West Highland White Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is a small, sturdy Scottish earthdog with a bright white double coat and an irrepressibly confident, friendly personality. Bred to hunt rats, fox, and badger in the Highlands, it combines terrier grit with a sociable, people-loving nature that has made it one of the most popular companion terriers. Bold, curious, and full of self-assurance, the Westie is hardy and adaptable to city or country life. Its harsh white coat needs regular grooming, and its digging and chasing instincts remain strong beneath the charming exterior.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Confident, friendly, and adaptable companion
- Hardy and long-lived
- Suits apartments or houses with modest exercise
- Low-shedding coat with regular grooming
Things to consider
- Coat requires regular stripping or clipping
- Prone to barking and digging
- Independent terrier streak needs firm training
- Can be predisposed to skin conditions
History
The Westie descends from white-coated working terriers of western Scotland, with tradition crediting Colonel Edward Malcolm of Poltalloch for selecting white dogs after a reddish terrier was mistaken for a fox and shot. Related to Cairn and Scottish terriers, it was standardized around 1900 and recognized by the AKC in 1908. It quickly became a beloved companion and show dog.
Temperament
Confident, friendly, and lively, the Westie is more outgoing and less aloof than many terriers, enjoying the company of people and often other dogs. It is bold, curious, and self-assured, with a strong independent streak. Alert and clever, it makes a good little watchdog and responds well to upbeat training.
Questions to ask a West Highland White Terrier breeder
- Have the parents been screened for skin and eye conditions?
- Is there any history of Legg-Calve-Perthes or jaw disease in the line?
- How is the temperament of the parents with children and dogs?
- What coat-care routine do you recommend for this line?
Health considerations to discuss
Atopic dermatitis. Westies are notably prone to allergic skin disease.
Craniomandibular osteopathy. A jawbone disorder seen in young terriers of this type.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. A hip condition affecting some small breeds.
Pulmonary fibrosis. Westie lung disease can affect older dogs; note breathing changes.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any West Highland White Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a West Highland White Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the West Highland White Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a West Highland White Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.