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West Highland White Terriors – A Breed Apart
“Westies”
or West Highland White Terriors are furry coated dogs, with dots for coal black eyes and button
noses. Why
are West Highland White Terrior puppies sought after by many dog
lovers? Because these friendly creatures are well-behaved, loyal and
affectionate dogs, who may be pocket sized (average a 10-11 inches
tall), but are highly intelligent animals. You
won’t have a hard time training these dogs, whether solely as
house pets, or for show. Their keen intelligence makes it seem like
play. However, they
learn better and best to training sessions that are done on a
schedule. Brush
their white coats two to three times a week, to keep it shiny and
clean. If you do intend to enter them for competition, make sure
your pet is regularly trimmed, plucked and stripped of his or her
coat. A
West Highland white terrior lives an average of 15+ years, and
usually has a litter of two to five puppies.
What
is the history behind the West Highland White Terrior breed? This
breed originated in Scotland developed in the high mountains of West
Scotland, to hunt vermin. They claim a common ancestry to the Scotch
Terrier. References
to the existence of the West Highland White Terrior can be seen as
early as the 18th century, like one painting done by Sir Edwin
Landseer. The piece entitled "The Breakfast Party" clearly
features the West Highland Terriors. Another
name of the West Highland White Terrior, is as the Poltalloch
terrier. The name refers to the home of Col. E.D. Malkolm, the first
breeder of these breed. In 1907, the breed then registered as the
Roseneath terrior, little Skye and Cairn. Then in 1909, AKC
officially changed the breed’s name to what it is known as today,
West Highland White Terrior breed.
In
the past West Highland White Terriors, were considered to belong to
the one breed, with Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Cairn and Scottish
Terriers. However, although they share common ancestors, selective
breeding resulted in the differences between their coat type and
colors. A
surprising fact about this breed is, given that the West Highland
White Terrior was originally bred to traipse the steep and rugged
mountain sides, Westies
are well adjusted to today's living conditions. As long as they are
walked several times a day, they are good apartment dwellers.
It’s
not that hard to see then that the West Highland White Terrior
definitely qualifies as one of man’s best friends.
More information on this beautiful dog called a Westie can be found in the Mad About Westies package. Click Here To Order NOW! I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.
Good health and happiness Jeff Cuckson
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(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)
A Fellow Westie Lover
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