What is the difference between a Scottish Terrier and a West Highland White Terrier?

The Scottish Terrier is 19–22 lbs, 10–11 in sized while the West Highland White Terrier is 15–20 lbs, 10–11 in sized. They differ in size (19–22 lbs, 10–11 in vs 15–20 lbs, 10–11 in), lifespan (12 years vs 13–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Scottish Terrier or West Highland White Terrier?

Scottish Terrier is not typically good with kids. West Highland White Terrier is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Scottish Terrier or West Highland White Terrier?

The Scottish Terrier has a lifespan of 12 years while the West Highland White Terrier has a lifespan of 13–15 years.

Scottish Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier — Breed Comparison

About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier — often called the "Scottie" — is one of Scotland's oldest terrier breeds, developed in the Aberdeen area during the 18th and 19th centuries to hunt foxes, badgers, and rats underground. These compact, powerful dogs stand about 10 inches tall and weigh 18 to 22 pounds, with a low center of gravity and surprisingly heavy bone for their size. Their harsh, wiry outer coat and soft, dense undercoat come in black, wheaten, or brindle, and the breed's distinctive profile — long head, erect ears, and bushy eyebrows — is among the most recognizable in dogdom.

Temperament & Personality

Scottish Terriers are independent, dignified, and fiercely loyal to their people — often described as having an "old soul" quality uncommon in the terrier group. They tend to bond most deeply with one or two people and can be reserved or aloof with strangers, making them natural watchdogs. Scotties can be assertive with other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and their strong prey drive means small animals are rarely safe in their presence.

Pros

Compact and sturdy — well-suited for apartment living with regular exercise
Low-shedding wiry coat when properly maintained through hand-stripping
Loyal, devoted companion with a dignified, independent character
Excellent watchdog — alert and naturally suspicious of strangers

Cons

Stubbornly independent — training requires patience and creative motivation
Prone to von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), Scottie cramp, and bladder cancer
Can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially unfamiliar ones
Requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks

The Scottish Terrier's unwavering loyalty and distinctive charm are one of a kind — find your Scottie on Puplister.

About the West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier — universally known as the "Westie" — was developed in Scotland's western highlands during the 19th century, selectively bred from Cairn Terrier stock for its white coat to be more visible against the dark highland terrain while hunting foxes, badgers, and rats. These sturdy little dogs stand 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh 15 to 20 pounds, with a compact, balanced build and surprisingly strong legs for their size. Their double coat features a hard, straight white outer layer and a soft, dense undercoat — always pure white without exception.

Temperament & Personality

Westies are confident, entertaining, and surprisingly tough — carrying the classic terrier self-assurance in a friendly, less aggressive package than many of their terrier relatives. They are affectionate with their families, generally good with older children, and possess an independent, adventurous spirit that keeps life interesting. Westies are social dogs that enjoy meeting people, though they can be assertive with other dogs and retain a strong instinct to chase anything that moves.

Pros

Sturdy and adaptable — thrives in apartments, suburbs, and country settings
Friendly and sociable without the extreme aggression of some terrier breeds
Portable size with a big, confident personality
Alert watchdog that will reliably announce visitors

Cons

Prone to atopic dermatitis and skin allergies — one of the most affected breeds
Coat requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks
Can be stubborn and willful during training — responds best to positive methods
Tendency to dig and bark, especially when bored or left in the yard

Westies bring Scottish charm and terrier spirit into every home — find your white-coated companion on Puplister.

Scottish Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier