Are West Highland White Terriors good family dogs?

Question

There's me, age: 14. My sister, age: 11. Mum, age: 44. Dad, age: 43.

Would it be a good dog for us all if trained properly?

We heard it can be quite Yappy and shouty.

Answer 1

Westies can make excellent family pets when purchased from a good breeder who can mentor families in the care and training of the breed.  They require regular grooming and like most terrier breeds, they carry a high prey and chase drive, which means they may not get along with the family cat without some training. They can be hard headed, but are extremely loyal to their family.

I would recommend fostering a rescue and/or spending time with the breed for awhile before commiting yourself to a long term obligation to a breed you aren't familiar with. Fostering allows you to gain first hand knowledge of the breed while helping out. Good luck to you!

Answer 2

Omg yes!! You should totally Adopt one. I'm probably adopting a West/american eskimo mix named Chase!! They re great dogs.

Answer 3

My friends own a Westie that is now like 11 years old. He's very friendly, and good with people of all ages. I can't say how he was when he was younger though, but typically they seem to be nice overall dogs.

Answer 4

They can be.  The whole family would have to be on board for the best results though.  Early socialization and doing your homework finding a responsible breeder.  Lots of skin problems and allergies in this breed.  They can be diggers, yappers (if not socialized); they are also known as the little white dogs who want to be black.  A charming trait for some who don't mind giving baths.

When they are bred responsibly and trained properly they are awesome!

Answer 5

Great Family Dogs.

My family had a Westie (Popcorn), we got him when I was around 4-5 and he passed away the week before I left for college.

As far as barking goes, he would only really bark if someone came to the door or if there was a squirrel in the backyard. Other than that he was pretty quiet. But it's just in their nature as watchdogs.

A westie would be a great choice for your family.