WEST HIGHLAND TERRIER INTERESTING FACTS
The West Highland Terrier, or Westie, sports an attitude as rugged as his homeland, but lovers of this wee white terrier grown to love him for more than just his bravado.
Let’s get to know this strong and intelligent terrier. Here are some interesting facts:
Scottish White terriers were recorded as early as during the reign of James VI of Scotland, who reigned between 1567 and 1625. The term ‘‘West Highland Terrier’’ only first appears in the book ‘‘Otters and Otter Hunting’’ by L.C.R. Cameron, published in 1908.
At various times during the breed’s existence, it has been considered a white offshoot of both the Scottish Terrier and the Cairn Terrier breeds.
The breed comes from tragic beginnings. The Westies snow-white coat helped him stay visible during hunts. In the 1800s, Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch, Scotland, was hunting with a Cairn terriers pack. Unfortunately, he accidentally shot his favourite dog, mistaking it for prey. Malcolm then vowed to only hunt with white dogs, which could easily be seen even when obscured by foliage.
Like many terriers, sometimes called Earth-dog breeds, the Westie is born to burrow. When burrowing underground to flush out the game, the Westie needs to be able to squeeze through some pretty tight spots. His bullet-shaped body helps him wiggle through underground caverns to chase after his prey.
Luckily, if he gets stuck in a hole he can’t get himself out of, his tail is a convenient retriever tool. Like the dachshund and other burrowing breeds, the Westie has been bred to have an extra sturdy tail used to yank him out of holes.
He packs a big bark for a small dog, as he was originally bred for hunters to be able to hear him barking underground.
The Westie is intelligent, independent, and determined. These traits sometimes lead to stubbornness, which can cause some training difficulties, especially if training becomes boring or is too harsh. With proper praise and treats, your Westie can be taught various commands, especially if you start young.
West Highland Terrier sheds little and is easy to groom. Regular brushing and stripping twice a year keep your Westie’s wiry coat looking great. His outer coat naturally sheds away dirt and debris he might accumulate in your garden.
The Westie has been described as virtually tireless, alert, and courageous. As they are a small breed, up to 2 hours of exercise a day should be sufficient for the Westie. As with many lively Terriers, they’ll never say no to more walks...whatever the weather.
Westies are very playful dogs who are full of fun but, at the same time, don’t mind being carried around to take in their surroundings.