Meet 20 Breeds That Share The Westie’s Spirit And Style

The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is known for its bold spirit and loyal nature. While its white coat and confident personality set it apart, it’s not alone in those traits. Several other breeds share the Westie’s fearless attitude and clever charm. Let’s take a look at 20 dogs that bring the same energy to the table.

Cairn Terrier  

The Cairn Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier are closely related and both originated from Scotland. This small and highly energetic breed has a weather-resistant double coat. Cairns are excellent problem-solvers and independent thinkers. However, they require regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to maintain their rough coat.

Scottish Terrier  

Often called the “Scottie,” this breed shares a similar build and terrier temperament with the Westie. Scottish Terriers are distinguished by their long facial hair and dense, wiry coats, which require regular grooming. They are intelligent, bold, and somewhat independent, traits common in many terriers. Additionally, Scotties possess strong hunting instincts and make excellent watchdogs.

Norfolk Terrier  

Like the Westie, Norfolk Terriers are small dogs with a rough, weather-resistant coat. Originally bred for hunting rats and foxes, they have a fearless and lively personality. These dogs make great family pets because of their sociable and adaptable traits. Their coats need regular brushing and occasional trimming to keep them neat. 

Norwich Terrier  

The Norwich Terrier is similar in appearance and temperament to the Norfolk Terrier. Its ears stand erect rather than folding forward. Bred for ratting, the dog has a high prey drive. Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers are courageous and full of energy. They are also affectionate and make great companions for families and individuals. 

Sealyham Terrier  

Sealyham Terriers are another small, white-coated terrier with a sturdy build and a fearless nature. Although possessing a strong personality, the breed is affectionate and playful. Regular grooming helps prevent their coat from becoming tangled and matted. Unlike some terriers, Sealyhams can be slightly more relaxed and less hyperactive. Still, they are alert and excellent watchdogs.  

Jack Russell Terrier  

Striking similarities between the Jack Russell Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier include their small size and energy levels. Both breeds were originally bred for vermin control and are alert and intelligent. Jack Russells typically have a smooth or rough coat but require less grooming than the Westie’s dense, white fur. 

Parson Russell Terrier  

Closely related to the Jack Russell Terrier, the Parson Russell Terrier is slightly taller and more refined in build. They were bred for fox hunting, meaning they have strong instincts and require a lot of exercise. Like Westies, they have a strong-willed personality but are affectionate and loyal to their owners.

Border Terrier  

This small, sturdy breed has a rough, wiry coat that protects it against harsh weather conditions. It was bred for hunting small game and possesses an affectionate and friendly temperament. However, compared to the White Terrier, the Border Terrier is slightly easier going and adaptable. While both breeds are intelligent and trainable, Border Terriers are generally more sociable. 

Fox Terrier (Wirehaired)  

People love this dog for its distinctive, dense coat and keen hunting instincts. It was first bred in England for fox hunting and is naturally fearless and intelligent. Still, the Fox Terrier requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. In addition, they have wiry coats that need regular grooming, including hand-stripping, to prevent matting.

Lakeland Terrier

Another Westie lookalike, the Lakeland Terrier, has an attractive, weather-resistant coat in various colors, including red and blue. Due to their independent nature, Lakelands require consistent training. However, they may be more social with other dogs than Westies, but their prey drive makes them risky around small pets.

Welsh Terrier  

Though slightly larger than the Westie, the Welsh Terrier shares the same energetic and affectionate personality. Welshs do well in active households and need consistent training to prevent stubbornness. Interestingly, this breed is one of the oldest surviving terrier breeds, with roots dating back to the 1700s. It was favored by notable figures like John F. Kennedy.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier  

Don’t let their small size fool you—Dandie Dinmont Terriers are bold and make excellent watchdogs. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are distinct in appearance, with a long body, short legs, and a distinctive topknot of hair. Affectionate and intelligent, they are slightly more relaxed than the White Terrier. Dandies are relatively rare today, which makes them a treasured breed.

Australian Terrier  

The Australian Terrier’s rough coat is easy to maintain but requires regular brushing. One distinct trait is its sharp bark, making it an excellent watchdog. Originally bred in Australia to control vermin, this terrier forms a strong bond with its owners. Their small size notwithstanding, the dog is fearless and thrives in active households.

Skye Terrier  

Skye Terriers are long-bodied with a straight, flowing coat that requires more maintenance than a Westie’s. They are known for their affectionate nature, especially toward their owners. Intelligent but independent, the dog requires patient training and early socialization to help them develop a well-rounded temperament. 

Glen Of Imaal Terrier

This rare Irish breed is known for its sturdy build and rough coat. Unlike the White Terrier, Glens are quieter and less prone to excessive barking. Despite their laid-back demeanor, they are strong and require consistent training to manage their independent streak. With their affectionate nature, Glen of Imaal Terriers makes wonderful pets.

Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a close relative of the Jack Russell Terrier but has a slightly different build and temperament. Its small size and energetic personality are similar to those of the Westie. Russells possess a smooth or rough coat and love to explore. As a result, they need a secure yard and supervision during outdoor activities.

Coton de Tulear

Like the West Highland White Terrier, the Coton de Tulear is a small, affectionate breed that forms strong bonds with its owners. The breed also shares the Westie’s cheerful and intelligent nature. While the Westie has a wiry, weather-resistant coat, the Coton’s fur is soft and fluffy, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. 

American Eskimo Dog (Toy Size)

Eskies, as the American Eskimo Dog is fondly called, share the Westie’s intelligence and strong bond with their family. Eskies also look like the Westie in their alertness, often barking to signal unfamiliar activity. Both breeds have thick, white coats, though the Eskie’s is fluffier and requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles.

Bichon Frise

In addition to being compact, the Bichon Frise and the Westie feature white coats and sweet, friendly natures. Both breeds are intelligent and playful, enjoying an active lifestyle with their families. While the Westie has a wiry, weather-resistant coat, the Bichon’s soft, curly fur requires frequent grooming to maintain its signature fluffy look. 

Cesky Terrier  

Cesky Terriers have a unique wavy coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its shape. Though more laid-back than the White Terrier, they still possess strong hunting instincts. Recognized for their intelligence and trainability, they excel in obedience and agility competitions. Due to their rarity, Cesky Terriers are often considered a hidden gem among dog breeds.