The West Highland White Terrier: A charming companion with a special history.
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the Westie, is a British dog breed recognized by the FCI that originated in Scotland. With a height of 23-30 cm, a weight of 6-10 kg and a life expectancy of 12-16 years, the Westie is one of the smaller dog breeds. Its friendly, even-tempered nature and characteristic traits make it a popular family dog.
Character and temperament
The West Highland White Terrier impresses with its self-confident and courageous nature. It is obedient and at the same time cheerful, friendly and focused. When dealing with other dogs, he is not aggressive, but friendly and confident.
These qualities make him a lovable companion for the whole family.
Its even-tempered nature and love of play make the Westie the ideal family dog. He adapts flexibly to the needs of his owners, both when romping in the garden and as a quiet companion at the desk.
Evolution of the West Highland White Terrier dog breed
Originally known as the “Poltalloch Terrier” and “Roseneath Terrier”, the Westie owes its origins to a hunting accident. Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch decided to keep only the light-colored puppies from the litter of Cairn Terriers after he accidentally shot his own dog.
Over the generations, the dark color was removed from the breed and the white Cairn Terrier was created, which later received the name West Highland White Terrier.
Care and training of the Westie
Despite its small size, the Westie has a pronounced stubbornness that requires consistent training. Unlike other small dogs, it is not a lap dog, but an active companion that loves exercise and stimulation.
Grooming his double coat is particularly important. The undercoat keeps him warm, while the rough outer coat protects him from the wet and cold.
To maintain the protective function, the top coat must be plucked regularly, but not shorn. Unfortunately, you often see shorn Westies on the street, which not only detracts from their aesthetics, but also removes the protection of the coat.
Conclusion: A loyal companion with character
The West Highland White Terrier is not only a charming and friendly family dog, but also a dog with a fascinating history.
Its even-tempered nature and adaptability make it an ideal companion for a wide variety of life situations. It is important for future Westie owners to understand that, despite its size and endearing appearance, it has hunting tendencies that require a certain amount of attention.
In conclusion, the West Highland White Terrier is not just a pet, but a loyal friend with a unique charm that holds a place in its owner’s heart.
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