-
Activity Level:
high
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Shedding Level:
moderate
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Grooming Level:
moderate
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Trainability:
moderate
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Good for Novice Owners:
moderate
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Adaptability:
high
-
Kid/Pet Friendly:
sometimes
-
Prey Drive:
high
-
Watchdog:
very alert
- Average Size: Small
- Average Lifespan: 12-16 years
Westie Mix Dog Breed Information
Overview
Temperament
Adaptability
Health
Owner Experience
Grooming
Activity Level
Size
Life Span
Westie Mixes are not purebred dogs and are considered a mixed breed. They will be a cross between a West Highland Terrier and another dog breed. When determining whether this dog is right for you, find out the parent breeds and research them individually. Then, compare characteristics to make sure this is the dog for you. You may end up with one breed’s characteristics showing more than the other or a true mix of both.
These pups are busybodies, but aren’t overly affectionate. They’re happy running after squirrels and rabbits or barking at a cat up a tree. This is an active dog breed that requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation to remain happy and healthy. Otherwise, they can become hard-headed and destructive. Because they are intelligent and determined, they are prone to barking and can become stubborn if not trained properly.
Westie Mix puppies are tolerant with children, but should be supervised just in case horseplay goes too far. They are loving and playful dogs that can keep up with energetic children, but once they have crashed, Westie Mixes need plenty of space to recharge and relax.
The Westie Mix can live in apartments or small homes, but will need some space to run around and blow off steam. They also crave human attention. If left alone and to their own devices, these pups can become destructive. If you decide to adopt a Westie Mix, make sure you and your loved ones will have plenty of time to spend with them. Perhaps even check if you can bring your pup to work if necessary. Your home, and your shoes, will thank you for it.
Since it is a mixed breed, the Westie Mix is often relatively healthy since they have a larger gene pool. They do, however, need regular vet visits to stay healthy. You should be aware of possible ailments such as hip problems, chronic hernias, knee problems, and aggression. By keeping these in mind, you will help your Westie Mix be happier and healthier.
This dog breed is somewhat difficult to train. If you decide to add a Westie Mix to your family, you will want to use reward training and positive reinforcement. Then, even if you have some experience training dogs, you will want to work with a trainer. They will help you gain confidence and teach your pup to understand what is expected of them.
Westie Mixes do not shed much and are wonderful for people that have mild allergies. You should brush them every other day, and have them professionally groomed twice a year. You should also check their ears weekly and trim their nails monthly. This can help prevent ear infections and keep their nails from getting too long.
As a small dog breed, the Westie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Good dental care for dogs, like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, can help keep your Westie Mix’s mouth healthy.
This dog breed is fairly active and will need to be walked for at least an hour every day. You should also take them for a run, or to the dog park, every other day and then a hike or a bike ride once a month. Although they will be thrilled with the activity, they may need a break. Bring plenty of water and a puppy backpack they can comfortably fit in just in case you have to carry them.
A Westie Mix will usually stand 9 to 20 inches tall and weighs 30 to 40 pounds.
Westie Mixes generally live 12 to 16 years.