Westies or Should I Say West Highland White Terriers ...

Westies Are Great Little Dogs!

By Sharon Stajda,

West Highland White Terrier, Westie, little white dog. What ever you call them --- they are light hearted, and have such big personalities... So you have decided you are going to buy a West Highland white terrier, otherwise known as a Westie. Westies are great little light-hearted dogs. They are quick to learn, and as a rule they are very self sufficient, and have wonderful, unique personalities. Most Westie owners will tell you that their dog possesses a "big personality." They are lovable, but will never be mistaken for a lap dog.

If you are looking for a cuddly lap dog, a Westie may not be the right breed for you. They are notoriously independent, and won't tolerate being held for very long periods. They like to be in close proximity to their owner/families, but they need their space. As a rule, when a Westie chooses a sleeping area they will find a private space. Away from the family, this sleeping area will most likely be somewhat protected on three sides; they also like to "cover their backs" when they sleep. Naturally there are exceptions to the rule. If the dog is taught to be a bit of a lap dog, they will most likely be a lap dog. But the Westie is not a natural lap dog. They like to call the shots, so to speak.

The Westie likes to be taken along with the family whenever possible. They are friendly, and love people in general, especially children. They are very loyal to their families and prefer being with their owners/families whenever possible.

When purchasing a dog most people prefer to buy a young puppy, and train the dog themselves. This can be rewarding. If buying a puppy, make sure you are home regularly enough to train the puppy properly. Westies are easy to train, but someone has to be in the home to do the training. Remember, it can be a frustrating and time consuming task to train a puppy. The other option is to purchase a dog that is a bit older, and has already been trained by the breeder. This is a good option, and many breeders can accommodate with a dog that is a little older and trained.

Male or female? In regard to temperament, there is little or no difference between the two in the Westie breed. It is said that Westie males are more affectionate than female Westies. The female is smaller and lighter, so easier to control on a walk or carry when necessary.

This pure white, sturdy small-framed dog is always full of energy and always on the alert and looking for fun. They love to get out and walk, and run in a wooded area, looking for game.

Westies' ears stand up naturally at each side of their fluffy, happy face. At the opposite end, a perky short tail, which - by nature's design - comes to a gradual point. As adults, it is desirable for the male Westie to be 11 inches in height; the female 10 inches in height. A Westies coat should be pure white. They have a double coat; the under coat being soft and fluffy, the top coat a bit coarse and wiry. This dual coat is natural to the Westie. The breed was developed and bread for a hard and dangerous job - that of hunting out and killing vermin. So the dual coat provides the Westie a good natural form of protection, not only from the elements, but the claws and teeth of its prey. The dry texture of the Westies coat also works to cut down on doggy odor. Due to this dryer coat they require less baths. They can be kept clean with frequent brushing and dry cleaning (this is done by adding a bit of corn starch to the dogs coat, brushing it out after a few minutes.)

Choosing a reputable breeder is very important. It is impossible to know when picking out your particular puppy just how that dog will turn out emotionally and physically. This is the best reason to find a good reputable breeder. A good breeder strives to breed healthy dogs that will exhibit traits that are natural to the dog they chose to breed. There are three choices when it comes to breeders; pet shop breeders, back yard breeders, and serious hobby breeders.

The pet shop breeder is the worst possible choice you can make when buying a dog. The puppies are poorly bred, and are thought of as merchandise to be sold for at a high profit. This form of breeding as a rule puts out sickly, unstable dogs, and I highly recommend you stay clear of pet shop breeders.

The backyard breeder can also be a poor choice. This type of breeder may

be a Westie owner that thought it would be "fun" to have puppies. They know little about puppies and the training of puppies. As a rule they are not well acquainted with the stud dogs, and can offer little information on his background. They are unaware of the history of the breed, and any special needs of a given breed. To sum it up, they are ill-equipped to breed dogs, and lack the knowledge one needs to be a good breeder.

Your best choice when buying a dog is to find a serious hobby breeder. They have done their homework on the breed they are selling. As a rule, they are dog fanciers and do not look at breeding as a profit-only venture. They are breeding for show dogs. They strive to breed the best of their chosen breed. They will take responsibility for any and all pups produced, and stand behind their dogs. You can be assured the dogs are healthy, and have been given all the veterinary care they need as puppies along with proper training. A good breeder of Westies will belong to the "West Highland White Terrier Club of America", and/or other well known Westie Clubs. They will most likely be involved in showing their dogs. A good breeder will ask you questions, and be very discriminating on the homes their puppies go to. They will guarantee their puppies, with an agreement to take the puppy back if for some reason you find you are not compatible with your new puppy. They will give you time to have the puppy looked at by a veterinarian of your choice, just to ensure there are no health problems looming, and that the puppy is in a good healthy condition.

A good breeder will have numerous references. They will be able to provide you with such references, in the way of other persons that have purchased dogs from them, along with their own veterinarians references. The breeder should be able to answer questions on the breed, and show a good knowledge of the breeds history. The breeder should also provide written instructions in regard to the puppies needs. Diet, exercise, and health care needs as a puppy and adult dog. The kennels should be clean, providing the dogs with a healthy environment. The dogs should be comfortable with the breeder, and show a good rapport with them. The dogs in the kennels should be of good temperament, and healthy in appearance. The good breeder will never sell a puppy that is too young to leave its mother.

And finally, the breeder should provide you with a record of the dates and types of vaccinations and worming that has been done on your puppy, along with any and all records on visits to the vet the puppy may have required while in the breeder's care. It is also desirable to ask questions on the health of the parent dogs. The breeder must provide you with A 3- to 5-generation pedigree, and a "blue slip" to apply for registration of the Westie into the AKA.

Once you have found a trustworthy breeder here are a few tips on choosing the right puppy: Age is important; a puppy is usually ready to be taken to its new home at the age of eight to twelve weeks. You may find that all Westie pups look alike; they pretty much do all look alike. Look for a puppy with a sturdy build. The dog should feel firm, with good muscle tone. Their legs should be straight. The pup should be active when picked up, squirmy, after a short time relaxing and willing to be petted and cuddled a bit. Their coats should be thick and clean. There should be no discharge from eyes, nose or ears, and no odor at the ears. The eyes should be bright, with an alert look. The gums should be moist and pink. The dog should be active with the other pups. It's a good idea to ask the breeder about the puppies personality. They can help you pick a dog that will be suited to your needs and your personality.

It is always smart to observe the dam for her traits. Does she appear overly shy, aggressive, stand-offish. Is she patient and watchful of the puppies, and not overly aggressive of the liter? Do the parent dogs look in good health? Are their coats healthy and do they appear active with good stamina? It is well known puppies can and do inherit traits from the parent dogs.

If you do your homework, you are more likely to pick just the right dog. The Westie is a wonderful breed. They are bright, happy spirited dogs, and will bring with them their own special outgoing personality. They will fast become

your best friend.

New Flickr Pictures

You Got A Friend----

Westies are so intelligent....And Serious minded too...

Westies don't mind getting caught in the rain...

"West Highland White Terrier" by Jaime Bazan

Oh--- Them eyes

westies run like the wind---

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Helpful Article's

Choosing A Pet: Of all the animals man has domesticated, the dog has won the highest place in affection and the most secure position in the home. It is the animal that most easily becomes a member of the family, read more...
Dogs That Are Different: Just as there are people who are rare in the world of human beings, there are dogs that stand out in the dog world because of something unusual about them. Read More...
Westie Chat: Great Chat-line for westie lover's...
Westie Rescue: Welcome to Westie Rescue USA, sponsored by Westie Rescue of the MidAtlantic States, Inc. Read More...

New YouTube

MAX...SMALL WONDER

Max is a wonderful little West Highland Terrier who takes on all comers in the dog park. He loves to play with Siro the most...but he likes Twyla, too.

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A Few Of My Articles On Westie Tips...

Some Westies--- are more prone to breed disorders. Such as ALLERGIES! Which lead to skin problem's. My Rose is a westie that drew a bad lot... She has food allergies, and the skin problem that go with them. Over the years I have had to improvise in regard to her care. Below are some tips. I hope some of you dog lovers will add some of your tried a true tips on dog care at my guestbook...

Rose's All Natural Rinse: Is your dog's skin overly dry or flaky? Is its coat dull, and lack luster? Are there any problems that should be taken into consideration, such as lesions or rashes? Does the dog scratch, and bit areas of its body?

Please read on for Recipe for Rose's Rinse....
Safe Travel With Your Pet: If you own a pet at some point you might have to travel with that pet. It is very important to take your pets well being and safety into consideration.

I have several great tips to help you get through the challenge of traveling with your pet. Read More...
Doggiepedia: Please consider visiting my Lens "Doggiepedia". I have loads of info on pet travel, and more... Did you relize that some dogs now can fly in the airplane cabin, right beside you? Check it out at Doggiepedia...

New Flickr Pictures

Wee Highland Terriers...

Westies love kids!

Westies love other Westies, check out their smiles... To die for!

Westies love to play in the snow...

Westies are the best Parents---

Westies are so--- social...

Westies appreciate a good long walk...

The Westies dog club by I love Bainbridge Island

They are happy when they take a nice walk...

They are always thinking? You just never can figure out, what about?

West Highland White Terrier 3 by alina_muresan1980

Twice as nice, three yee !!!

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Rose's Doggie Banana Biscotti - Bellissimo!

I highly recommend this dog treat for all dogs, but especially for dogs that suffer with allergy problems

After learning that my Westie Rose had several allergies, it had me checking all of her dry dog food, and goodies for the forbidden ingredients. She ended up being allergic to some of the most common ingredient in dry pet food, ingredients such as, beef, rice, corn, flax, milk, soy, white potato, and corn. As you can see from this list, it was not going to be easy to find a food that would be void of these popular ingredients. I had my work cut out for me?

It took a bit of work, and research to find a dry food Rose could eat, without aggravating her allergies. I finely found a dry dog food that would suit Rose's dietary needs.

The dog food is a fish and sweet potato formula made by California Choice. She loves it, and it is void of all the additives she is allergic to.

I wasn't having as much luck finding goodies that Rose would not turn her nose up at... Yes Rose is a bit spoiled, as you most likely have realized by now? Well---I found a Doggie Bakery that could develop a custom treat for Rose. After the baker quoted a price per pound for these personalized treats, I decided quickly that this was not an affordable option for Rose's dilemma.

I got to thinking; Rose loves people cookies, and begs with good vigor whenever one is in her vicinity. Perhaps I could whip up a wonderful, healthy treat for her myself.

I wanted to make a treat that would be not only healthy, but tasty. It also needed to be hard and crunchy. The consistencies that Rose was accustomed to, and would help keep her teeth clean. It didn't take but a moment before one cookie came to mind, Biscotti! Yes Biscotti, let's face it a stale Biscotti is so hard it could well be considered in the same class as a dog biscuit.

I developed the recipe with care. Adding ingredients that would provide Rose with not only a wonderful tasting treat, but would supply her with all the daily nutrients, protein, fiber, and vitamins she required, to sustain good dog health. After some lengthy research I came up with the major food ingredients I wanted to include in the Biscotti. Each ingredient was chosen not only to provide great taste, but also to provide good nutrition. Below is the recipe for my special healthy Dog Biscotti, I hope your dog enjoys this taste treat!

Recipe For Rose's Special Biscotti....

Rose's Banana Biscotti

4 cups flour

1 cup oatmeal (ground fine)

1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil

1 egg

1 1/2 cup pureed banana

3 Tablespoons brown sugar

1/3 cups well chopped peanuts

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons vanilla

You may need small amount of water.

Preheat oven to 325. Add all dry ingredients to large bowl, form a well with dry ingredients. Blend oil, banana, and egg with blender or food processor. Add a bit into well, start to incorporate wet with dry ingredients. Adding a small amount until all is mixed. Ay this time you may have to add a small amount of water. Add 1 teaspoon at a time. Knead with your hands until you have a soft none sticky dough.

Form dough into a log, approximately 2 inches wide by 2 ½ inches high. Now flatten the log, until it is approximately 6 inches wide and 1 inch high.

Place log into a non-stick baking sheet that has been lightly greased. Place in oven, bake for 30-40 minutes. Remove from oven, cool for 10 minutes. With a sharp knife cut across the log in ½ inch pieces. (If your dog is a small breed cut Biscotti once more in the middle, making two cookies, instead of the larger 1 cookie).

Place all cookies back on baking sheet, bake at 325 for 20 minutes. Let the Biscotti air cool for 2 hours. Store some in an air tight container, freeze some for future needs.

Rose's Biscotti are packed full of nutrients, fiber, protein, Vitamins, and Carbohydrates, along with Omega 6 fatty acids and loads of trace elements.

Last but not least, Rose loves her nightly treat...

A Word To The Wise--On Westie Allergies and Skin Problems

Read Rose's Story. A story about a Westie that was poorly diagnosed which lead to a life of skin problem...

In regard to westie's being prone to having allergies. It is true the breed does appear to be prone to develop allergies.

My westie Rose is 13. For most of her life she suffered with skin problem's. The vet claimed she had allergies. On several occasions I requested blood work be done, just to narrow down what she was allergic to? I was told repeatedly the blood work was not necessary. Followed by the speech, " its not unusual for Westies to have allergies, it comes with the breed. Don't waste your money on blood work..."

Waste my money ! Let me count the ways or should I say the money I spent on vet bills...

The treatment prescribed for Rose was the" normal treatment " that westies receive , when they have allergies's. Prednisone, and antibiotics. I also developed treatments of my own, in regards to herbal rinses and such.

I will make a long story short. I went on a two week vacation. Rose was staying with my son, and daughter-in- law (Liz). Mid vacation I got the call- Rose was seriously ill, and had lost most of her hair.

Liz had rushed the dog to an animal emergency hospital. Well Rose ended up being diagnosed Demodex mites. The animal hospital recommenced I change vets. I will never forget seeing Rose the night we returned from out trip. She was lifeless, and in pain. I new Demodex mites was a condition that could occur due to a dog not having a healthy immune system. I put two and two together. I am an RN by profession, and I new the years of steroids would at some point catch up with Rose... Well that day had come.

I took her to a new vet the following morning after our return. The new vet, was shocked at her condition. We had all of Rose's medical records fax to the new vet. Rose' was slowly weaned off of steroids, and given antibiotics to help with the wounds and balding.

The new vet did extensive blood work. Along with allergy testing. Low and behold, Rose was only allergic to 7 foods, and nothing else! I got Rose on a good diet void of the foods she was allergic to. She has been steroid free for over 8 months... She is doing wonderful, her coat is lovely, no more sores. She has regained her stamina, and runs with the big dogs again.

Rose's new vet feels Rose has had Demodex mites for most of her life. The allergies were somewhat minor. I have to agree with her, due to the fact Rose is doing so well!

Lavender Can Chase Away Fleas... Without causing Skin Problems

Lavender Can Chase Away Fleas...
Did you know lavender is a great flea repellent? Well, it is... I use lavender in many ways on my dog Rose. Check out Rose's Rinse. This rinse contains dried lavender bud, which not only soften, and soothe her skin, but repels bugs... Such as fleas, mosquitoes, ticks, and more.

I also make my own pet flea collars, just add lavender oil to a bandana or woven rope type collar, again it helps with doggie odor, plus repels bugs.

Does your dog sleep in a doggie bed or favorite blanket? Tuck a sachet of lavender under the lining of the bed. To chase away bugs. You can also just add drops of lavender oil to final rinse when washing your pets blanket.

ALERT ... If Your Westie Has Allergies, And You Are Having a Hard Time Finding A Good Dry Food To Feed Them?

Please check out foods made by the company Natura. I feed Rose California Natural! Natura use only ingredients that are produced right here in the USA.

This company makes their dry dog foods in their own factory, from ingredients that are only produced here in the USA. These variables gives an added safeguard against the resent problems with the wheat gluten that is being imported from China that has been finding its way into our pets food, and causing death, and serious problems in pets.

I feed Rose (My Westie) California Natural Herring & Sweet Potato formula. She loves it, and her skin and coat are wonderful.

I have added the link to Natura,the company that makes California Natural Pet Foods.You Will Find It Just Below.

Stop in and reserch the foods they offer. I might mention the price's on their foods are very reasonable.

Pet Foods By Natura

California Natural Pet Foods...: Natura makers of California Natural, never uses cheap pet food ingredients,in any of their foods. Such as protein fillers, or even premium ingredients that can be highly allergic to pets with sensitive systems. In fact, they have the shortest ingredient list of any dry pet food on the market, and combine just one protein, one fat and one carbohydrate source to create a hypoallergenic pet food. You won't see anything on the lables that are chemical in nature.

Do Allergies Have Your Westie Uncomfortable, and Blue?

Check out link below...

New The Link List

What's Behind Your Dog's Allergies?: What's causing your dog to itch? It's probably dog allergies. But is it food, dust mites ... or you? There are hundreds of possibilities.

Here's how to rule out some of them, and get down to the likeliest ones. Once you know what's causing the itch, you can take action to provide your dog with some much-needed relief.

Let's get down to business. Does your dog itch all year-round, or just in certain seasons? If it's seasonal, skip to that section.

There are only a few causes of year-round canine allergies:

Food. This is the first thing many people think of as causing canine allergies. But it's actually one of the least likely. True food allergies are uncommon in dogs, with only about 15% of allergic dogs being allergic to food.
Please Check out this great informative link...

WESTIE HEALTH

Some westie's can are prone to breed unique health problems

Westie seem to have some health problems that plague the breed.
The breed does have a high percentage of dogs that have problem with allergies, which lead to skin disorder's.

Skin and Allergy Problems ...: "Skin problems are usually caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment, whether it be fleas, mold, dust, pollen, grass, food or chemicals that cause the dog to itch. Itching in turn Causes the dog to scratch. Constant and continued scratching will cause a breakdown in the skin that generally leads to bacterial infection, hence the skin problem."
Westies Of America Foundation...: This is a very good site. It has loads of information on the West Highland White Breed.

"The West Highland White Terrier Club of America web site has an excellent list of virtually all of the health concerns that affect Westies, plus lots of additional information about each concern. Rather than duplicate all of the information, we are providing a link below. Please do not become concerned that Westies as a breed are plagued with a ton of health problems. Rather, a relatively small percentage of Westies do have one or more of the health concerns listed. Westies are a tough, hearty breed; they have some health concerns just like any other breed of dog. Our goal in the Westie Foundation is to minimize or eliminate as many of the health concerns affecting Westies as possible. Read more...

Traveling With Your Westie....

The carrier you see rose in is not suitable for any travel but a very short car ride... Read below for tips on just the right travel carrier, for travel by airplane.

If you own a pet at some point you might have to travel with that pet.

If the pet is to be accompanying you on an airplane, consider calling several airlines and check if you're particular pet would be perhaps allowed to ride in the passengers compartment, with you. Many airlines are letting certain dogs do just that. Small pets are allowed to sit at your feet in their carriers. Other airlines will allow you to purchase a seat for the pet carrier.

You will need a carrier for your pet. When choosing a carrier, there are a few things to consider. For safety it is recommenced to choose a carrier that your dog can just stand up in, and be able to turn around in. This size carrier promotes the dog to lie down and rest and is much safer in case of sudden unpredicted flight shift changes. That could cause the dog to be hurt if tossed into the sides of the carrier with a greater force due to it being to spacious.

If your dog has a hyperactive personality and you are concerned that the pet may be very hyperactive and upset due to travel, speak to your veterinarian in regards to possibly prescribing a mild tranquillizer for the flight. Never, attempt to medicate your animal without first having talked to its veterinarian.

It is wise to feed your dog about 3-4 hours prior to travel on an airplane. This gives the dog a better chance of not experiencing nausea or vomiting. Make sure to give the dog ampul time to void before heading to the airport, and before putting the pet in the carrier. Offer a small mount of water before putting the dog in the carrier.

Pack the food and goodies that your pet is accustom to. If you are traveling to a destination that you might have a fear of the water you will consume? Make sure you consider the water your pet will consume. Pack one of the pet's toys, and if they have a favorite blanket, I would bring it along too.

Make sure your dog is leashed at all times when going outside. Pets (especially dogs) are creatures of habit, and could become lost in a strange environment.

Have a recent picture of your pet, in the case the pet becomes lost. Have a dog tag made before leaving home. The tag should have where you are staying on your trip. Add this tag with his excising tag.

This is beneficial, just in case you have not been able to locate your pet by the time you have to return home.At some point someone may find your beloved pet, and be able to locate you, with the good news.

DOG OWNERS PLEASE READ!

A common sweetener by the name of Xylitol used in sugarless gum, and toothpaste. It can also be found in some food products naturally. Foods such as fruit, berries, mushrooms, and lettuce. If ingested even in small amounts it can lead to a serious problems. When Xylitol is ingested by dogs, it causes an increase in insulin production, which drops the dogs blood sugar dangerously low. Which can results in liver failure, and a speedy death. Symptoms of Xylitol poisoning can include; initially vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. Symptoms are rapid. If your dog ever ingests sugarless gum or toothpaste treat it as an emergency...

Please Considering Rescuing A Westie...

WESTIE RESCUE---IS THERE A WESTIE OUT THERE THAT COULD LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE?

Please consider rescuing a Westie...

Looking for your Local Westie Rescue Contact?

Westie Rescue USA...: "Welcome to Westie Rescue USA, sponsored by Westie Rescue of the MidAtlantic States, Inc.
At Westie Rescue USA, you can:
-Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions about
West Highland White Terriers
-Find your local Westie Rescue Contact
-Volunteer to help Westies in need
-Report a Westie in trouble
-Fill out an Adoption Application
-Locate Westie Gifts and Other Links
-Find Events for you and your Westie
-Donate funds to help a Westie in need"
If you are considering getting a dog--- Please consider rescuing a westie?

New Flickr Pictures

I love to know what your thinking?

Just Hanging 10...

Fancy supervising the archaeology project 2006 by westietess

I hate to Pose... Enough all-ready!

West Highland White Terriers make good moms...

westies love to play in the snow !

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ASPCA--

Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals

Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals: "Change the Fate of a Needy Animal Today

"When you sponsor one of these loving dogs or cats you will be changing more than just one life...you will be changing thousands. Every step we take to increase the number of shelter pets adopted means another dog's or cat's life will be saved."

The ASPCA Internet site offers an abundence of information. Not only on pet adoption, but on pet health and proper care. For instance---

"PET POISON PREVENTION, FROM A TO ZCheck out our mini-library of substances that are potentially poisonous to companion animals.

1. Yeast Dough
Raw or uncooked, it can expand in your pet's tummy if ingested-possibly causing obstruction or intestinal rupture.

2. Citrus Fruits
None of these sun-ripened sweets for your sweet, please. Peels, fruits and seeds can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

3. Mistletoe
Take care if decking your halls with this popular holiday plant-it can cause GI irritation, excessive thirst and, in severe cases, seizures, coma and even death."

Please read on for complete list of poisonous substances....

LOST PETS...

Have you ever lost a beloved pet? It can happen in an instant... The gate is accidentally left ajar. The kids are in and out of the house, the dog slipped out without being noticed....

What now? Visit the link below "Lost Pets." Find out what you can do to perhaps find your lost friend...

Lost Your Pet? Check out this site...

Lost Pets: This site has an abundence of information on what to do when you loss a pet.

This Lens master has searched the Internet to find as many Lost Pet websites as she could, and put this usful information all under one roof...Hopefully, one of the listed sites will assist you in finding your pet.