Smooth Fox Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • West Highland White Terrier is the larger breed at 15–20 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
  • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The West Highland White Terrier sheds less.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitSmooth Fox TerrierWest Highland White Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
15"11"
Height (female)
15"10"
Weight (male)
17–19 lbs15–20 lbs
Weight (female)
15–17 lbs15–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)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
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.

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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Smooth Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness

West Highland White Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Skin allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Liver disease