Scottish Terriers (Scotties) and West Highland White Terriers (Westies) are two of the most popular terrier breeds, known for their charming personalities, distinctive looks, and loyal nature.
While both breeds originate from Scotland and share some similar traits, they have key differences that potential pet owners should understand before making a decision.
In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between the Scottish Terrier vs Westie, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your home and lifestyle.
1. Origin and History
Scottish Terrier History
The Scottish Terrier, also known as the “Scottie,” is one of the oldest and most recognizable dog breeds in Scotland.
They were originally bred to hunt small game like foxes and badgers.
Their wiry coat and strong build made them well-suited for working in harsh weather conditions.
The Scottie gained worldwide recognition when President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottie, Fala, became a White House icon.
Westie History
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, also hails from Scotland.
They were bred from the same ancestral line as the Scottish Terrier but were specifically developed to have a white coat to distinguish them from other dark-colored hunting dogs.
Westies were also used to hunt vermin and small prey, and their cheerful demeanor quickly made them a popular companion dog.
2. Appearance and Physical Traits
Scottish Terrier Appearance
- Size: 10 inches tall, weighing 18–22 pounds
- Coat: Dense, wiry, and weather-resistant
- Color: Black, brindle, or wheaten
- Facial Features: Distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows
- Build: Compact and muscular with a low, confident stance
Westie Appearance
- Size: 10–11 inches tall, weighing 15–20 pounds
- Coat: Double-layered, with a soft undercoat and coarse outer coat
- Color: Always white
- Facial Features: Round face with dark eyes and a black nose
- Build: Sturdy and slightly more refined than the Scottie
3. Temperament and Personality
Scottish Terrier Personality
Scotties are known for their independent, loyal, and sometimes stubborn nature. They are highly intelligent and form strong bonds with their families but tend to be reserved around strangers. Scotties have a strong prey drive, so they may not get along well with small pets.
Key Traits of a Scottish Terrier:
✅ Loyal and protective
✅ Independent thinker
✅ May be aloof with strangers
✅ Can be territorial
Westie Personality
Westies are cheerful, friendly, and more outgoing than Scotties.
They are social dogs who enjoy being around people and other animals. While they have a prey drive, they tend to be more adaptable and less aggressive than Scotties.
Key Traits of a Westie:
✅ Friendly and affectionate
✅ Adaptable to different environments
✅ Less territorial than a Scottie
✅ High energy and playful
4. Training and Intelligence
Training a Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are intelligent but can be stubborn, which makes training a bit of a challenge. They respond best to positive reinforcement and short, consistent training sessions. Due to their strong-willed nature, early socialization is important to prevent territorial behavior.
Training Tips for a Scottie:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques
- Keep training sessions short and varied
- Start socialization early to avoid aggressive behavior
Training a Westie
Westies are also intelligent but are more eager to please than Scotties, which makes them slightly easier to train. They respond well to rewards-based training and are generally more social with other dogs and people.
Training Tips for a Westie:
- Be consistent and patient
- Use treats and praise as motivation
- Introduce new experiences gradually
5. Exercise and Activity Levels
Scottish Terrier Exercise Needs
Scotties have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks and interactive play but are generally content with a moderate amount of activity. Scotties have a strong prey drive, so off-leash exercise should be done in a secure area.
Recommended Activities for a Scottie:
- Daily walks (20–30 minutes)
- Interactive toys and puzzle games
- Secure fenced yard for off-leash play
Westie Exercise Needs
Westies have higher energy levels than Scotties and require more physical and mental stimulation. They thrive in active households and enjoy games like fetch and agility training.
Recommended Activities for a Westie:
- Daily walks (30–45 minutes)
- Off-leash playtime in a secure yard
- Agility training and interactive play
6. Grooming and Maintenance
Scottish Terrier Grooming
Scotties have a dense, wiry coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking neat. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended, along with weekly brushing to prevent matting.
Grooming Requirements:
- Weekly brushing
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
- Nail trimming and ear cleaning as needed
Westie Grooming
Westies also require regular grooming, but their white coat tends to show dirt more easily. Brushing several times a week and occasional professional grooming will keep their coat in top condition.
Grooming Requirements:
- Brush 2–3 times per week
- Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks
- Keep their white coat clean with regular baths
7. Health and Lifespan
Scottish Terrier Health Issues
Scotties are prone to specific health conditions, including:
- Scottie Cramp (a neurological condition)
- Bladder cancer
- Von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder)
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Westie Health Issues
Westies are generally healthy but can develop:
- Skin allergies
- Luxating patella (knee joint issues)
- Addison’s disease (hormonal imbalance)
Lifespan: 12–16 years
8. Which Breed is Right for You?
✅ Choose a Scottish Terrier if:
- You prefer a loyal and protective dog
- You have experience handling independent breeds
- You want a moderate-energy dog with a confident personality
✅ Choose a Westie if:
- You want a friendly and outgoing dog
- You have an active lifestyle and enjoy playtime
- You want a dog that is more adaptable to different environments
Conclusion
Both the Scottish Terrier and West Highland White Terrier are wonderful companions, but they have distinct personalities and care requirements. The Scottish Terrier is more independent and protective, while the Westie is friendlier and more adaptable. By understanding their differences and needs, you can make an informed decision about which terrier is the best fit for your lifestyle.
Are you thinking of getting a Scottie or a Westie? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Pet trainer with a passion for helping animals and owners build strong, loving bonds through positive reinforcement and expert care.
