The West Highland White Terrier or Westie, has it's origin, as the name suggests, in the western Scottish Highlands. They were originally bred for controlling the population of rats, fox, otter and other vermin

The West highland White Terrier (also known as the Westie) is a elegant looking dog with beautiful eyes (this is my favourite feature).

Class: Terrier

Colour: White (Did I say white? - Definitely not today)

Height: Dogs - 10-12 inches

Bitches - 9-11 inches

Weight: Dogs - 15-22 lbs

Bitches - 13-16 lbs

Life Span: 15 + years

Litter Size: 2-5

From an owners perspective, I find the Westie, active, assertive, fun loving and does he like to play. Our westie called Pepper has a continual fight with the hoover.

He also likes to chase our cat (who is 9+ years). She can't be bothered with him and has put him in his place a few times. However he never seems to learn.

His other love is going for a walk. He goes crazy when he sees the dog lead being taken out of the drawer.

Nowadays, they are more of a companion or family dog, even though they have strong terrier instincts. Above all they are a very smart, loyal and lovable dog.

From the 100 Top Westie sites contained in the "Mad About Westies" package, we know that the love for your dogs extends all countries and cultures. From New Zealand (NZ) to Russia to USA to Europe to South America.

(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.)