Originating in Scotland, West Highland White Terriers (Westies) were used as small game hunters. Their distinctive white coats are a result of selective breeding for this coat color. Male Westies stand 11 inches at the shoulder, and females stand ten inches at the shoulder. Their straight, hard coats are white. Westies are spunky, energetic, and curious dogs. They are also bold little dogs with a tendency to be willful. Despite their small size, Westies are very brave and make good watchdogs. Many Westies do not get along well with other small animals.

To learn how to rescue a Westie in need of a home or for breeder referrals from the West Highland White Terrier Club of America click here.
 

Potential Health Problems*

• Addison’s Disease
• Atopy
• Cataracts
• Congenital Deafness
• Copper Storage Disease (liver disorder)
• Corneal Ulcers
• Craniomandibular Osteopathy
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Ectopic Ureters
• Generalized Idiopathic Tremor Syndrome (White Shaker Dog Syndrome)
• Hemivertebrae
• Hernias
• Histiocytoma
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
• Krabbe Disease (nervous system disorder)
• Legg Calve Perthes Disease
• Luxating Patella
• Malassezia Dermatitis
• Persistent Pupillary Membranes
• Portosystemic Shunt
• Pulmonic Stenosis
• Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (enzyme deficiency disorder)
• Seborrhea
• Tetralogy of Fallot (heart condition)
• Ventricular Septal Defect

*Just because a condition is associated with a specific breed does not mean that all dogs of this breed will be affected. Likewise, a dog may be impacted by diseases and conditions not listed under his or her breed.