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BREED GUIDE

YOUR WESTIE PUPPY

Westies look like a cuddly toy, but underneath it they're proper terriers, bred in Scotland to hunt small animals among rocks. They're friendly and full of fun, though not really lapdogs, and they come with a voice, a dig and opinions of their own.

A West Highland White Terrier running across sunny grass

WHAT I'D START IN THE FIRST WEEKS

BARKING

REWARD THE QUIET MOMENTS

Westies tend to be alert barkers at the gate and the window. Notice what sets them off, reward a look back at you, and block the view they bark at most while your puppy is young.

SKIN AND COAT

MAKE HANDLING FUN

Skin and coat can need extra care in this breed, so short, happy handling sessions from day one make vet checks and grooming far easier. Touch, treat and stop before they wriggle.

SMALL PETS

INTRODUCE SLOWLY

There's a hunter in there, so cats, rabbits and other small pets need careful, slow introductions. Use gates and a lead at first, and reward calm looking rather than letting them chase.

Cover of The Modern West Highland White Terrier Handbook by Renée Patience

MODERN BREED HANDBOOKS · NO. 09

THE MODERN WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER HANDBOOK

The Westie in one book, from skin, coat and the terrier temper to barking, digging and other dogs, written by Renée. It's an instant download for €9.99.

WANT STEP-BY-STEP HELP?

 

Puppy Club walks you through the first weeks and months with any breed, one step at a time, with a roadmap for each stage so you always know what to work on next. Essentials is €99, one payment, and you keep it for life.

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