How old does a West Highland white terrier get?

Between 3 and 12 months old, an affected dog becomes inflamed and itchy on his head, feet, and belly. As the disease spreads, the puppy scratches constantly and loses his hair. His skin becomes dark and greasy and thickened like an armadillo. Then come recurrent yeast infections.

What to do if your Westie has skin allergies?

So when you see inflamed skin and intense itching in a Westie puppy, more common conditions like allergies and mange do need to be ruled out….but these symptoms are ominous warning signs of epidermal dysplasia. Allopathic medicine tries to manage this incurable disease with steroids, antihistamines, and antifungal shampoos.

What kind of skin disease does a Westie have?

Other skin diseases in Westies include seborrhea, and a very serious disease: epidermal dysplasia. Let’s talk about epidermal dysplasia in West Highland White Terriers. Epidermal dysplasia is also called Westie armadillo syndrome – for good reason, as you’ll see. This inherited skin disease is quite dreadful.

What to do if your West Highland Terrier has health problems?

Start your West Highland White Terrier off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you’re going to spay or neuter, don’t do it too early. Jump down to this list of Westie Health Problems Or check out my advice for raising a healthy West Highland White Terrier puppy or adult dog:

When does a westie dog become a senior?

1. Age First and foremost, the easiest way to tell that your Westie is entering their senior years is to simply consider their age. Most dogs are classified as seniors as soon as they turn 7 to 10 years old.

What should I do if my Westie is getting old?

Moderate exercise is always recommended for dogs, especially as they become older, as it gives them a stronger foundation to avoid certain ailments as they get older such as osteoarthritis. However, there should also be ingredients in their daily food that will help to build stronger bones and joints to avoid most signs of aging.

When was the Westie Terrier introduced to the USA?

Since then, the Westie has been known by many names, including the Poltalloch Terrier and the Roseneath Terrier. However, it was officially recognised as the West Highland White Terrier by the Kennel Club of England in 1906. The breed was introduced to the USA in 1905 and first shown the following year.

What’s the average life span of a Westie?

More often than not, our Westies will have a life expectancy of up to 12 to 13 years. What Are the Signs of an Aging Westie? Although Westies are notoriously sassy and stubborn, as they become older, their bold personalities will start to change.

Is the westie dog going to get older?

Westies, similar to every living being on this planet, is subject to getting older as time goes on. Although, they have the tendency to own one of the longest life expectancies out of most other breeds, which gives you your companion for plenty of years. However, without proper health management and senior care, the aging process can be expedited.

How old do West Highland Terriers usually live?

They originated in Scotland and were bred to hunt, so they are naturally alert and slightly nosy. They’re part of the Terrier breed and typically live between 12 and 16 years. Male and female Westies come in different shapes and sizes.

How big does a male Westie Terrier get?

Male and female Westies come in different shapes and sizes. The male Westie averages 15 to 20 pounds and stands 10 to 12 inches tall. A female Westie on the other hand averages 13 to 16 pounds and stands 9 to 11 inches tall. Before deciding to bring a Westie into your home, there’s several things that you need to know about this Terrier breed.

What is epidermal dysplasia in West Highland white terriers?

Let’s talk about epidermal dysplasia in West Highland White Terriers. Epidermal dysplasia is also called Westie armadillo syndrome – for good reason, as you’ll see. This inherited skin disease is quite dreadful. Between 3 and 12 months old, an affected dog becomes inflamed and itchy on his head, feet, and belly.

Why are West Highland Terriers called White Shaker dogs?

Due to the fact that the problem was primarily witnessed in dogs with white coats, it was given the name white shaker dog syndrome. Canines with WSS experience a fine tremor in their entire body that usually persists throughout the day and worsens with handling or if the westie becomes excited or stressed.

How much to feed a West Highland white terrier?

Determining Weight. The amount of dry dog food you feed your West Highland White Terrier is based on the dog’s weight and the calorie content of the food. Typically, an adult Westie weighs between 16 and 20 pounds. Feed the correct amount of food to your dog according to the manufacturer’s directions listed on the food packaging by weight.

When to spay or neuter a West Highland white terrier?

Last Updated: October, 2019 Start your West Highland White Terrier off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you’re going to spay or neuter, don’t do it too early. Jump down to this list of Westie Health Problems

Is the West Highland white a good dog?

Westies still have plenty of playfulness though, which means that they could potentially be great company for older children who can consciously respect a dog’s wishes. With any dog, you must take into consideration their tendencies, their history and their reactions.

What kind of dog is a West Highland Terrier?

The West Highland White Terrier, commonly called a Westie, is a small, spirited, white dog originally bred in Scotland. Being purebreds, Westies face their share of health concerns that require special care and vigilance.

Are there any health problems for West Highland Terriers?

In 2007, the West Highland White Terrier Club conducted a health survey that found that 1 in 2 Westies had at least one of the following common health problems. Many of them are, sadly, incurable conditions that must be managed throughout your dog’s life.

How often should I Walk my West Highland Terrier?

However, the West highland terrier isn’t at the top of the list of breeds that need the longest walks, and generally two walks of half an hour or so per day that are lively and varied is sufficient for most dogs of the breed.

How often should I exercise my West Highland Terrier?

Westies aren’t lazy dogs, but nor are they an extremely high-energy breed. One to two daily walks or play sessions a day is usually adequate A total of an hour of exercise is adequate for most Westies. Most Westies will be calm and relaxed indoors if you exercise them twice a day.

Why does my West Highland white terrier have yeast?

Yeast is a fungus that normally lives in low numbers on the skin of most healthy dogs without doing any harm. But when the poor puppy’s skin becomes broken by scratching, yeast seize the opportunity to attack.

When did the West Highland Terrier become a breed?

However, it was first recognized specifically as the West Highland Terrier in England at the start of the 20th century. In 1908, a couple years after England recognized the breed, America followed suit and the AKC induced the canine as its own breed.

What kind of problems does a West Highland white terrier have?

Other health issues in West Highland White Terriers include lymphoma, blood-clotting disease, and multiple heart diseases. Some health problems are inherited. For example, if your dog inherits from his parents the genes for an eye disease called PRA, he will go blind and there’s nothing anyone can do about it.

What kind of dog is a West Highland white?

The West Highland White Terrier, more commonly known as a Westie or Westy, is a small dog with short legs and a longer body. They’re playful, adorable and full of self-assurance.

Is the West Highland Terrier a smart dog?

West Highland terriers are not ranked among the smartest of all dog breeds, and their attention spans can be somewhat short!

What kind of personality does a West Highland Terrier have?

Personality The West Highland White Terrier is a bold, confident, fun-loving, intelligent dog who can find joy in the simplest pleasures of life, such as squeaky toys, a belly rub, and food. His happy disposition and love of life make him a favorite for many, in spite of his mischievousness.

How often should I Feed my West Highland Terrier?

West Highland Terrier Feeding Schedule. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day until it is four months old. A young puppy must be fed more often, because it has a smaller stomach and is growing at a very fast pace. After four months of age it is recommended to decrease feeding to twice a day.

What is the lifespan of a West Highland Terrier?

The West Highland White Terrier or “Westie” has a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. The West Highland White Terrier descended from one of five terrier breeds developed in Scotland .

What is the personality of a West Highland Terrier?

How much does a West Highland Terrier cost?

The current median price for all West Highland White Terrier Westies sold is $962.50. This is the price you can expect to budget for a West Highland White Terrier – Westie with papers but without breeding rights nor show quality.

How big do West Highland White Terriers get?

Size The West Highland White Terrier is a sturdy little dog with a deep chest and a slightly rectangular shape. Males are about 11 inches tall and typically weigh 15 to 22 pounds; females are roughly 10 inches tall and weigh 13 to 16 pounds.

Why are West Highland Terriers called Roseneath Terriers?

They weren’t always called West Highland White Terriers – they used to be known as Roseneath terriers. Westies are always white! Because of this, their ears can easily get sunburnt so make sure to protect them in the sun. They’re known for being mischievous dogs and love to keep their owners entertained.

Is there such a thing as a Westie white terrier?

A Westie-proof garden is a must! They weren’t always called West Highland White Terriers – they used to be known as Roseneath terriers. Westies are always white! Because of this, their ears can easily get sunburnt so make sure to protect them in the sun.

How much does a West Highland white terrier cost?

Not to mention that they are very much affordable. West Highland White Terrier price can go as low as $600 to as much as $1,400 depending on the breeder. This price may or may not be influenced by the additional stuff included in the purchase such as initial veterinary care, pet supplies, grooming costs, and health certification, among others.

What are the characteristics of a West Highland white terrier?

Key Characteristics. The West Highland White Terrier, often referred to as the Westie, is a small, strongly built dog and one of the most popular terriers. They have black noses and almond-shaped, wide-set, black-rimmed dark brown eyes and ears that are triangular and stand erect.

What is the average weight of a West Highland white terrier?

Male West Highland White Terriers are about 11 inches tall at the withers (where the shoulder blades come together); females are 10 inches tall. Males typically weigh 15 to 22 pounds, and females 13 to 15 pounds.

What do West Highland white terriers eat?

If your West Highland White Terrier puppy does well on this puppy food, Canidae has some good adult foods – both grain free and foods with grains. Main Ingredients: Chicken, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lentils, Peas, Potatoes

Is the West Highland Terrier an aggressive dog?

West Highland Terrier are not as a rule an aggressive dog, but if poorly socialized you could end up with a “snappy” dog who tries to rule the household. (learn what to do from day one) Understand the “mentality” of your West Highland Terrier.

How old should a West Highland Terrier be?

Too much indulging in rich treats can lead to a very heavy dog. These are hardy little dogs, often living well into their teen years. All Westies should be socialized early and continuously, especially to other dogs and to other pets. These are dogs still close to their roots of hunting and do best with plenty of exercise.

What kind of disease does a West Highland Terrier have?

A recent study found that 66% of West Highland White Terriers experienced some skin disease by age 3. A rare and nasty inherited condition is called “epidermal dysplasia” or Westie Armadillo Syndrome. This begins to affect dogs between 3 and 12 months old, making their head, feet, and belly inflamed and itchy.

Where did the West Highland Terrier get its name?

The West Highland white terrier has a variety of names from its places of origin in the British Isles. Back as far as King James I in the early 1600s, the tough little white dogs were known and admired as the dogs of Argyleshire.

Where can I adopt a Westie white terrier?

If you’re looking for a Westie, West Highland White Terrier, Adopt-a-Pet.com can help you find one near you. Use the search tool below and browse adoptable Westies!

What can I do for my West Highland Terrier?

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy (PEMF) has been reported to ease the symptoms of allergies and infections in humans. It may be useful for providing relief related to itching skin in a West Highland White Terrier. And, happily, PEMF has no side effects as medications do.

What kind of behavior does a West Highland Terrier have?

The Westie likes to dig and bark. If a Westie is allowed to become the pack leader, it may snap when irritated and be combative with other dogs. A lack of leadership on the owner’s part can cause many behavior problems, such as biting, guarding food and furniture.

What causes tremors in a West Highland Terrier?

White Shaker Dog Syndrome This is a poorly understood neuromuscular disease that causes tremors in small dogs such as the West Highland White Terrier. It develops suddenly around 2 years of age and can lead to seizures and difficulty walking in some dogs. The syndrome generally responds to steroids, and in some cases may disappear with time.

What kind of dog is Captain West Highland Terrier?

Captain is a very well mannered purebred West Highland Terrier. He is great with family including children. Very obedient and well-mannered. We would love to… Are you sure you want to permanently delete this listing ? Creating a memorial for your dog will remove it from the active listings, and should only be done for dogs which have passed away.

How old is Cody the West Highland white terrier?

Cody the Westie at 5 years old Play Dog Trivia! List of West Highland White Terrier Mix Breed Dogs Dog DNA Tests Other Names Westie Pronunciation west HAHY-luhnd wahyt TAIR-ee-uhr Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The West Highland White Terrier, often simply called the Westie, is a small, sturdy dog.

What’s the right weight for a West Highland Terrier?

However, for West Highland Terriers weighing just 10kg a 175g bar of dark chocolate could prove deadly. Use the dog weight chart at the bottom of this page to find the ideal weight range of each breed.

Why does my West Highland white terrier itch?

But when the poor puppy’s skin becomes broken by scratching, yeast seize the opportunity to attack. So when you see inflamed skin and intense itching in a Westie puppy, more common conditions like allergies and mange do need to be ruled out….but these symptoms are ominous warning signs of epidermal dysplasia.

It is a hardy breed, and can be stubborn, leading to issues with training. A Westie may need to have its training refreshed on occasion during its lifetime. Having a typical terrier prey drive, it tends to be highly interested in toys, especially chasing balls.

How many puppies does a West Highland Terrier have?

There are typically three to five puppies born in a litter. Their lifespan can range from 12-17 years. Westies are a very popular breed in the U.K. and the United States.

How to take care of a West Highland white terrier?

By Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Breed Selection Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books Start your West Highland White Terrier off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you’re going to spay or neuter, don’t do it too early.

What kind of health problems does a West Highland Terrier have?

Complete list of West Highland White Terrier health problems. Hereditary eye diseases include “dry eye” and cataracts. In a Swedish study, cataracts were found in over HALF the Westies examined. Cataracts are not as common in American Westies, but they definitely occur and can lead to blindness.

If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake as this can unbalance their diet. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine.

Can a West Highland white terrier have allergies?

Many Westie owners complain of their dog suffering from allergies. The West Highland White Terrier is a breed that can be quite prone to allergies. The majority of Westies will develop some allergies as they age. Certainly not all Westies, but a large percentage.

What does Wandering Dew do to a West Highland Terrier?

Wandering Dew is a very common variety of grass that a lot of dogs have issues with. Generally, the most obvious signs of this kind of issue are your dog will lick excessively at the bottom of their paws. The fur under the pads will be red as the result of saliva staining. It is not uncommon to see a Westie with red staining on their white coat.

How big does a West Highland white terrier get?

What should I Feed my West Highland white terrier?

1 Determining Weight. The amount of dry dog food you feed your West Highland White Terrier is based on the dog’s weight and the calorie content of the food. 2 Calories Required. 3 Dry Food. 4 Canned Dog Food. 5 Portion Size. 6 Ingredients. 7 Skin Issues. 8 Other Health Concerns. 9 Warning.

Where can I get a West Highland white terrier?

Westie Rescue USA is a national clearinghouse for reputable organizations serving West Highland White Terriers in need all across America. This website is supported by Westie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc., a nonprofit organization.

What’s the average lifespan of a West Highland Terrier?

It does retain the instincts of an earth-dog, including inquisitive and investigative traits, as well as natural instincts to bark and dig holes. It is ranked in the average range as 88th in Stanley Coren ‘s The Intelligence of Dogs. The American breed club puts the lifespan of the Westie at 12 to 16 years.

West Highland White Terriers are small, white dogs originally bred in Scotland for hunting, but today, they mostly earn their keep as loyal little companions. Members of this breed suffer more frequently than most other breeds from a sensitive stomach, food allergies and diabetes, and feeding choices can help with these issues.

When did the West Highland Terrier come out?

The puppies were bred to create the West Highland White Terrier, although they are technically white Cairn Terriers. The dogs first appeared as Westies at the Crufts Dog Show in London in 1907. The dogs appeared in the United States of America in 1906, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1908.

Is the West Highland Terrier an easy dog to keep?

Terriers in general are easy dogs to keep, bred to exist on scraps and their own hunting skills. Too much indulging in rich treats can lead to a very heavy dog. These are hardy little dogs, often living well into their teen years. All Westies should be socialized early and continuously, especially to other dogs and to other pets.

What kind of health problems do West Highland Terriers have?

HIGH: There are many health issues to be aware of for this breed. According to a health survey conducted by the West Highland White Terrier Club of America, the following conditions are most often seen in Westies: Atopic dermatitis. Luxating patella. Aggression. Inflammatory bowel disease. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.

How old is Lexie the West Highland Terrier?

We have a nine month old Westie girl for sale, she is purebred and absolutely gorgeous. Lexie is vaccinated, vet checked & wormed, very healthy and allergy free… I have a 3 yr old purebred westie avail for mating.

Is the West Highland dog a hypoallergenic dog?

And although they are not hypoallergenic dogs, you will notice that Westies shed very little hair. So, let’s look at the Westie’s temperament to see if this breed is right for your home. When it comes to the West Highland’s temperament, don’t be fooled by their diminutive size and adorable cuteness!

How to find out how big your West Highland white terrier puppy?

For a more accurate estimate, enter your West Highland White Terrier puppy’s current age and weight into our Puppy Weight Predictor to predict its adult size. Please note this is an estimate based on typical growth patterns for West Highland White Terrier puppies.

Are there any health problems with West Highland Terriers?

Here are a some known health problems that may be found in West Highland Terriers, including their symptoms and treatment. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) – Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca is also called dry eye. Westies are prone to having this minor and common health problem.

How long does West Highland Terrier dog food last?

Food can last 14-days in your refrigerator if the trays aren’t opened. You’ll also receive a scooper for portion control. Nom Nom can then customize your Westie’s dog food. Next, you’ll be given a recipe with the exact portion size, so you won’t have to guess how much they need to eat.

Can a West Highland Terrier be aggressive to other dogs?

Possible animal aggression. West Highland White Terriers are often more tolerant toward other dogs and cats than many other terriers are, especially dogs and cats who belong to their own family. But many Westies are still dominant or aggressive toward strange dogs. Westies should not be trusted off-leash.

How much does it cost to adopt a West Highland Terrier?

You can adopt a West Highland White Terrier at a much lower cost than buying one from a breeder. The cost to adopt Westies are around $300 in order to cover the expenses of caring for the dog before adoption. In contrast, buying Westies from breeders can be prohibitively expensive.