West Highland White Terrier Facts

Today the West Highland White Terrier is a loving family pet. However, in the past, this white little dog was a dedicated vermin hunter. That’s not the only interesting thing about this breed, here are the top West Highland White Terrier facts you’ll want to know.

A Name Change

This breed was actually first registered and shown in the ring as the Roseneath Terrier in the early 1900s. This name didn’t last long however and in 1909 it was officially changed to the West Highland White Terrier as we know it today.  It’s also simply called the Westie for short!

A Proud Scot

The Westie was developed in Scotland. In fact, the “West Highland,” in its’ name comes from the fact that it originated in the western highlands of Scotland. Specifically near Poltalloch in Argyllshire.

Several Direct Scottish Relatives

The Westie is one of a group of four Scottish dog breeds that are believed to all be related. Other than the West Highland White Terrier, this includes the Scottish Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and Cairns Terrier.

Much-Needed Vermin Control

As with many other terrier breeds, the Westie was bred to hunt vermin, and its small size allowed it to go underground into their lairs. It was specifically used to hunt mice and rats on farms but could be used to hunt for other animals such as foxes, otters, and fearsome badgers as well.

A Coat For Work

The West Highland White Terrier coat is a characteristic that helped it to work efficiently. It actually has a double coat with an outer and undercoat. The harsh outer coat helped to protect the dog from the thorns and rocky outcroppings found in the Highland landscape.

And at the same time, it also helped protect the body of the dog from being bitten and scratched by prey animals. The undercoat on the other hand was ideal for keeping the Westie warm and dry in the wet Scottish weather.

White For Visibility

It is believed that the white color of the breed was developed to help hunters distinguish the Westie from its prey when in the field. Other coat colors could mean they were mistaken for game animals in the excitement and chaos of the hunt, and accidentally killed.

Good Luck Charm

Because of its friendly temperament, convenient size, and looks the Westie is one of the most popular terriers around the world. However, in Japan, it’s not only considered a fabulous companion but its white coat is believed to bring the owner good luck as well.

Westie Jaw

One of the West Highland White Terrier health issues that potential owners need to be aware of is craniomandibular osteopathy. It’s also sometimes called “Westie jaw” or “lion jaw.” This is an inflammation of the lower jaw and s a result makes both chewing and swallowing difficult. This condition typically is only seen in puppies. Luckily it almost always disappears before the dog is a year old or sooner.

Elfinbrook Simon Lifts His Leg

One of the biggest boosts for the breed’s popularity in the U.S. came in 1962 when Elfinbrook Simon, a Westie show dog from England, won Best-in-Show at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

Not only did he win, but he stole the show when he decided to lift his leg on the Best-in-Show sign after being instructed to enter the winner’s circle. This was seen on TV by millions of viewers and created a huge surge in the breed’s popularity.

A Whiskey Promoter

The West Highland White Terrier along with the Scottish Terrier were both used to help advertise the brand Black and White Scotch Whisky for the James Buchanan Distilling Company. With the Westie symbolizing the white and the Scottie the black, they were featured in advertisements around the world. This not only sold a lot of whiskey but also drew attention to both breeds at the same time.

Vocal Pet

This is a small dog breed that’s known to be quite vocal. However, the Westie’s barking actually comes from its hunting past. Its job was not only to kill vermin but also to signal the hunters to areas where there was prey underground that needed to be dug out. The Westie way of signaling was by barking until the hunter arrived on the scene.

One of the more interesting West Highland White Terrier facts is that the breed’s loud bark (despite its small size) is a result of louder dogs being more highly-prized by hunters, and breeding for this trait.

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