West Highland Terrier

A quick history lesson!

West Highland terrier are descended from the Cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. They were bred around the 1800’s and were mainly used for hunting. They had good physic for a hunting dog as they were athletic, small enough to carry upon a horse and with their coat being white; they were easily visible in the hunting field which was excellent as they would not be mistaken for a fox. The breed was officially registered as the West Highland Terrier in 1907 in England at a Cruft’s show and the name was chosen because of their personality and where the breed came from.



The West Highland Terrier has a short white coat that is harsh and some may say, bristle like. They have a double laired coat, which is suitable for outdoors as they were and are used for hunting. They shed very little all through the year.


The West Highland is from the terrier group which in turn means they were breed for hunting and sniffing out their prey. This is little dog that walks tall and proud and although small in size will stand up to whatever breed faces him. The does not mean that they will start fights but they won’t necessarily run away from one either. West Highland terriers are happy go lucky dogs that are quite outgoing and love being alongside their human friends. Some may say that this little dog will often consider itself to be bigger than it is as it will often make a good guard dog as he will often warn off strangers but will be friendly when the owner shows him that there is no danger.


The West Highland terrier is very suitable for someone living alone as they are small enough to carry around and keep close by for company but they also make good guard dogs without having large dog to contend with. West Highland terriers require gentle walking to avoid becoming unfit and having weight or health issue, but long walks wouldn’t be essential. Although most West Highland terriers would have short coats, because they are white, they would require regular washing to keep the coat clean and shinny.

The West Highland terrier is a small breed and would usually be about 8 kgs when fully grown



The West Highland terrier puppy should appear clean and bright eyed. The ears should already be erect on the head and the coat should be soft, clean and furry. The West Highland terrier should appear friendly and curious as this is their character traits.

Good solid bodies, not too fat and not thin as this could indicate worms or incorrect feeding or both. They should look overall clean and be in good condition. Where they have been kept should also be clean. A bright clean and happy puppy with a wagging tail is best but don’t necessarily dismiss the pup that shy away as he may just be an observer.

On the side of caution – acquire your puppy from someone who is close by with a good reputation. It is always a good idea to view both parents and their registered papers. Inquire about their vaccinations and worming tablets but also get your own vet to look at the puppy once you have brought it home.



A strong stance with a short to medium length coat all round the body. A round head with ears that stands erect on the head and a small snout with a black nose. The eyes should appear bright and dark in colour and set deep into the head. The West Highland terrier is a small breed and would usually be about 8 kegs when fully grown. A West Highland Terrier will normally live for 15 years or more.

• Skin conditions
• Perthes disease (hips)
• Hernias (Stomach)
• Liver disease (liver)
• Calcification of the Jaw bone (mouth)