Are You and Your Home Compatible With the Westie?
West Highland White Terriers are small-bodied, tireless, inquisitive dogs that also make amazing pets. But circumstances also vary. Their small built means not all family settings may be good for them, e.g. homes with small kids, or homes that will still grow. The West Highland White Terrier Club of America says the dogs are not appropriate for homes with kids aged ten or younger, but this has since become a matter of contention. Differing groups say it is enough that your dog and your kid are under constant supervision. The basic ups and downs of a westie pet are quickly tackled below.
A sense of territory and property is also a strong trait among westies, and is noticeable when it comes to the dog’s food and toys. A child may not be able to grasp the idea of “property” and, in getting too close to the dog, may earn its ire. Westies can also be protective of their family. The innocent wrestling between your child and his friends may result to a westie rushing out, teeth bristling, to find out how it can help. Should the worst happen and your westie does end up biting, certain procedures need to be followed, among which include informing the local police and the health department, or animal control division. Medical bills will also need to be covered by the dog owner.
Obviously, all these points are too-wide generalizations that miss out on important details. Not every dog is the same, or will fall into these headings. A lot of westies have matured with their families, or met new additions in the family with no complexes. But for things to work out, everybody at home needs to know what is going on and what each is expected to contribute. Eventually, for westies and children to be in harmony at home, what is needed will be considering your westie as a full member of the family, socialization, and good obedience training.
Westies are pack animals in their most inner core. This is is useful remembering, since the westie considers himself as a full pack member. Thus think of the role that the needs—like westie training–and personality of your westie will play in thinking of new additions to your family. Obedience training and good socialization skills need to be learned by the dog as soon as he can, and westies will benefit a lot from growing up skilled in good manners, mature and responsible. Socialization at an early puppy age will aid the westie in even comprehending the complexities of behaving around people of varying ages, and learning friendly body language. Teaching the limitations of westie behavior is very much a part of obedience training.
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