The WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER (WESTIE) is a Scot to its core, but with more than the typical Scotsman's sense of humor. This fabulous little dog has the same ancestors as the Scottie, the Cairn, and the Dandie Dinmont Terriers. A certain Colonel Malcom of Poltalloch, Scotland, decided around the middle of the nineteenth century to breed all-white dogs after he had accidentally shot a favorite reddish brown dog of his, mistaking it for a rabbit. By now, the Westie has left its hunting past behind, and has become a fashionable companion dog. And no wonder; a real Westie is a cheerful little fellow, courageous in true terrier style, persistent, never shy or timid, ready to join in any foolish enterprise, and not daunted by any new situation. It loves games and toys, rewards, travel and its master's undivided attention. It has a great deal of personality and is very sure of itself, and therefore has no need to be aggressive, the way many of its fellow terriers tend to be. Its responses are clear and emphatic, but it never snarls or snaps.

Anyone wanting to buy a Westie should carefully check out the breeder. Many dog breeders have, in the past, raised the West Highland White Terrier with the primary motive of making a lot of money, and by now there are a lot of Westies of poor quality around. That is why you should try hard to find a Westie without the flaws resulting from careless breeding. Keep in mind, too, that you will be responsible for the dog for at least 14 or 15 years, so taking plenty of time to choose is well worth your while.