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 history behind West Highland White Terrier breed? This breed originated in Scotland developed in high mountains of West Scotland, to hunt vermin. They claim a common ancestry to Scotch Terrier.

References to existence of West Highland White Terrier can be seen as early as 18th century, like one painting done by Sir Edwin Landseer. The piece entitled "The Breakfast Party" clearly features West Highland Terriers.

Westie terriers are exuberant little dogs, but owners do report that they are usually content to lie at their side throughout day. However, once they are let outside, westies will want to run and jump and play. Like any dog, they require outside playtime every day. Westies are not dogs that perform well when left alone all day.

Some people describe them as obstinate and naughty. This is a trait of many terrier breeds, but westies dogs usually have it to a lesser degree. They are very independent, but they are also intelligent and easy to train if they handled in a firm, consistent way. Westie terriers are considered easy to housetrain, because of their natural desire to remain clean.

Most are not described as cuddlers. They are not lap dogs. However, they are extremely companionable, and want to be with you no matter what you do. You can take westie dogs just about anywhere that dogs are allowed to go.

They will bark to announce that a stranger is approaching. They make good guard dogs. They can be trained not to bark, or to bark once and then stop. Although they announce strangers, they are also extremely friendly with everybody.

Your westie terriers will get along with your children if they respect dogs' boundaries. One that has been poked and pulled to point of irritation will nip or become aggressive. Some authorities on westies do not recommend dogs for homes with children under six years of age.