Also referred to as the Westie, the West Highland White Terrier comes only in a bright white coat. They have black noses and triangular ears that stand erect. Their dark brown eyes are wide-set, almond-shaped, and black-rimmed.
Where Do West Highland White Terriers Originate From?
According to records, the breed originated from Argyll, Scotland. For many years, the Malcolm family bred Westies in Poltalloch. It was said that the family’s dogs were traceable back to King James I of England.
It is believed that this particular terrier roots in the same ancestral line as other terriers that originated from Scotland. These are the Dandie Dinmont, Scottish Terrier, and Cairn Terrier.
Westies debuted at a dog show in London in 1907. The breed was first registered with the American Kennel Club the year after. They were known to be the Roseneath Terrier. In 1909, their current name was formally adopted.
What Breeds Make a West Highland Terrier?
Part of the West Highland White Terrier’s lineage is that of the Dandie Dinmont, Skye, and Cairn Terriers. All these dogs are considered to be branches of the same breed.
Are There Different Types of West Highland Terriers?
Although it shares history with the other terriers from Scotland, the West Highland Terrier is one of its kind.
What Group Does the West Highland Terrier Belong to?
The Westie belongs to the terrier group. Energetic and feisty, the terriers make great pets. They come in small to large sizes. Like the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, and the Scottish Terriers, the West Highland Terrier is among the small breeds of the terrier family.
What Colors Are West Highland Terriers?
The West Highland White Terrier breed only comes with a pure white double coat.
Are There Black West Highland Terriers?
If you see a black terrier, it is probably the Scottish Terrier. This breed appears to be black, but can also be grey, brindle, or wheaten. West Highland Terriers only have white coats.
Are All West Highland Terriers White?
West Highland White Terriers are always white, hence the breed name. If you spot a black or brown terrier, it is probably a Scottie dog or a Cairn Terrier.
Why Are West Highland Terriers White?
Folklore about the Westie’s white color tells about a tragic 19th-century accident.
According to the tale, Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch was hunting foxes. Accidentally, he shot and killed one of his wheaten-coated Cairns. To prevent similar accidents, he decided to breed only white dogs that couldn’t be mistaken for a fox.
Is West Highland Terrier a Westie?
The West Highland White Terrier is also referred to as the Westie. Originating from Scotland, it is a terrier with a medium build and distinctive white double coat. It is an energetic and playful dog that makes a great canine companion.
