The West Highland White Terrier
Westies
are descended from Cairn Terriers, who occasionally whelped white
puppies naturally, and Scottish Terriers; who also occasionally produced
white offspring. White offspring from other British Terriers such
as the Bedlington Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier were occasionally
introduced to the bloodline for desired characteristics, but this
practice generally stopped in the 1850s.
Some
sources credit Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm and his kin of Poltalloch,
in the Argyll region of western Scotland as an originator of this
breed in the 1800s. Other sources credit the 8th Duke of Argyll (Chieftain
of Clan Campbell) as an originator of the breed. However, there may
have been some cooperation between the two gentlemen. It may have
taken as long as a hundred years of selective breeding to produce
all the desired qualities. Their white coat made them highly visible
when hunting on the Scottish moors and easily distinguished them from
their game (this was an extremely important factor because hunters
sometimes mistook brown dogs for foxes, and shot them). They also
possess a sturdy frame.
Originally
the breed was known as the Poltalloch Terrier (after the name of Malcolm's
home); they were also known as the Roseneath Terrier (after the name
of Argyll's home; see Rosneath), White Roseneath Terrier, and at the
end of the 19th century, briefly as a white variety of the Scottish
Terrier.
Westies
are prone to allergies and dry skin issues, and bathing too frequently
may aggravate these problems. Washing once a month or on a longer
interval will generally not cause issues. However, frequent brushings
are needed to keep the coat clean and oils evenly distributed throughout
the coat. Washing with a detergent-free, baby-oriented, or another
soft skin shampoo will help keep a Westie's skin hydrated. Weekly
washing of the inside of the ears with cotton balls will prevent oil
and wax build-up and ear infections..
Breed Clubs and Societies
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