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West Highland White Terriers, lovingly referred to as Westies, are small however mighty canine with an abundance of character. Regardless of their compact measurement, these pups are bursting with vitality and attraction, making them a favourite amongst canine fans. However there’s a lot extra to Westies than meets the attention! From their fascinating historical past to their lovely quirks, listed here are 9 enjoyable info about these pleasant canine that may shock you.
They Have been Bred for Looking Vermin
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Westies had been initially bred in Scotland to hunt and management the inhabitants of rats, foxes, and different small pests. Their sturdy 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 had been pursuing.
They Are Surprisingly Sturdy for Their Measurement
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Don’t be fooled by their small body! Westies are extremely sturdy and have a sturdy construct that permits them to tug their weight (actually) when digging or chasing prey. Their muscular legs and dedication 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 in contrast to many different breeds, that includes a double-layer construction that consists of a delicate undercoat and a tough, wiry topcoat. This not solely retains them heat in chilly climates but additionally helps repel grime and water. It’s one of many causes they’ll romp round outdoor while not 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 have interaction in enjoyable video games and sometimes discover methods to entertain themselves, even when it means moving into somewhat bother. Their mischievous facet will 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 embrace the Cairn Terrier and different Scottish terriers, making them one of many oldest acknowledged terrier breeds. Their growth is carefully tied to Scottish landowners who wanted efficient and constant searching companions.
Their Signature White Coat Was a Deliberate Alternative
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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 searching accident. He reportedly mistook one in every 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 constant, in addition they have a thoughts of their very own and typically want to do issues on their phrases. This independence could make coaching a problem but additionally provides to their attraction.
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 an important early warning system. Their confidence and bravado guarantee they by no means again down from sounding the alarm when crucial.
They Excel in Canine Sports activities
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Westies aren’t simply lovely companions; they’re additionally agile and excel in a wide range 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 Bundle
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Westies show that huge personalities can are available 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 unimaginable to not fall in love with their spirited, mischievous attraction. If you happen to’re fortunate sufficient to have one in every of these lovable terriers in your life, you already know simply how a lot pleasure they create!
