Active. The West Highland White Terrier has a fine sense of hearing. Lovable family pet. Needs a lot of attention; does not do well alone, becoming quite destructive. Westies equal barkers plus diggers. Should stay on a leash when not in a fenced area.

Hunting foxes, otters, and badgers; vermin extermination.

Tenacious, affectionate, proud, happy, spirited, friendly, independent.

25.5 to 28 cm; 6.5 to 9.5 kg. Colour is white, of course; however, at one time they came in a variety of colours.

Dense, hard, straight outercoat; soft undercoat. Moderate maintenance required; brushing twice a week with a stiff bristle brush to prevent mats. An all-white coat is always more difficult to keep presentable. Professional grooming is recommended; stripping for show, clipping for pets. Westies shed very lightly when groomed correctly.

14 to 15 years.

Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO), globoid cell leukodystrophy, anemia, skin problems (allergies), cataracts, diabetes, orthopaedic problems (patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, hip dysplasia), dilated cardiomyopathy.

Moderate to high; Needs daily long walk although play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, Westies can become destructive if not exercised thoroughly.

Can adapt well to apartments if given sufficient exercise. Very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Low to average; these are very independent dogs.

Obedience, agility, earthdog trials.