Temperament and care ratings
The American Kennel Club rates every breed from 1 to 5 on the traits below. They describe how the breed tends to be, not a promise about one dog.
Coat: Double coat, medium.
A West Highland White Terrier suits
- A family with young children (rated 5 of 5 with kids)
- A home that changes often, or apartment life (adaptability 4 of 5)
- Runners, hikers and active households (energy 4 of 5)
- Anyone who wants a natural watchdog (protective nature 5 of 5)
Think twice if
- You can't offer daily training or puzzle games (mental stimulation needs 4 of 5)
- You share walls with neighbors: barking is 5 of 5
What the ratings mean day to day
An energy score of 4 and mental stimulation needs of 4 mean plenty of daily exercise plus training games or puzzle feeders. With barking at 5 of 5 and a watchdog score of 5, expect a vocal dog that announces visitors. Grooming at 3 of 5 means weekly brushing.
Popularity
In 2020 it ranked 44.
Breeds with a similar profile
Closest matches across all 14 trait ratings:
Compare: West Highland White Terrier vs Samoyed · West Highland White Terrier vs Norwich Terrier · West Highland White Terrier vs Norfolk Terrier
Frequently asked questions
Are West Highland White Terriers good with kids?
The AKC rates the West Highland White Terrier 5 out of 5 for being good with young children. That is the top score.
Do West Highland White Terriers shed a lot?
Shedding is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate), and coat grooming 3 out of 5.
Are West Highland White Terriers easy to train?
Trainability is rated 3 out of 5 and mental stimulation needs 4 out of 5.
How much energy does a West Highland White Terrier have?
Energy is rated 4 out of 5 and playfulness 5 out of 5.
Ratings: American Kennel Club breed pages, compiled February 2022 (AKC West Highland White Terrier page). 2025 ranking: AKC, published August 2026. How we check.