West Highland White Terriers - Westies- A Wonderful Breed Apart
"Westies" or West Highland White Terriers are furry coated dogs, with dots for coal black eyes and button noses.
Why are West Highland White Terrier puppies sought after by many dog lovers? Because these friendly creatures are well-behaved, loyal and affectionate dogs, who may be pocket sized (average a 10-11 inches tall), but are highly intelligent animals.
You won't have a hard time training these dogs, whether solely as house pets, or for show. Their keen intelligence makes it seem like play. However, they learn better and best to training sessions that are done on a schedule.
Brush their white coats two to three times a week, to keep it shiny and clean. If you do intend to enter them for competition, make sure your pet is regularly trimmed, plucked and stripped of his or her coat.
A West Highland white terrier lives an average of 15+ years, and usually has a litter of two to five puppies.
What is the history behind the West Highland White Terrier breed? This breed originated in Scotland developed in the high mountains of West Scotland, to hunt vermin. They claim a common ancestry to the Scotch Terrier.
References to the existence of the West Highland White Terrier can be seen as early as the 18th century, like one painting done by Sir Edwin Landseer. The piece entitled "The Breakfast Party" clearly features the West Highland Terriers.
Another name of the West Highland White Terrier, is as the Poltalloch terrier. The name refers to the home of Col. E.D. Malkolm, the first breeder of these breed. In 1907, the breed then registered as the Roseneath terrier, little Skye and Cairn. Then in 1909, AKC officially changed the breed's name to what it is known as today, West Highland White Terrier breed.
In the past West Highland White Terriers, were considered to belong to the one breed, with Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Cairn and Scottish Terriers. However, although they share common ancestors, selective breeding resulted in the differences between their coat type and colors.
A surprising fact about this breed is, given that the West Highland White Terrier was originally bred to traipse the steep and rugged mountain sides, Westies are well adjusted to today's living conditions. As long as they are walked several times a day, they are good apartment dwellers.
It's not that hard to see then that the West Highland White Terrier definitely qualifies as one of man's best friends.
(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)
I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.
Good health and happiness
Jeff Cuckson
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
Want To Know How To Have The
Healthiest,
Happiest
and Most Well
Behaved Westie You
Have Ever
Dreamed Of! Then Visit NOW!
http://www.madaboutwesties.com
MORE RESOURCES:
 |
|
|
RELATED ARTICLES
Feeding Bettas
Knowing how to feed your betta is fundamental, because doing it wrong can have big consequences for your betta's health. Nothing is more stressful than dealing with a sick fish, right? So, let's do it right, and not have a calamity!Here are some golden rules for feeding your betta:First, select the proper foods.
Dog Health: About Worms and Their Side Effects
Your dog's health is a very important part of overall care, and when you have a dog: Worms are a common problem. Puppies tend to get worms more often than grown dogs do.
Spaying or Nuetering Your Dog-Get The Facts... Be Responsible
Bringing a new puppy or dog home is a huge commitment
and a three-fold responsibility. You now have a commitment
to your dog, yourself, and to your community.
Apistogramma , Dwarf Cichlids in the Aquarium
The real apistogramma's come from southern America, they all have the same characteristics, like a complex breeding behavior, as their large relatives, only their size is different. Besides the apistogramma group there are also some relatively popular dwarf cichlids from Africa, like the Pelvicachromis group.
Westie Pups - Tips for Success in Housetraining
Perhaps the best way to train your westie pups not to relieve themselves in your house is to never let the behavior start in the first place. Learning to anticipate your westie puppies need to 'go' takes time, and extra attention to your pups when they are small, but it should make the learning process less stressful for everyone.
Caring for Your Dogs Teeth
A dog, like a human baby, experiences the world through his mouth, by tasting and chewing on things. But, he also uses his mouth is as his hands.
Herding and the German Shepherd Dog
Once other animals such as cattle, sheep and goats became domesticated, man
became aware of the dogs herding ability. Tactics used by hunting wolves,
witnessed by humans, such as driving and separating one animal from the flock, were further exploited and bred into these dogs.
The Truth About Dog Food
These days, it's hard to know what decisions are the best ones for our beloved pets. So much information, so many conflicting theories and opinions! When it comes to dog food, is wetter better? Or should you give dry a try?In this article, I'm not going to tell you what to feed your dog.
West Highland WhiteTerrier Grooming - Key Considerations
Whether you intend to show your Westie, or keep him for a household pet, the first key to West Highland Terrier grooming is to start while he is a puppy.Take your Westie to his first groomer appointment after he has had all of his shots, at approximately 14 weeks.
My Needs are Simple and Few!
My dear owner,Thank you once again for giving me shelter. (Lick, slurp, lick, slurp) Aside from food, shelter and love, my needs are simple and few! Since I am dependent upon you to provide for me, we should discuss my basic needs.
A Dog Name is Something To Be Chosen Carefully
How important is a dog name? Well let's think about this.How often do you call your dog? Who will hear your dog's name? Will you be writing to anyone about this dog?Now that you think about the times you'll use the name, maybe you should put some thought into what that dog name is.
Lower Your Veterinarian Costs And Increase the Longevity of Your Pets Lives
What does doing natural preventative care mean? I thought vaccinating, prevention medicines, and premium kibble was natural preventative care. Hardly.
How To Care For your Pet Dog
He will be there by your side, as your loving companion - he will offer you protection if ever the need arises. Pet dog owners in turn must know how to look after their pet dog, and be responsible for it.
Dog Obedience Training
Dog obedience training begins with the owner. There are several tips to keep in mind before starting any dog obedience training.
Introducing a Cat to Your Children
Are cats and children a good mix?So, you had a cat in the family when you were a kid. And you are thinking that the addition of a cat into your home would make a terrific family pet, and would give your children the pleasure of loving and caring for an animal.
Top 10 benefits of Natural and Holistic Pet Care
There are a number of reasons for choosing natural pet foods, treats and supplies. First, use of natural products is consistent with a holistic view.
How To Keep Your Cat Healthy - Your Guide to Cat Diseases and Conditions, and How to Cure Them
Even with the best care, cats can become ill. Sometimes this means a simple "kitty cold," at other times the disease might have a more lasting or even fatal result.
Your Purrrfect Companion
Out of all the pet animals, the cat is most expressive about its needs. The feline loves to be pampered and cared for.
Dog Clothes make Great Gifts
When it comes to the art of giving, a gift of clothes is fraught with peril. We all have stories to tell, and if you don't, you will.
"On Trust" & "Paid For": One of the Oldest Dog Tricks that Never Fail to Entertain
"On Trust" & "Paid For" for are one of the oldest dog tricks that afford as much entertainment as anything a dog can do since the early 1900s. It is not the easiest trick to be taught but can be elaborated on and presented in several different forms to impress most people.
|