West Highland White Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy
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
Yorkshire TerrierToy
A feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Quick take
- • West Highland White Terrier is the larger breed at 15–20 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
- • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.
- • The Yorkshire Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | West Highland White Terrier | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Toy |
Size | Small | Toy |
Origin | Scotland | England |
Height (male) | 11" | 7–8" |
Height (female) | 10" | 7–8" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–15 years | 11–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
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. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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.
About the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.
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West Highland White Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Skin allergies
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Liver disease
Yorkshire Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Tracheal collapse
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental disease