West Highland White Terrier
7-10 kg
Approximately 28 cm at the shoulder
12-16 years
Scotland
About the West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the 'Westie,' is a small, sturdy, and incredibly hardy terrier originating from the Scottish Highlands. Developed primarily by the Malcolm family of Poltalloch, the breed was selected for its distinctive white coat to ensure hunters could easily distinguish the dog from the foxes they were pursuing. Despite their diminutive size, Westies are remarkably tough, possessing a deep chest and powerful hindquarters that allow them to navigate rocky terrain and squeeze into tight burrows. In a domestic setting, the Westie is a devoted and spirited companion. They are famously 'big dogs in small bodies,' exhibiting a self-confident and inquisitive nature that makes them excellent watchdogs. While they are affectionate with their families, they retain a typical terrier independence and a high prey drive. Their iconic white silhouette, dark piercing eyes, and 'carrot' tail—designed to be strong enough for a hunter to pull them out of a hole—make them one of the most recognizable and beloved breeds in the terrier group.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Westie is a paragon of compact power and 'varminty' expression. The breed standard calls for a perfectly white, harsh-textured double coat that frames a head with a distinct stop and dark, almond-shaped eyes full of fire. Their movement should be free and powerful, showing great reach and drive for a small dog.
Bred For
Originally bred for hunting and dispatching vermin, including foxes, badgers, and otters in the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Temperament
Alert, gay, courageous, self-reliant but friendly; possesses a distinctively hardy and active personality with a touch of terrier independence.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
(skin allergies), Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO or 'Lion Jaw'), , , Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Dry Eye), and Copper Toxicosis.
Exercise Needs
Moderate to High.
Grooming Needs
High. Their harsh double coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, including clipping or traditional hand-stripping to maintain coat texture.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable; they thrive in both apartment settings and houses with yards. However, they are active indoors and require consistent daily outdoor stimulation regardless of living space.
Good with Kids
Generally excellent with older children who understand how to handle dogs respectfully; they may be less tolerant of the rough handling typical of toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Can live harmoniously with other dogs if socialized early. Due to their history as hunters, they often view small pets like hamsters or rabbits as prey and should be supervised around cats.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but possesses a stubborn, independent streak. They respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement and varied training sessions that keep them mentally engaged.
Coat & Colours
Double-coated: a harsh, straight outer coat approximately 5cm long, with a short, soft, and close undercoat.. White
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
West Highland White Terriers are more likely to experience atopic dermatitis and food sensitivities. This means they can be prone to itchy skin, ear infections, and paw licking, often triggered by environmental allergens or standard commercial kibble. A fresh, species-appropriate diet from Majestik can be a wonderful way to support their immune system and skin barrier. They are also predisposed to Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO), a puppyhood bone condition, so choosing a reputable breeder who screens for genetic issues is vital. Practically, owners should be prepared for their 'terrier talk'—they are alert barkers who will notify you of every passerby, though this can be managed with training. Their love for digging is a remnant of their hunting heritage; providing a designated digging spot can save your garden while keeping them happy. While they are independent, they are also prone to dental disease due to their small mouths, so regular teeth cleaning and raw meaty bones are essential lifestyle inclusions.
Feeding Guide for Your West Highland White Terrier
Healthy Weight
7-10 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
140-300 grams
For a typical adult Westie weighing 8.5kg, a daily ration of approximately 170g to 255g of fresh, high-quality raw food is recommended, based on the 2-3% of body weight guideline. Puppies, seniors, or highly active dogs may require adjustments to these portions.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A diet focused on high-quality proteins and rich in Omega-3 fatty acids is essential to support their sensitive skin. Biologically appropriate fresh or raw diets that avoid common fillers like wheat, corn, or soy are often most beneficial.
A Westie's diet should prioritize skin health. Majestik's Kangaroo or Fish-based proteins are ideal as they are lean and rich in essential fatty acids. Adding pureed green vegetables and a splash of salmon oil can help manage their predisposition to atopy.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
West Highland White Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your West Highland White Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.