West Highland White Terrier
Great Britain, Small sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–28 cm
- Weight
- 6–10 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Cheerful
- Confident
- Friendly
- Alert
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is a small Scottish terrier bred to hunt vermin in rocky ground. It is compact and sturdy, with a hard white double coat, small upright ears and a dark, bright expression. It has a lively, self-assured air and a cheerful outlook.
Temperament
Cheerful, confident and friendly, with typical terrier independence and spirit. It is alert, loves company and may bark. It can be stubborn but is usually good with families.
Exercise
Needs a daily walk and active play. It is energetic for its size and enjoys games, but adapts to different home sizes.
Grooming
Harsh white coat needs regular brushing and periodic hand-stripping or clipping. Keep the face and feet clean to avoid staining.
Care & wellbeing
Check skin regularly, as the breed can be prone to skin sensitivities, and keep teeth clean. Keep weight lean.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 8 kg adult- Water
- 320 ml–480 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a West Highland White Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small white terrier from Scotland, developed to hunt vermin and small game in rocky ground. It is bold, cheerful and independent, and its white coat makes it easily seen when working.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Skin allergies
- Hip and joint problems
- Liver conditions
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- Hip and kneecap checks
Not every West Highland White Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a West Highland White Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a West Highland White Terrier get?
Adult West Highland White Terriers typically stand about 25–28 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6–10 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do West Highland White Terriers live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a West Highland White Terrier need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a West Highland White Terrier need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are West Highland White Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do West Highland White Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are West Highland White Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a West Highland White Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do West Highland White Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to skin allergies, hip and joint problems, liver conditions. Not every West Highland White Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Small sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954