Can a West Highland White Terriers be a Compatible Family Pet?

West Highland White Terriers are high energy, intelligent small statured dogs that can be wonderful pets. It all depends on the circumstances. Because Westies are a small breed, there are legitimate questions as to appropriate homes for them, especially those situations where there are small children or a planned expansion of the family. The West Highland White Terrier Club of America says the dogs are not suitable for families with children under age ten, but there are controversial views on this subject, just like many others. Some groups recommend your Westie and your children remain under constant supervision and they will be just fine. So what are the pros and cons of a having a West Highland White Terrier as a family pet?

Although at first sight, it appears that West Highland White Terriers are not appropriate family pets for those with small children, there are some promising factors. Before examining them, it is important to look over the negative aspects, so that you aren't bowled over by the good and therefore, overlook the bad, thinking, "That won't happen to us." Small children and small breeds such as the West Highland White Terrier aren't always a good combination, mainly due to the natural behaviors of both the children and the dogs, and little to do with how either were raised.

Small dogs, like Westies, often require a great deal of rest, especially after play time or exercise, and they like to "hide" when they are resting. Often crawling under a pillow or blanket, your do is no long visible to your child, and could lead to an accident, such as the child stepping or sitting on the West Highland White Terrier. Even accidentally, this could result in lasting damage, both to your dog and your child, if your pet retaliates by biting your child. Rough play could also result in injury to your Westie, as children often don't realize their strength when playing with pets.

Protectiveness is a strong characteristic of West Highland White Terrier, especially of their food and toys. A small child may not understand that concept, and may unintentionally venture too close to your Westie's territory, possibly eliciting a defensive bite from your pet. In addition to being protective of their food and toys, Westies are also protective of their human family. Innocent roughhousing of your child with his friends could result in your Westie attempting to defend his young family member. Although completely innocent on all parts, including your dog's, it is important to know that if your dog bites someone, certain procedures must be following, including involving the local police department and health department or animal control division. Additionally, medical bills generally fall to the responsibility of the dog's owner.

Finally, the boisterous and loud play combined with the unsteady movements of your children may frighten your West Highland White Terrier, resulting in a nervous or shy pet. Although there are some medications available for those high-strung pets, some owners prefer not to administer them.

Naturally, all of these examples are generalizations, and not every dog is the same or will fall into any of these categories. Plenty of Westies have grown up with their families or welcomed new additions with no difficulties. However, a large commitment from the parents is required, so that the entire family knows what is expected of them, in order to make these unique situations workable. Socialization, good obedience training, and considering your Westie as a full member of the family are the key components to making the combination of children and Westies work properly.

Good socialization skills and obedience training should start as early as possible for all dogs, and West Highland White Terriers are no different. Socialization at young ages will help the Westie understand what is expected of them, how to behave around people of all ages, and learn the cues that signify friendly behavior from those humans that would like to say hello or play. Understanding where a Westie's boundaries are is taught as a part of the obedience training. This is the point at which your children should become involved, attending the training classes with you and your family pet. In addition to teaching the Westie his boundaries, your children will learn how the dog should be treated and what acceptable behaviors with the family pet are.

West Highland White Terriers are pack animals. This is probably one of the most important things to remember, because the Westie considers himself a full member of the family. Considering your Westie when contemplating a new addition to the family is important and should be thought out in advance. The same goes for introducing a Westie to your existing family. Forgetting the needs of your Westie because of your new child is unacceptable, since getting a dog entails a lifetime commitment to him. Ignoring your Westie after having a new child can lead to unsavory and unhappy consequences, sometimes resulting in the displacement of your Westie from your home.