You didn’t land on the West highland white terrier by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Confident and cheerful, tenacious in the most charming way, and self-assured without being difficult, they’re a natural fit for individuals, families, apartment dwellers, and first-time owners who want a spirited small terrier with genuine character who want a confident, cheerful, and entertaining small terrier who brings real personality to any household. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a West highland white terrier?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a West highland white terrier? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Bright and quick. Westies learn well when motivated but apply their intelligence selectively. Food is your best tool |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Can be reliable when training is consistent and engaging. Their terrier independence shows when motivation drops |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Attentive in short sessions. Their terrier brain means distractions are hard to ignore |
| Stubbornness | 4 out of 5 | Typical terrier stubbornness. They have opinions and aren't afraid to act on them |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 4 out of 5 | Friendly and affectionate with their household |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | Generally good with older children who handle them appropriately |
| Good with strangers | 3 out of 5 | Outgoing and confident with new people. Some can be cautious at first |
| Good with other dogs | 3 out of 5 | Usually fine with other dogs. Their confidence means they won't back down from a challenge |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 5 out of 5 | Excellent for apartment living. Compact, manageable, and adaptable |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Their double coat provides decent protection in cool weather |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 4 out of 5 | Adaptable to different routines and environments |
| First time owner | 4 out of 5 | A good option for first-time owners who understand and enjoy terrier temperament |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 3 out of 5 | Moderate energy. Lively and active without being exhaustingly high-drive |
| Endurance | 2 out of 5 | Not built for long endurance efforts. Short, vigorous activity suits them |
| Exercise needs | 3 out of 5 | Needs 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Smart and curious. Mental engagement keeps them out of trouble |
| Grooming needs | 3 out of 5 | Their harsh double coat needs regular professional stripping or clipping |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful and spirited throughout their life |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | Affectionate with their people, though they maintain their independence |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Loyal and devoted to their household |
| Independence | 3 out of 5 | Typical terrier independence. They can handle alone time better than many small breeds |
| Alertness | 4 out of 5 | Alert and curious. They react to sounds and movement readily |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 4 out of 5 | Vocal breed. Barking is a natural terrier behavior and happens frequently |
| Digging tendency | 4 out of 5 | Significant digging tendency. This is a dog bred to go underground |
| Chewing tendency | 3 out of 5 | Moderate chewing |
| Prey drive | 4 out of 5 | High prey drive. Small animals trigger a strong chase response |
| Guarding instincts | 3 out of 5 | Alert and vocal enough to serve as an alarm dog |
What are common health issues of a West highland white terrier?
Like all breeds, West highland white terriers are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Allergies
Westies are prone to skin allergies triggered by food, pollen, or environmental factors. Itching, redness, and recurring skin irritation are among the most common signs to watch for.
Read more about AllergiesPulmonary Fibrosis
A condition where lung tissue gradually scars and stiffens, making breathing harder over time. It is more common in Westies than most breeds. A dry cough and low energy are early signs.
Read more about Pulmonary FibrosisInflammatory Bowel Disease
A chronic condition where the digestive tract becomes inflamed, affecting how food is absorbed. In Westies, vomiting, diarrhea, and gradual weight loss are the most common signs.
Read more about Inflammatory Bowel DiseaseAddison's Disease
A hormonal condition where the adrenal glands underperform. Westies can be prone to it. Signs can be vague, including lethargy, vomiting, and low energy. A vet can confirm with tests.
Read more about Addison's DiseaseCataracts
A clouding of the eye lens that can affect vision. Westies are prone to hereditary cataracts that can appear earlier than in most breeds. A vet can monitor and advise on options.
Read more about CataractsWhat are the recommended health tests for West highland white terriers?
Your West highland white terrier can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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OFA patella evaluation -
CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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OFA hip evaluation
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Do West highland white terriers need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of West highland white terrier owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real West highland white terrier owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Westie specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
West highland white terriers are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Westies age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other West highland white terrier owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $50-$55 |
| 2 years old | $45-$50 |
| 3 years old | $45-$50 |
| 4 years old | $45-$50 |
| 5 years old | $55-$60 |
| 6 years old | $60-$65 |
| 7 years old | $70-$75 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Westie?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your West highland white terrier and your budget.
History of the West highland white terrier
The West Highland White Terrier was developed in Scotland in the 19th century, primarily by Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch in Argyllshire. Scottish terriers of various types were commonly used to hunt foxes, badgers, and otters in the rocky highland terrain, and a distinct white-coated variety was selectively bred so the dogs could be easily distinguished from the quarry during hunts. The breed is closely related to the Cairn Terrier and Scottish Terrier, and all three descend from similar highland working terrier stock. The Westie was first shown in Britain in 1899 under several names before being officially named the West Highland White Terrier in 1904. The AKC recognized the breed in 1908. Their cheerful expression, bright white coat, and confident carriage have made them one of the most recognizable and beloved terriers in the world.
Caring for a West highland white terrier
Training
Training a West highland white terrier takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are independent, clever, and terrier-stubborn, which means owners need to be firm and consistent while keeping sessions fun enough to hold their interest. Short, positive sessions with high-value treats and a patient, persistent approach tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
West highland white terriers have a thick double coat that requires moderate grooming. Brush 2 to 3 times per week to keep the coat clean and free of tangles, and the occasional hand-strip or clip keeps them looking their best. Professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks maintains the breed's signature crisp white coat.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Westie looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
West highland white terriers have high energy levels and need 45 to 60 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Fetch, digging games, and short agility activities are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. West highland white terriers are highly intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become vocal, mischievous, and prone to destructive digging and barking. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your West highland white terrier will actually love.
Nutrition
West highland white terriers are small dogs with high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 450 to 600 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $25 to $45 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a West highland white terrier here.
West highland white terrier costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a West highland white terrier?
Before your West highland white terrier even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $800-$2,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$500 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $100-$300 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $100-$200 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a West highland white terrier each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most West highland white terrier owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $300-$600 | Based on the recommended portion for your West highland white terrier |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $300-$600 | Every Every 6 to 8 weeks, Double coat requires regular professional grooming to maintain its shape and texture. |
| Toys and Supplies | $100-$300 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular West highland white terrier names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for West highland white terrier we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
West highland white terrier puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
West highland white terrier puppies are confident, cheerful, and self-possessed in a way that makes them genuinely entertaining. That a spirited boldness and independence that gives them more personality than most small breeds is part of what makes them a charming, spirited terrier for owners who enjoy real character and can appreciate the stubbornness that comes with it, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a West highland white terrier brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are West highland white terrier’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, West highland white terriers are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
3. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
4. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
5. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a West highland white terrier? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Cairn Terrier
Both are small, bold Scottish terriers. Cairn Terriers are slightly scruffier and more independent. Westies are more refined, better known, and slightly better suited to family life.
Read more
Scottish Terrier
Both are bold, independent Scottish terriers. Scotties are more aloof and reserved with strangers. Westies are more outgoing, friendlier, and better suited to active family households.
Read more
Border Terrier
Both are small, energetic terriers. Border Terriers are calmer and more adaptable. Westies are more bold, more independent, and have a stronger terrier drive for their small size.
Read more
Maltese
Both are small, white companion dogs. Maltese are more gentle and lap-dog-oriented. Westies are bolder, more independent, and have a stronger terrier personality overall.
Read more
Bichon Frise
Both are small, white, low-shedding dogs. Bichons are more gentle and easier to train. Westies are bolder, more independent, and have a stronger terrier personality overall.
Read moreIs a West highland white terrier right for you?
West highland white terriers reward the right owner with a cheerful confidence that makes them entertaining companions in almost any setting and a hardy, alert presence that makes a small household feel more lively. They just need consistent training with patience and rewards, regular professional grooming, dental care, and secure fencing in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a West highland white terrier. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.