
The West Highland White Terrier is a hardy, happy little terrier that love the company of people. They are very good watch dogs and make good guard. They carried well with other animals, especially if socialized when young. They have been known to chase cats as a sport. They are generally very good with children. As a reminder, never leave a child unattended with a puppy or dog.
Approximate size of adults
The approximate adult size (two years or more) of the males is 10 to 12 inches at the withers (the highest point of the shoulder) and 15 to 22 pounds. The female ranges pounds 9 11 centimeters at the withers and 13 to 16.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the West Highland White Terrier is no exception. Be alert for skin allergies, progressive neurological disorders and tear duct problems. This list of diseases is an information guide only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check. Then as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check. As she grew more than six years and she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for checkups and vaccines. Remember, and avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The West Highland White Terrier has a double layer. The inner layer is soft and fluffy. Cover hair is white, straight, hard hair. It's a race that should be professionally groomed regularly. You should also brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you monitor close your health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath, other serious illness.
Toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The nails of the hind feet grow slower than the toenails of the front legs.
Life
The West Highland White Terrier can live about 15 years or more with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
West Highland White Terrier comes from Scotland, where they were bred for hunting vermin. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1908.
Some records
- West Highland White Terrier Club of America
- UKC United Kennel Club
- NKC National Kennel Club
- CKC Continental Kennel Club
- APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
- AKC American Kennel Club
- ICF International Federation Cynologique
- NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
- KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain
- ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
- ACR American Canine Registry
Litter size
2 to 5 West Highland White Terrier puppies
Category
Terrier
Terms to describe
Alert, friendly, reliable, happy, balanced, solid self-esteem, self-strength, loving
SPECIAL good points
- It makes a good watchdog.
- Sheds nearly hairless.
SPECIAL BAD POINTS
- Give a poor dog Guard.
- They can dig.
- They can bark profusely.
Other known names
Toseneath Terrier, Poltalloch Terrier
Every dog is an individual if not all of this information may be correct for your dog. This information is intended as a guide in good faith only.
About the Author
Mitch Endick is a short article writer, editor and website developer for the popular pet site http://www.petpages.com, a pet information site with free pet ads, dog classifieds, and puppy for sale info. Petpages.com also offers information on cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs.