Scottish Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small
Scottish TerrierSmall
An independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'.
Weight: 19–22 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
West Highland White TerrierSmall
A loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • Scottish Terrier is the larger breed at 19–22 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the West Highland White Terrier.
- • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The West Highland White Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Scottish Terrier | West Highland White Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Scotland | Scotland |
Height (male) | 10" | 11" |
Height (female) | 10" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 19–22 lbs | 15–20 lbs |
Weight (female) | 18–21 lbs | 15–20 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 13–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.
About the West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.
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Scottish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Scotty cramp
- • Von Willebrand's disease
- • Bladder cancer
West Highland White Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Skin allergies
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Liver disease