North vs. Westies

Attribute	North	Westies
Location	Direction	Direction
Climate	Cold	Cold
Personality	Friendly	Friendly
Size	Medium	Small
Origin	North	West

Physical Characteristics

North Highland White Terriers, also known as Westies, are small, sturdy dogs with a distinctive white coat. They have a compact body, deep chest, and a double coat that is straight and wiry. Their ears are small and erect, and their tail is carried high. Westies have a keen expression and a confident demeanor. In contrast, West Highland White Terriers are slightly larger than Northies, with a broader head and a more muscular build. They also have a double coat, but it is softer and longer than that of Northies. Westies have a more rounded skull and larger ears that are set farther apart.

Temperament

North Highland White Terriers are known for their lively and outgoing personalities. They are friendly, affectionate, and playful dogs that enjoy being the center of attention. Northies are also intelligent and independent, which can make training a bit challenging at times. On the other hand, West Highland White Terriers are confident and self-assured dogs that are known for their bold and spirited nature. They are also affectionate and loyal companions, but they can be a bit more reserved with strangers. Westies are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.

Exercise Needs

Both North and West Highland White Terriers are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Northies enjoy playing games and going for walks, but they also have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals if given the chance. It is important to provide Northies with plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Similarly, West Highland White Terriers need daily exercise to burn off their energy and prevent obesity. Westies enjoy activities like fetch, agility training, and obedience trials. They also benefit from interactive toys and puzzles that challenge their problem-solving skills.

Grooming Requirements

Both North and West Highland White Terriers have a double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Northies have a harsh, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat that needs to be brushed weekly to prevent matting and tangles. They also need to be bathed every few months to keep their coat clean and healthy. West Highland White Terriers have a softer outer coat and a dense undercoat that needs to be brushed several times a week to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Westies also need to be bathed regularly to keep their coat looking its best.

Health Concerns

Both North and West Highland White Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Northies are at risk for conditions like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and skin allergies. They may also develop a condition called white shaker syndrome, which causes tremors and muscle weakness. West Highland White Terriers are prone to conditions like atopic dermatitis, craniomandibular osteopathy, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. They may also develop skin problems like hot spots and allergies. It is important to work with a reputable breeder and schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, North and West Highland White Terriers are both wonderful breeds with unique characteristics and qualities. Northies are lively and outgoing dogs that enjoy being the center of attention, while Westies are confident and spirited dogs that are loyal and affectionate companions. Both breeds require regular exercise, grooming, and veterinary care to stay healthy and happy. Whether you choose a Northie or a Westie, you are sure to have a loving and loyal companion that will bring joy to your life for years to come.