Side Note: Why not consider Adoption First? With the popularity of small dogs increasing, so too has the number of breeders... and the population of unwanted dogs is ever increasing. There are several Westies near you in need of rescue. Your future dog could be waiting.

We've included some adoptable dogs on our Westie Pictures page! Go there to see their adorable faces and learn how you could become the future hero of a dog in need.

Have you also prepared yourself for…

Willfulness- Known for having a mind of their own, this breed does not respond well to punishment or harsh training. They will completely withdraw from training tactics they deem 'unfair' and have the propensity to fight harsh training with returned aggression.

Maintenance- The high maintenance coat of a West Highland Terrier requires regular brushing, clipping, trimming, etc. to keep from becoming matted. Regular attention should also be given to nails, teeth, ears and pads. Grooming supplies, like this 7 piece Dog Grooming Kit along with regular profession grooming will keep your dog looking and feeling great!

Chasing Instincts- West Highland White Terriers are energetic dogs who, by instinct, love to chase. A simple bird could send your Westie bolting. Until he's satisfied with his success in the chase, he'll tune-out your frantic calls to stop him. Never walk a Westie without a harness.

Digging- The instinct to dig is built into the genetic make-up of this dog. Never assume your Westie is secure just because your yard is fenced in. Digging comes naturally, so discouraging this behavior is difficult to say the least.

Aggression- This is not the ideal breed for families with small children or other small animals. Westies are not well known for being excessively tolerant. Careful attention should be paid with any dog around small children, but terriers are an even higher risk.

If you often come home to find puddles of pee on your floor and your belongings chewed to bits, it could be Separation Anxiety. Click on the link for helpful tips to control this behavior.

-Health Issues-

Not all West Highland Terriers are unhealthy. They are normally a long-lived and hardy breed. It's important to educate yourself and ask questions of your breeder about their testing practices and health guarantees before you purchase a puppy. Never, EVER purchase a puppy from a pet store. Learn why by reading, small breed dog FAQ.

Skin Problems- Many Westies suffer due to allergies. Atopic Dermatitus known by many other names, is a disorder of the immune system causing allergic reactions to pollen, dust, mold, grass, weeds, etc. Affected dogs can display reverse sneezing, hair loss, coat discoloration, reddening of the skin or crusty eyes. Fleas can also cause severe allergic reactions in Westies.

Epidermal Dysplasia Is sometimes treatable, but in severe or advanced cases, euthanasia is a common last resort. This disease is also known as Armadillo Syndrome because of the way it affects the skin. The disease starts with reddening or itchy skin, especially the paws, legs and ventral areas, but eventually becomes widespread. Thickened, greasy skin occurs in areas where hair loss is noticable. The skin takes on a black pigmentation and a foul odor. Please consult a veterinarian if any of these symptoms are observed in your Westie.

Hip Dysplasia and Joint Problems including arthritis and Patellar Luxation-(A joint condition in which kneecaps dislocate) are common among many small breed dogs. These are very painful for your dog and sometimes expensive to correct.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes syndrome- A disease seen in varying degrees in many small breed dogs. It's degenerative and leads to bone loss and collapse of the hip joint which is obviously painful. Early treatment can help to prevent degenerative arthritis.

The use of Pet Steps has been shown to significantly reduce the wear and tear on joints that can lead to many common joint diseases.

White Shakers Syndrome is a neurological disorder seen in a large number of dogs with white coats. Characterized by the sudden onset of shaking and body tremors including the head and eyeballs. It worsens with handling and when the dog becomes excited or stressed.

Pulmonary Fibrosis- This lung disease is seen mostly in Westies, but Scotties and Cairns are also affected. Very little research has been done on this disease and the prognosis is often very poor once scarring develops. Signs to watch for include, loss of stamina during exercise, dry cough and rapid or labored breathing.

Yeast or Fungal Infections of the ear are also common. Many can be avoided using special solutions offered by your veterinarian and keeping the hair trimmed. Check ears weekly for signs of infection.

Westies can also suffer due to Heart Disease, Kidney Disease and Immune System Disorders among other things. Please choose a breeder wisely and take care of your dogs... They depend on you.

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There's no better way than art to celebrate your love for a West Highland Terrier. Each Print is signed and numbered by the artist. Get one for yourself or give them as gifts!

(click pictures to enlarge)

"West Higland Garden Club"	"Beach Baby"	"Country Westie"
$35.00	$35.00	$35.00

More Westie Art