History of the West Highland White Terrier Breed
Initially, Scotland had one diverse terrier breed that eventually branched off into the West Highland White Terrier, Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Cairn and Scottish terriers. Developed in the high mountains of West Scotland, Westies were designed to hunt fox, badgers, and vermin. Originally named for the town of Poltalloch, where they had been raised and bred for nearly 100 years prior to their first show. In 1916, Colonel E.D. Malcolm claimed that both his father and grandfather had bred these short-legged, white-haired dogs. It is suggested that Malcolm’s line of dogs dates back to the time of King James I, who requested more “earth-dogges�?out of Argyleshire. Other names that the breed held include Roseneath, white Scottish, little Skye, and Cairn. The name Roseneath was taken from the Duke of Argyll’s place in Dumbartonshire, Scotland and is the name that the Westie was originally registered under in 1908 by the AKC. The name was changed to West Highland White Terrier on May 31, 1909 and is now a popular terrier both in the show ring and in the home. Size and Appearance of the West Highland White Terrier The West Highland white terrier is small and compact with a straight back and muscular hind legs. It has a harsh, straight outer coat that protects it from the elements, and in its early years to protect it from being bitten by the fox that it hunted. Its undercoat is fine and soft to keep it warm in cold climates. The two inch long fur is usually white in color and longer framing the face. Its tail is fairly long and was used to pull it from fox dens when it got stuck. West Highland White Terrier Temperament The Westie is a social dog that likes to be at the center of activity. It is independent, demanding, and stubborn; but also friendly and happy. It can be shy around strangers and doesn’t like rough play. It can be excessively timid if mistreated. This breed barks and also has a tendency to dig. West Highland White Terrier Recommended Maintenance This terrier is a social breed that enjoys the companionship of humans or other dogs. It can live well in an apartment if it is given daily exercise, but it enjoys the ability to go out in the yard for a game or romp with friends. Its wire coat needs combing several times weekly with a monthly bath. Minimal clipping is required for pets, but show dogs require stripping and plucking of the coat. It may be difficult to keep the coat white. Training is easy, and the west highland white terrier is good at problem solving. West Highland White Terrier Health �?Life span: 12�?4 years
�?Major concerns: globoid cell leukodystrophy, Legg-Perthes, CMO
�?Minor concerns: copper toxicosis, cataract, patellar luxation
�?Occasionally seen: deafness
�?Suggested tests: hip, knee |
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