The West Highland white terrier, or westie, is native to the Scottish Highlands. Around there were jagged rocks concealing badger and fox. The climate made the dog’s coat thick and almost waterproof. Also short, strong legs and feet and powerful jaws were outcomes of the climate and conditions. The dogs ate vermin. The origin of the westie, unlike some breeds, is not easily traced.

Westies are small and snow white. Most are 10-11 inches. They are white with black pigmentation of the nose, lips, eye-rims footpads, and the hue of the skin. Their eyes are usually dark in color. Westies have a double coat. Their outer coat is straight and hard. Their undercoat is hard and dense.

The westie is supposed to have a natural look. The recommended way to groom the westie is plucking with the fingers and fingernails, this is very time consuming though. Daily combing and brushing is recommended. A curved blade is needed to adapt to the dog’s toenails. You can get this item at your local pet shop.

Training of the westie should begin as soon as the puppy enters the home. The training session should be short, but frequent. For example, 10-15 minute periods a day. The puppy will learn better and remember more if trained this way.

Soon after the puppy is born, certainly in the first 24 hours, the puppy should begin nursing from the mother. This should happen at least six weeks. By two months pups should be fed puppy food. Puppies should be fed “growth” diets until 9-12 months. They should eat 2-3 times a day. At 12 months they should be fed 1-2 times a day (preferably twice) when being converted to adult food.