Westies make great companions for cats if they are both raised together. However, are westies good with other dogs, and the answer is, most of the time. It’s like human relationships, where some people can’t get on.
It’s important to know that they live for the company of people. However, if you have toddlers or babies around the home, they might be too curious and excitable for a Westie.
This content should take around 4mins to read, but if you’re in a hurry, we have included a table of contents so you can see at a glance what this content contains.
Table of Contents
History:
West Highland White Terriers (aka Westies) have been around since around 1717 when they were first created as a result of cross-breeding the Lowland Terrier with other Scottish Terriers.
They’re an increasingly common breed of dog, particularly in Scotland where they originated, and are often sought after for their friendly nature and distinctive appearance.
They were bred for the purpose of using them to hunt on the ground and in trees. These dogs have a high energy level and are very good at chasing the small game.
It’s no secret that terriers make excellent hunting dogs. They not only chase and find game, but they are also able to dig into the ground after vermin have hidden in their underground burrows. That’s why they are fond of digging, especially in the garden.
The Westies first appeared at the Crufts Dog Show in London in 1907 after they were bred to create the West Highland White Terrier. The dogs appeared in the United States in 1906, and the American Kennel Club recognized them as a breed in 1908.
Characteristics:
They belong to the terrier group and weigh around 13 to 22 pounds. In addition, they stand 9 to 11 inches in height and live on average from 13 to 15 years.
The West Highland white terrier is a popular and sturdy breed of dog. One of the most recognized places for their origin is Scotland, where they were bred to hunt vermin.
Today, Westie owners who understand their history would tell you that they are wonderful family companions. They are very energetic, loyal, and will be protective
Westies have two coats. The outer coat is 2″ tall and straight with a hard texture while the undercoat has a soft texture. These dogs are only found to have the color white.
Health:
Allergies:
Research has shown that Westies are likely to suffer from allergies by the age of three, which is why many are diagnosed with at least one by then. Epidermal dysplasia, which is a rare and degenerative disease caused by allergies in Westies; is the most common allergy.
The infection will advance to a dog’s whole body and lead to hair loss and itchy skin. Without treatment, the infection could last for an undetermined amount of time due to the level of pain your poor dog is experiencing.
White Shaker Dog Syndrome:
This is a disease that’s often found in smaller breeds of dogs. Symptoms include tremors, seizures, and walking difficulties sometimes.
It can affect dogs of any age but tends to happen most often in those between 2-3 years old. Unfortunately at the time of writing, there is no cure for this health issue.
Pulmonary Fibrosis:
Westies are susceptible to pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that will cause scar tissue build-up, and is therefore associated with difficulties in breathing.
It’s a little difficult to treat this kind of condition because not a lot is known about it.
Cancer:
Westies can suffer from both cancer and respiratory disease. However, cancer is a common cause of death among all dog breeds. One in every ten dogs is killed by cancer.
WESTIE Lung Disease:
Idiopathic lung fibrosis is a progressive idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis that is of an unknown cause and impacts the respiratory system.
It is a progressive illness that can take up to 18 months before it finally affects the lungs. The main symptom starts with shortness of breath which worsens as time passes on.
Temperant:
Who would say no to these happy, energetic little dogs? They have a kind face with a black nose and dark brown eyes. People are charmed by it’s happy friendly face when they meet them for the first time.
The West Highland White Terrier has a cheerful and confident personality that knows no bounds. It loves squeaky toys, belly rubs, and food!
He has a happy disposition and an affection for life. Some people may be jealous of him because of his mischievous nature, but he’s not confident to the point where it becomes a negative trait.
Exercise:
Westies were bred to hunt, so they’re naturally energetic. They need plenty of exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy.
This is because they have an “easy action gene,” which is something that comes from their history as hunting dogs on rocky, difficult terrain for long hours. They’re hard-wired to be high-energy and ready for action!
If the dog is bored or not getting enough exercise, he may find other ways of expressing his need for activities such as starting to bark or dig.
Conclusion:
Westies tend to get on well with other dogs and even cats, but they’re instinct to chase smaller animals is hardwired. They are more independent than most breeds and will happily be left to their own devices, which in some cases is not a good thing if they are bored.
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Disclaimer: All material on this website is provided for your information only. It may not be construed as medical advice. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information. Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals or veterinarians on any matter relating to their pet’s health and well-being. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.