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West Highland White Terriers, lovingly referred to as Westies, are small however mighty canine with an abundance of persona. Regardless of their compact measurement, these pups are bursting with vitality and allure, making them a favourite amongst canine fanatics. However there’s a lot extra to Westies than meets the attention! From their fascinating historical past to their cute quirks, listed below are 9 enjoyable details about these pleasant canine which may shock you.
They Have been Bred for Searching Vermin
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Westies have been initially bred in Scotland to hunt and management the inhabitants of rats, foxes, and different small pests. Their robust prey drive, coupled with their compact measurement, made them wonderful at burrowing into the bottom to flush out vermin. Their all-white coat was essential too—it helped hunters simply distinguish them from the animals they have been pursuing.
They Are Surprisingly Sturdy for Their Measurement
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Don’t be fooled by their small body! Westies are extremely robust and have a sturdy construct that enables them to drag their weight (actually) when digging or chasing prey. Their muscular legs and willpower make them fairly the powerhouse once they set their thoughts to one thing.
Their Coat Has a Distinctive Texture
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A Westie’s coat is not like many different breeds, that includes a double-layer construction that consists of a smooth undercoat and a tough, wiry topcoat. This not solely retains them heat in chilly climates but additionally helps repel dust and water. It’s one of many causes they will romp round outside without having fixed baths!
They Have a Playful and Mischievous Streak
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Westies are identified for his or her playful and spirited nature. They love to interact in enjoyable video games and sometimes discover methods to entertain themselves, even when it means moving into somewhat hassle. Their mischievous facet could be charming however requires constant coaching to maintain them from turning into too cheeky.
They Are One of many Oldest Terrier Breeds
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The West Highland White Terrier has an extended historical past, relationship again to the 1700s. Their ancestors embody the Cairn Terrier and different Scottish terriers, making them one of many oldest acknowledged terrier breeds. Their improvement is intently tied to Scottish landowners who wanted efficient and dependable looking companions.
Their Signature White Coat Was a Deliberate Selection
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The story goes that Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch, one of many Westie’s early breeders, determined solely to breed white terriers after a tragic looking accident. He reportedly mistook considered one of his reddish-brown canine for a fox. From that day on, he vowed solely to maintain and breed white-coated terriers to forestall future mishaps.
Westies Have a Sturdy Sense of Independence
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West Highland White Terriers have a well-developed impartial streak, a trait they inherited from their working days as hunters. Whereas they’re affectionate and dependable, in addition they have a thoughts of their very own and generally choose to do issues on their phrases. This independence could make coaching a problem but additionally provides to their allure.
They Are Surprisingly Good Watchdogs
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Regardless of their small measurement, Westies make wonderful watchdogs due to their alert and protecting nature. They’re fast to bark at strangers or something uncommon, making them a terrific early warning system. Their confidence and bravado guarantee they by no means again down from sounding the alarm when needed.
They Excel in Canine Sports activities
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Westies should not simply cute companions; they’re additionally agile and excel in quite a lot of canine sports activities. From agility and obedience competitions to earthdog trials, these little canine thrive when given an outlet for his or her vitality and intelligence. Their aggressive spirit and eagerness to please make them stars within the ring.
A Complete Lot of Canine in a Small Package deal
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Westies show that massive personalities can are available in small packages. Whether or not they’re digging up the yard or snuggling by your facet, these white-coated wonders by no means fail to make life extra attention-grabbing. Proudly owning a Westie is an journey stuffed with enjoyable and surprises, and it’s not possible to not fall in love with their spirited, mischievous allure. Should you’re fortunate sufficient to have considered one of these lovable terriers in your life, simply how a lot pleasure they carry!
