Because of their diminutive size and playful attitude, West Highland Terriers (or Westies) have puppy-like qualities. But you do have to remember that they are active and intelligent animals, with a strong will of their own. With firm leadership from the start they will acknowledge you as their pack leader, and will listen to you and try to please you.

Early days and children

As puppies, they are incredibly tiny. It is not advisable for children to handle them as it is too easy for their delicate bodies to be hurt. There is a tendency for puppies to nip, especially when they are hurt, which with their sharp teeth would be very painful. However a little firmness and training (possibly with things they are allowed to chew), this will no longer be a problem for your fingers, or anything else they may want to nibble on. Once the puppy has grown, they do make excellent playmates for children.

Caring for your WHT puppy

Usually when you buy a Westie puppy they will be eight weeks old, and will require feeding four times a day. It can cause issues if you suddenly change their existing diet, so check with the breeder for a diet sheet. Then you can either keep to the same routine, or gradually change their diet to a new food.

Before they are house trained, the puppies will require regular trips outside to avoid accidents. For this reason, and because they naturally crave company, it is best not to leave the animal alone for long periods of time.

Potential Issues in the first year

Your Westie will require regular grooming, which is something they enjoy and look forward to. As they have a hard, dry top coat (which sheds very little) you must get through to the undercoat to ensure there is no matting or skin problems. A brush and a wide toothed comb will work well.

Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO) is an over production of calcium in the jaw, usually around the time they start to change their teeth. Anti-inflammatory medication will take care of this, should it arise, and Westies grow out of this problem after a year.

Another problem that may become apparent in the first year is Leg Perthes. This condition is correctable with surgery, and is where the head of the femur does not fit correctly in the socket. Once treated, the animal will live a normal life.