Show an uninformed dog lover a photo of a Westie, and they'd identify a Westie as a white Scottie. This mistake is perfectly understandable, since they do have similar physical attributes and both originated from Scotland.
There are a lot of postulated theories about these similarities. However, one valid assumption is that centuries ago, a generic terrier was once a native to Scotland.
Over the years, different breeds came about from interbreeding, locations, the conditions and human requirements, which resulted in the different breeds. So when you compare the modern Westie to its' two closest relatives, the Scottie and the Cairn, you'll see more similarities than differences.
Here are just some of the differences between a Scottie & Westie.
A Westie is usually between 12-15 inches tall terrier with a straight and erect tail, about 5 ? 6 inches. This breed has a two inch white double coat, while the outer coat is hard straight hair the under coat is soft.
They possess a black button nose and pointed erect ears. Their deep chests and muscular limbs give the westies the agility and power that was required in the original line of work for their breed. They were originally developed to hunt for vermin in the mountains of West Scotland.
The shorter Scottish Terrier is about at 10-11 inches tall. The coat of a typical Scottie is hard, wiry, weather-resistant and a thick-set, cobby body which is hung between short, heavy legs. Unlike the westie, they come in different colors; black, brown and bindle.
Another difference is that their noses are larger compared to the westie, although sometimes, you'll come across a Scottie that has a button like nose. The Scottie's ears and tail are pointy and erect.
How does the American Kennel Club (AKC) describe the standard gait of both breeds? The Westie's movement is free, straight and easy, and it's a distinctive gait, not stilted, but powerful, with reach and drive. Their overall ability to move is usually best evaluated from the side, and topline remains level.
The gait of the Scottish Terrier isn't the square trot or walk desirable in the long-legged breeds. Their forelegs incline slightly inward because of the deep broad forechest. Movement should be free, agile and coordinated with a powerful drive from the rear and good reach in front. When the dog is in motion, the back should remain firm and level.
You won't make a mistake of choosing a pet from either breed, for they are popular not only for their looks but also because they're loving, intelligent, affectionate and loyal dogs.
(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)
I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.
Good health and happiness
Jeff Cuckson
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
Want To Know How To Have The Healthiest,
Happiest and Most Well Behaved Westie You
Have Ever Dreamed Of! Then Visit NOW!
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
Many people don't realize that their dogs, just like human... Read More
None of us likes to be bitten by mosquitoes and... Read More
Many people feel that taking the time to train their... Read More
Cute cat names? Max is popular, Lady a favorite for... Read More
The Discus fish has its habitat in the South American... Read More
I am a happy owner of two rat terriers. They... Read More
What should you feed your cat to make sure he... Read More
There are a number of reasons for choosing natural pet... Read More
Of course, we humans use shoes to protect our feet.... Read More
Distemper: Spotting This Dog Killer Before it's Too LateCanine distemper... Read More
Every day, people by the millions pour food from a... Read More
For the first 8,000 years of their relationship with humans,... Read More
Dogs make great loyal pets and are always pleased to... Read More
Just like children, westie puppies learn through play. Playing games... Read More
When we talk about hypoallergenic dogs, we mean that they... Read More
The 6 Keys To Building A Life Long Partnership With... Read More
Are you just starting to research the BARF diet for... Read More
You've seen them in movies and on TV shows, and... Read More
So you're bringing home that cute little puppy from the... Read More
Arthritis refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint. The... Read More
"Where's the harm? My cat seems to enjoy chocolate and... Read More
Are you concerned when your dog or cat eats grass,... Read More
As there are certain health issues that affect only the... Read More
When I had a Toy Poodle, I used a small... Read More
If you are looking for tips on breeding tropical fish,... Read More
move out cleaning service Glenview ..Parrots are becoming more popular as pets with each passing... Read More
I'm sure you're aware of the bad reputation Pitbulls have.... Read More
Well first of all I was always a cat owner,... Read More
Imagine that you are scolding your cat for scratching at... Read More
The most important thing to remember in analyzing the behavior... Read More
Breeding tropical fish can be a lot of fun. Try... Read More
Dogs make great loyal pets and are always pleased to... Read More
Many dog owners find themselves frustrated, deeply concerned and even... Read More
Are you concerned when your dog or cat eats grass,... Read More
Selecting a Kitten It is best to choose your... Read More
Most parrot people are aware of some of the basic... Read More
A few years ago, before I decided to stay home... Read More
An easier and more pleasant journey with your chosen Boxer... Read More
My dear owner,Thank you once again for giving me shelter.... Read More
There seems to be an alarming trend to have cats... Read More
For the first 8,000 years of their relationship with humans,... Read More
Owning a dog is a serious responsibility, one that should... Read More
Your new living room furniture is in tatters. Your nerves... Read More
Almost without exception, breeders will advertise that their favorite terrier,... Read More
Westies dogs' owners delight in the companionship their dogs give... Read More
Mistake #7 ? Assuming You Can Get On Any Horse... Read More
In part one we talked about forming good behavior traits... Read More
What is Canine Infectious Hepatitis?The word hepatitis refers to an... Read More
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten... Read More
When you take into account that there are over 68,000,000... Read More
Pet |