Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Disproportionately short legs and heavy bones for it's height, while well-balanced. Smooth free action with forelegs extending well forward and hind legs thrusting backwards powerfully. Colour: Any hound colour. Usually black, white and tan or lemon and white. Coat: Short, smooth, dense and no feathering. The skin is loose and elastic, with wrinkles between knee and foot. Tail: Carried high, rather long in length and tapering. Ears: Extremely long, narrow and set low. They have a velvety texture and hang in loose folds, curling slightly inwards. Body: Long, smooth ribs carried far back, level back, prominent sternum, shoulders well back and strong and an overall barrel-like shape.

Additional Comments:

There are a variety of problems associated with Basset Hound including; eye problems from drooping lower eyelid, limb problems and ear irritations due to lack of air circulation in ear canal.

Grooming: The coat should be hand-plucked two to three times a year and shouldn't be washed frequently. When coat gets dirty, it is best to let hair dry and then brush dirt out. Westies do need a trim every now and then to keep them looking tidy, along with regular brushing. The advantage with this breed is that they don't have typical dog odour.

Exercise: Westies love playing with balls and toys and frolicking in garden or backyard. They need regular exercise and are keen diggers. They are likely to wander off and need to be kept in a well fenced area.

History: It is believed that West Highland White Terrier evolved from blends of Scottish Terrier, Cairn Terrier and Dandie Dinmont. They were originally bred to hunt vermin. In late 1800s there was a strain of white Scottish Terriers who were owned by Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch (they were known as Poltalloch Terriers), which were very similar to West Highland White Terriers that we know today. The first recognized show for West Highland White Terrier was held in London in 1907.

Additional Comments:

Westies are steadily growing in popularity and it's no wonder, as they are a handy size to pick up, love people, are generally calmer than other terriers and make delightful and entertaining family companions.