, the West Highland white terrier (aka Westie) are friendly, loving companions for active seniors. At 13 to 20 pounds, Westies are still small enough to handle and make good apartment dogs—as long as they get in their long, daily walks.
Does Westies like to swim?
Westies can swim, but they are not very good at it. It is a common misconception that all dogs instinctively know how to swim and while yes, paddling in the water comes naturally to all dogs, not all dogs are suitable for swimming. Just like people need to learn to swim, so do dogs.
How do you calm down a Westie?
Toys and treats for training are great ways to get your pint-sized companions to calm down. Westies don’t deal with boredom too well and will, as a result, be constantly barking for your attention. If you can’t take your dogs outside for a walk just yet, you can always give them their toys to keep them busy.