West Highland White Terrier

Well suited for a indoor dog and a watch dog, very good ratter and is an all weather dog.

No Picture Available

Characteristics:   A foxy - faced head and a compact body, the West Highland White Terrier is pure white.  The coat, the breed's hallmark, is rarely seen to perfection; a double coat, properly blending the two-inch outer coat of straight hard hair with the plenteous, soft undercoat.  Silkiness and curliness are insufferable.  A flattish side appearance is supported by a level back and deep, well-arched ribs.  The desired appearance possesses both a high-esteemed and "varminty" quality, unknown in any other terrier.

History:  The prejudice of Cairn Terrier hunters against white puppies paves the way for the Westie.  The Malcolms of Poltalloch began collecting and breeding these white outcastes.  These once-called Poltalloch terriers ("white cairns") were then crossed with Sealyhams in order to generate a longer bodied, white terrier.  This cross was ill-conceived, as the longer body was not suited for game terrier work.  Selective breeding helped to restore the breed which today looks more like a Cairn in body type than the Sealyham.  Self-reliant and adaptable to a variety of lifestyles, this energetic and pleasing terrier makes an all-around companion dog.  Pugnacity and timidity are discouraged.  The show Westie requires a considerable deal of grooming.  To keep the pet Westie looking his best, regular grooming is advised.  In America, the Westie is popular on both coasts.

Kennel Clubs:  FIC, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ACA