The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, has long been admired for its bold personality and distinctive look. If you’re considering bringing one home, here’s what you should know.
West Highland White Terrier Characteristics and Appearance
Westies are compact yet sturdy dogs. They typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds and stand about 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. You can expect your Westie to live a long, healthy life—most live 13 to 15 years1.
Their signature look includes a dense, all-white double coat that feels coarse rather than fluffy. Combine that with dark, expressive eyes, a well-proportioned body, and their unique carrot-shaped tail, and it’s easy to see why they’re so recognizable and loved.
The History of the West Highland White Terrier
Westies were originally bred in Scotland to hunt underground rodents like rats and foxes. Despite their small size, they’re known for being impressively strong and persistent. Their charm and working spirit have won over pet parents for more than 300 years1.
West Highland White Terrier Temperament and Personality
The West Highland White Terrier is confident, intelligent, and always ready to entertain. They’re consistently among the most popular small terrier breeds for good reason.
Westies display the classic terrier courage and determination, often showing fearless curiosity about the world around them. They are alert and lively, quick to chase after anything that catches their eye, which reflects their hunting heritage. Even though they don’t require pampering, they do thrive on attention and play.
Caring for a West Highland White Terrier
Grooming
Maintaining that iconic Westie coat takes regular effort. A traditional grooming technique called stripping (removing dead hair by hand) helps maintain the hard texture of their double coat. For most pet parents, a professional grooming visit every 4 to 6 weeks works well1.
Brushing and combing daily can help keep their coat free of tangles and dirt. Be cautious with baths; their harsh coat can be damaged by excessive washing.
Exercise
Westies love activity. A daily walk and plenty of playtime are essential to keeping them happy and healthy. Because they have a strong prey drive and will chase anything that moves, a securely fenced yard or a leash can be a must when outdoors.
Training
Westies were bred to work independently, which means they can be stubborn at times. They do, however, respond well to patient, consistent training that keeps lessons fun and varied. While they’re small, Westies are tough and practical dogs who don’t demand much indulgence.
Common West Highland White Terrier Health Issues
While generally healthy, West Highland White Terriers can be prone to1:
Heart disease
Patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap)
Spot data also shows that gastrointestinal issues, allergies, and lameness are common reasons for Westie insurance claims*. Pet insurance can help ease the cost of treatment for these conditions.
How Much Does a West Highland White Terrier Puppy Cost?
The price of a Westie puppy can vary widely based on where you live2:
Northeast (NY, MA, PA): $1,500–$3,500
South (GA, TX, FL): $1,200–$3,000
Midwest (OH, MO, IL): $1,000–$2,800
West Coast (CA, WA, OR): $1,500–$3,500
Always look for a responsible breeder who prioritizes health and temperament.
Expert Insights From Spot
At Spot Pet Insurance, we’ve seen the unique care needs of West Highland White Terriers*:
The average claim cost for a West Highland White Terrier is $367.
In total, Spot has reimbursed pet parents of West Highland White Terriers over $339,000.
The average claim for patellar luxation, a condition common in this breed, is $293.
FAQs About West Highland White Terriers
Are Westies high maintenance?
Westies need regular grooming and consistent training, but they are otherwise low-maintenance. Their coat requires attention, but their sturdy nature makes them relatively easy to care for.
Are Westies good house dogs?
Yes! Westies can adapt well to home life and enjoy being part of the family. They are alert and protective, yet friendly and entertaining companions.
Is a Westie a good dog for seniors?
Absolutely. Westies are manageable in size, don’t require excessive exercise, and their lively personality makes them delightful companions for seniors.
Key Takeaways: Should You Get a West Highland White Terrier?
West Highland White Terriers are spirited, confident dogs with a bold history and a loyal following. Their independent nature, paired with keen intelligence, can make them fun but sometimes challenging pets. Regular grooming and thoughtful training are key. Spot Pet Insurance has supported Westie pet parents by covering over $339K in claims for common health issues such as allergies and patellar luxation.*
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home or traveling to the U.S., Spot can reimburse the cost of vet bills for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions, including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. Pet parents can also get cash back on the cost of routine care, including wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more, by adding a wellness rider to their plan for an additional cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
*Based on 2019 - 2025 Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. claims data.
American Kennel Club. “West Highland White Terrier Dog Breed Information.” American Kennel Club, www.akc.org/dog-breeds/west-highland-white-terrier/.
Camposano, Ejay. “Cost of a Westie Puppy by US Region [2024].” IHeartDogs.com, 2 Jan. 2024, iheartdogs.com/cost-of-a-westies-puppy-by-us-region/.
