West Highland White Terrier
Confident, chatty and hardy, the Westie is a popular small terrier. Skin allergies are the breed's defining health problem and can be expensive to manage.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–16 years
Height
25–28 cm
Weight
6–10 kg
Exercise
~45 mins/day
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Training
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the West Highland White Terrier
A Scottish working terrier bred to hunt vermin, the Westie is self-assured and independent with a big bark for its size. The white double coat needs stripping or regular clipping. Atopic dermatitis is very common in the breed and often lifelong, so ask carefully about skin in the parents.
Living with a West Highland White Terrier
Suits flats and houses alike.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets— depends on the individual
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Atopic dermatitis and skin allergies
- Craniomandibular osteopathy ('Westie jaw')
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Ask the breeder for
- DNA test for globoid cell leukodystrophy
- Discuss skin history in the line
West Highland White Terriers for sale
No West Highland White Terrier adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All dogs for saleWest Highland White Terrier FAQs
How long do West Highland White Terriers live?
A West Highland White Terrier typically lives 12–16 years.
How much exercise does a West Highland White Terrier need?
Around 45 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are West Highland White Terriers good for first-time owners?
Yes — West Highland White Terriers are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a West Highland White Terrier breeder have done?
DNA test for globoid cell leukodystrophy. Discuss skin history in the line.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.