There’s something undoubtedly enchanting about West Highland puppies, or ‘Westies’, as they’re commonly called. Be prepared for their transition journey from cuddly pups to adorable and energetic adults who reach a respectable height of around 10″ and weight of approximately 18 pounds.
A Closer Look at the Traits of West Highland Puppies
As compact members of the terrier family, it’s a joy to watch these pups blossom into quick learners. Their high trainability enables the easy molding of their natural tendencies, such as their creative digging skills, into quickly adaptable characteristics. Early socialization can also help your Westie get along smoothly with other pets and small children.
Nipping Curious Habits
The young West Highland puppy is a natural digger. Providing them with a dedicated space for their digging fun will save your garden from turning into a mini excavation site. These bundles of joy are also adaptable and can make great companions in apartments, provided they’re taken for one or two refreshing walks daily. A Westie deprived of exercise, however, could fall into the trap of laziness, affecting its overall health. The right care can extend their lifespan to a comfortable 15 years or more.
See Related: The Ultimate Guide to Handling an Aggressive Puppy: Effective Strategies and Training Tips
Westie’s Playful Personality
Unyielding in their quest for attention and play, West Highland Puppies endure a fair bit of rambunctious play, which makes them an attractive choice for families with young children. Always up for a challenge, these pups can display impressive problem-solving skills when they’re left to their own devices. But forget not, their cuteness cloaks their primal instincts of hunting that once made them successful exterminators of rats in their homeland, Scotland.
See Related: The Ultimate Guide to Puppy Feeding
Westie’s Origin and Health
With a heritage deeply rooted in Scotland, the Western Highland Terrier breed found its recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1908. To ensure you bring home a healthy West Highland pup, it’s recommended to engage with professional or expert hobby breeders. They raise litters diligently and can provide invaluable guidance on bringing up your pup into a well-adjusted adult.
Is a West Highland Puppy for you?
The allure of West Highland puppies may seem irresistible, but bear in mind, raising these terrier family members can pose a challenging yet gratifying experience. For first-time owners, it might be wise to consider Westies that might be slightly older but have begun their basic training. While this may cost a tad more, the initial lessons offered by breeders could prove advantageous in the long run. Despite their small size, these dogs can adapt to various living conditions, making them loving companions for a single person or a large family!
Related Resources: