Today’s animal of the day is a dog you may have seen or even owned: a West Highland Terrier. 

Often called Westie, these medium-sized terriers are known for having no shortage of self-esteem. 

Here are some fun facts about this spunky dog breed. 

Appearance 

  • Westies typically stand at about 10 inches high and weigh around 15-20 pounds.
  • They have a coarse white coat with a softer undercoat.
  • With their bright white fur, dark almond-shaped eyes and rounded face tuffs, the Westie has a very distinct and fetching appearance.
  • They need regular brushing and clipping to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Personality

  • The West Highland Terrier is intelligent, spunky, sturdy and bold.
  • A Westie will likely be bossy with other Westies, but they usually get along quite well with other dogs and even cats.
  • They can be resolute diggers and determined barkers.
  • They make good pets and need plenty of playtime and exercise to keep them happy. West Highland White Terriers are fairly easy to train, and it must be done early to instill that they are not the rulers of the world.

Breed Facts

  • They were originally bred in Scotland as rodent hunters and have since become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
  • They are bred as tough predators of vermin, making them dominant by nature leading to stubbornness. Time and constant reinforcement can help tame this ornery streak.
  • Westies are known for being prize-winners and great show dogs. They are one of the most popular breeds on earth.