West Highland White Terrier Breed Profile

Originating in Poltalloch, Scotland, the West Highland White Terrier is directly related to the Cairn Terrier. In fact, initially, the white puppies in a Cairn litter would be disposed of because they were believed to be weaker than their colored brothers and sisters. Eventually, someone realized that the little white dog, emerging from underground, was much more visible than the other Cairns, making hunting easier, with fewer mistakes, that is, the hounds would not mistake the little dog for the fox. In 1916, one of the founders of the Westie breed, Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch, said that his family had long kept the dogs, and it is possible that the Malcolm Westies could trace their heritage to the time of King James I. The first show actually held for Westies was at Crufts in London in 1907; at this time, Dr. Flaxman presented his strain of the dogs, which was similar to the Malcolm strain. The breed then began to become known and recognized. The modern Westie is a bit more elegant and extreme than the Cairn, especially in its "hairdo." The Westie makes an excellent, adorable, mischievous companion.

West Highland White Terrier Distinguishing Characteristics

The white variety of the Cairn Terrier with, overall, the same characteristics as the Cairn. This dog is a little bit more extreme in build and grooming than the Cairn.