STerrier
Scottish Terrier
SmallEnergy: Moderate · 0 WagLine dogs
A dignified, wiry 'Scottie' — independent, loyal, and full of character.
View Breed GuideWTerrier
Breed Guide
Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
“Small, white, and full of himself.”
A bright white, spunky little terrier — confident, cheerful, and easy to love.
Size
Small
Weight
15–22 lb
Lifespan
13–15 years
Energy
Moderate
Grooming
High
At a Glance
Quick Stats
Group
Terrier
Size
Small
Height (M/F)
10–11 in / 10–11 in
Weight (M/F)
15–22 lb / 13–16 lb
Lifespan
13–15 years
Exercise Needs
Moderate
EnergyModerate
TrainabilityIntermediate
GroomingHigh
SheddingLow
ExperienceBeginner
The Breed
Overview
Developed in Scotland for hunting rats and foxes, the West Highland White Terrier is a bright white, spunky earthdog. Its color (bred to be visible in the field) and cheerful confidence define the breed.
Origin
Scotland
Original Purpose
Hunting rats and foxes
Temperament
Spirited, confident, affectionate, stubborn
Best Known For
A bright white, spunky little terrier — confident, cheerful, and easy to love.
Character
Temperament
Westies are typically spirited, confident, and affectionate. They are spunky little terriers with big personalities — friendly but never pushovers. They bond with family and love to explore and dig.
Affection & Family
Affectionate and devoted to the family.
Independence
Spirited, confident, affectionate, stubborn
Social Behavior
Variable — can be scrappy; socialize early.
Protective Instincts
Spirited, confident, affectionate, stubborn
With Children
Typically okay with gentle children; not tolerant of rough handling.
With Other Dogs
Variable — can be scrappy; socialize early.
Movement
Energy & Exercise
Needs daily exercise — walks and play. They are moderately active and enjoy exploring.
Recommended Activities
ObedienceFetchLong walksEarthdogAgilityTrail walksHiking
Partnership
Training
Smart but stubborn; need patient, positive, consistent handling. They have a typical terrier independence.
Trainability
Intermediate
Experience Level
Beginner
Coat Care
Grooming
A harsh white coat that needs regular brushing and periodic hand-stripping or clipping. They shed little.
Grooming Needs
High
Shedding
Low
Wellness
Health
Watch for skin allergies, patellar luxation, and eye conditions. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.
Heritage
History
Bred to hunt vermin, the Westie's spunk and confidence still suit earthdog fun and a cheerful family life.
Origin
Scotland
Original Purpose
Hunting rats and foxes
Lifestyle Fit
Best For
FAMILIES
FIRST-TIME OWNERS
CITY LIVING
HIGH GROOMING
Apartment Suitability
Good with daily exercise.
Yard Requirements
A small fenced yard is nice.
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Breed Community
West Highland White Terrier Community
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On WagLine
Popular Activities
Most popular with West Highland White Terriers on WagLine.
01Obedience
02Fetch
03Long walks
04Earthdog
05Agility
06Trail walks
07Hiking
Based on structured breed recommendations for now — these will reflect real WagLine activity as the community grows.
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View Breed GuideATerrier
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View Breed GuideThe Directory
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