Once upon a time, there lived a little dog with a big amount of energy, gallant attitude, and snowy-white coat – The West Highland White Terrier, or “Westie” for short. Now, you might be wondering, could this gorgeous and adventurous furball be a dangerous dog? The answer might surprise you!
So, let’s start with first things first. What makes a dog dangerous? As per experts, a dog’s dangerousness can be influenced by its size, temperament, training, and upbringing. Now how does our little Westie fare in these departments? Let’s find out!
West Highland White Terriers weigh in at a puny 15-22 lbs and stand tall at about 11 inches at the shoulder. However, don’t be fooled by their size. These robust terriers have a larger-than-life personality and a fearless spirit to match. Once upon a time, they were employed to hunt rats and other small game in the rocky highlands of Scotland. This historical role gave them a dash of courage, tenacity, and the toughness to confront other critters. But does this background make them dangerous dogs? Well, the answer largely depends on your definition of dangerous.
For example, if you’re a fan of quiet afternoons, a Westie might indeed pose a ‘danger’ to your tranquillity. Known for their lively nature, Westies love to bark, chase, and play, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase, ‘it’s a dog’s life.’ And if there’s one thing they love more than chasing squirrels, it’s digging in the garden. If you’re particularly fond of your tulips, then the vigorous digging practices of your Westie might be deemed a plant-zapping ‘danger.’
However, when we talk about a potential danger in terms of aggression, Westies are generally not considered dangerous dogs. Unlike some other breeds, they were not specifically bred for guard or fighting duties. They are known for their perky and friendly personality.
But it is important to understand that any dog, irrespective of its breed, can exhibit aggression if not properly socialized or if mistreated. Therefore, the most crucial factor in whether a Westie – or any dog – is dangerous or not comes down to their upbringing.
This is where you, as a prospective West Highland White Terrier’s owner, play a key role. If you’re planning on bringing a Westie into your home, here are a few pointers to ensure your little companion grows into a well-behaved adult:
Raise Them Right: Begin training and socialization at an early age. Westies are known to have a stubborn streak. However, providing consistent training from an early age can help counter any signs of aggression.
Give Them Space: To accommodate their high energy levels, you should provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise in the form of walks, games, or playtime can help to keep them happy and well-adjusted.
Show Them Love: Like any dog, Westies crave affection and social interaction. Spending quality time together and creating a loving environment can vastly improve their overall behavior.
Keep Professional Advice Handy: Prompt consultations with a professional dog trainer or a vet for any behavioral changes can make your journey smoother.
In conclusion, the likelihood of your West Highland White Terrier turning out to be a dangerous dog largely depends on how they are raised, trained, and treated.
Remember, every dog is an individual. Labeling a dog “dangerous” based on breed alone can often be misleading. With the right care and upbringing, a Westie can make a wonderful, loving, and certainly exciting addition to any dog-loving household. So, if you have been thinking about bringing a tiny chunk of Scottish heritage home, there’s nothing ‘dangerous’ lurking in the snowy coat of a West Highland White Terrier. Just a vivacious, loving, and adorable little soul ready to fill your home with joy!
