West Highland White Terrier, also known as Westie, is probably one of the most recognized dog breeds worldwide. They are small and cute, but wait till you see them in action. Picture Bennie, a West Highland White Terrier from down the street, charging fearlessly towards a pack of pigeons, his white fur contrasting beautifully against the urban sprawl. Bennie, similar to other Westies, is remarkably agile and energetic, making it a wonderful sight when they are on the move.
You may be slumping in your chair right now pondering, “But wait, I thought this breed was calm?”
Well, let’s dive into the heart of the matter, shall we?
The true essence of a West Highland White Terrier goes beyond its fluffy white coat and piercing stare. The breed finds its origins in Scotland and was initially bred for hunting badgers and other ground-dwelling critters. This means Westies come from a lineage of hard-workers, bred for their tenacity, courage and zest.
Simply put, a Westie isn’t really what you would call a “lounge-all-day” kind of dog. Don’t be surprised to find them continuously on the hunt for something fun or adventurous. But, one thing’s for sure, there’s never a dull moment when a Westie is around!
If you’re concerned about getting a new pet and whether a Westie might cause a ruckus, fear not! Just because they are active doesn’t equate to them being unmanageable or disruptive.
The great news is, Westies are highly trainable. In fact, with the right training, they can be pretty calm in various situations, such as when there are visitors in the house or when they stay indoors. They may not be the epitome of serenity like some other breeds, but with proper training and mental stimulation, they can certainly be kept from getting overexcited or restless.
However, before you rush out to buy the first Westie you see, note that they can also be quite independent and even stubborn at times. This requires you to be persistent and consistent with the training. They thrive best under the leadership of an owner who is firm and steady, yet loving and understanding.
Keep in mind that Westies are intelligent creatures, and they possess a drive to please their owners. Keep the tasks challenging, and they can learn a lot, including how to stay calm even in stimulating environments.
A helpful tip to keep your Westie calm is to give them plenty of physical and mental exercises. Regular walks, playtimes, and puzzle toys can keep them from developing unwanted behaviors due to boredom or restlessness.
Remember, every dog is a product of both its genetic predisposition and the environment in which it grows. A calm environment fosters a calm dog. That being said, if you are looking for a couch potato dog, then a Westie might not be the ideal choice for you. But, if you are in search of a lively, friendly, and spirited companion who also knows when to chill, a West Highland White Terrie might be just the dog for you.
In conclusion, the Westie might not be a Zen master of dog breeds, but it can certainly be calm when well-trained and properly stimulated. The question of whether a West Highland White Terrier is a calm dog depends a lot on how you understand and perceive the term “calm”. They are active, lively, loving, and certainly full of personality. If that’s your definition of calm, then yes, a Westie is a calm dog.
P.S.: Westies are incredibly charming and full of character, they might just make your heart do a happy flip, every single time you see them!
So, are you ready to welcome a West Highland White Terrier into your heart and home? If you are, make sure to remember their need for active engagement, be patient with their learning curve, and enjoy every moment of their lively presence.
After all, these little furry companions truly are, the spice of life.
