Scottish Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier
Compare two breeds
Pick two breeds to see them compared side by side.
Scottish Terrier
In the Scottish Highlands this breed was bred to hunt fox, badger and other burrowing game, its low, sturdy build suited to squeezing into narrow dens. The long eyebrows and beard aren't just for looks, they protected the eyes and muzzle from a cornered animal's teeth. The frame is compact, up to 10.4 kilograms, but carries unusually heavy bone for its size. The wiry coat needs regular hand-stripping. It's known as one of the more stubborn terriers, independent enough that standard obedience work takes real patience. Loyal to its family, reserved with strangers. Life expectancy runs 12 to 15 years.
West Highland White Terrier
In Scotland this breed shares ancestry with the Cairn Terrier, but the white coat was deliberately selected so hunters wouldn't mistake the dog for a fox in the field and shoot it by accident. The frame is compact, up to 10 kilograms, sturdy and muscular for its size. The wiry, dense coat needs periodic hand-stripping rather than clipping to keep its texture. The temperament is spirited, bold and occasionally stubborn, a holdover from working underground against badger and fox. It hit peak popularity in the 20th century after becoming the face of a well known whisky brand. Playful and friendly with family. Life expectancy runs 13 to 15 years.
At a glance
| Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Height (male) | 25.0–28.0 cm | 28.0–28.0 cm |
| Weight (male) | 8.6–10.4 kg | 7.0–10.0 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 yrs | 13–15 yrs |
| Coat | harsh, wiry | harsh, straight |
Temperament & Family Life
| Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Family friendly | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Trainability |
Exercise, Energy & Space
| Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | ||
| Exercise need | ||
| Apartment friendly | ||
| Prey drive | ||
| Hunting instinct |
Guarding & Alertness
| Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Guarding instinct | ||
| Watchfulness | ||
| Barking level |
Grooming & Care
| Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | ||
| Drooling | ||
| Grooming need |
Temperament and care scores (1-5) are a general guide based on the breed standard — every individual dog is different.