12/29/2023 0 Comments West highland terrier puppiesAmeric Edwin Flaxman bred a line of white terriers called “Pittenweem Terriers. In the 19th century, a line of white Scottish Terriers called “Roseneath Terriers” were developed by the Duke of Argyll. This meant that several groups of white terriers appeared in Scotland at around the same time. How different breeds or colourations developed was down to personal preference, regional differences, and even a clan or families preference for a particular line of dogs. Many theorise they were simply a white version of a Cairn Terrier or Scottish Terrier as although white coloured dogs were undesirable, the breeds did still carry genes that allowed white puppies to be born. What these white terriers were exactly is unclear, but they could easily have been an ancestor of the modern Westie. Mention of white terriers from Scotland go as far back as the 17th century, when King James VI of Scotland (King James I of England) requested that several white terriers be gifted to France. There are numerous stories of Scottish clan leaders keeping white terriers for centuries, but there is little record about their breeding and origin. However, they have also been used to catch other prey including rats and even otters. They were mostly used to go to ground and chase foxes out into a hunt. Like many terrier breeds, Westies were bred to be skilled vermin catchers. What were West Highland White Terriers bred for? Originally, the whole pack of Scottish terriers were grouped as just that, “Scotch Terriers”. It’s believed that the breed shares its ancestry with a number of other Scottish terriers, including the Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Dandie Dinmont Terrier. The history of the Westie is long and rather unclear. The West Highland White Terrier has potentially the most literal name for any breed of dog because as well as being an all-white terrier, they originate from the west highlands of Scotland. Breed history Where is the West Highland White Terrier from? Most West Highland White Terriers are fairly social and do get on with other dogs and children, but their temperament and tolerance will vary greatly between individual dogs. However, your Westie won’t demand attention themselves as although they are playful and affectionate, they aren’t too worried about being the centre of attention and don’t always appreciate a fuss. Solid white in colour with expressive, dark eyes and a coal-black nose, they are a pooch that attracts attention. West Highland White Terriers are beautiful and bold little dogs, with big personalities to accompany their unmistakable look. These terrier traits do mean your Westie might have a stubborn streak as well as a tendency to bark.Ī West Highland White Terrier’s prey drive means that they will be super interested in toys (especially those that move or squeak) and it does mean they are not a breed suitable for households with small furries roaming around. However, West Highland White Terriers are surprisingly energetic and confident, and are just as much of a courageous ratter as other breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier.īecause they are quite high-energy and can become boisterous, it’s important that these dogs have moderate daily exercise and benefit from regular playtime and training sessions too to keep their active mind ticking over. I suppose I always used to picture Westies as these immaculate little white dogs in tartan jackets, usually accompanying an older couple. Some owners can seem surprised to find that Westies have so many “typical” terrier traits, including a high prey drive and a bold, tenacious nature.
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