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West Highland White Terriers, lovingly referred to as Westies, are small however mighty canines with an abundance of persona. Regardless of their compact measurement, these pups are bursting with power and allure, making them a favourite amongst canine lovers. 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 canines that may shock you.
They Have been Bred for Searching Vermin
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Westies have 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 glorious 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 have 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 enables them to tug their weight (actually) when digging or chasing prey. Their muscular legs and dedication make them fairly the powerhouse after they set their thoughts to one thing.
Their Coat Has a Distinctive Texture
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A Westie’s coat is not like many different breeds, that includes a double-layer construction that consists of a smooth undercoat and a tough, wiry topcoat. This not solely retains them heat in chilly climates but additionally helps repel dust and water. It’s one of many causes they’ll romp round outside while not having fixed baths!
They Have a Playful and Mischievous Streak
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Westies are recognized for his or her playful and spirited nature. They love to interact in enjoyable video games and infrequently discover methods to entertain themselves, even when it means entering into just a little hassle. Their mischievous aspect could 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 a protracted 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 looking 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 looking accident. He reportedly mistook considered one of his reddish-brown canines 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 favor to do issues on their phrases. This independence could make coaching a problem but additionally provides to their allure.
They Are Surprisingly Good Watchdogs
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Regardless of their small measurement, Westies make glorious watchdogs because of their alert and protecting nature. They’re fast to bark at strangers or something uncommon, making them an amazing 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 quite a lot of canine sports activities. From agility and obedience competitions to earthdog trials, these little canines thrive when given an outlet for his or her power and intelligence. Their aggressive spirit and eagerness to please make them stars within the ring.
A Entire Lot of Canine in a Small Bundle
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Westies show that massive personalities can are available small packages. Whether or not they’re digging up the yard or snuggling by your aspect, these white-coated wonders by no means fail to make life extra fascinating. Proudly owning a Westie is an journey filled with enjoyable and surprises, and it’s unattainable to not fall in love with their spirited, mischievous allure. Should you’re fortunate sufficient to have considered one of these lovable terriers in your life, you realize simply how a lot pleasure they carry!
