A Roundup Of 15 Dogs That Share The Westie’s Distinctive Traits
The West Highland White Terrier is a little white cannonball of smarts. If you’ve fallen for that big-body attitude, you’re in for a treat. We’ve rounded up 15 other breeds that have a similar attitude and cuteness range. Let’s meet the extended Westie family, shall we?
Cairn Terrier
This scruffy little legend doesn’t do boring. Cairn Terriers are curious and always in the middle of the action. Think Westie vibes, but with a tousle and more mischief in the eyes. This is the original Toto from “The Wizard of Oz”—instant star power.
Scottish Terrier
Looking like it owns a cigar lounge, the Scottie oozes confidence. Its unmistakable profile and feisty streak bring serious Westie energy just wrapped in a darker, moodier coat. It is loyal to the core but dramatic enough to keep things spicy.
Skye Terrier
Long, silky coat. Big dog, sass. Westie-worthy stubborn streak. This low-rider has more hair than height, but don’t let the elegance fool you. Skye Terriers have grit. Once bred to chase vermin into rocky dens, it’s now just as happy chasing slippers across your living room.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
What do you get when you cross a sausage dog with a powder puff? This is an underrated sweetheart. The Dandie has a big head and an even bigger heart. It’s loyal and has the same scrappy confidence that makes the Westie a crowd favorite.
Sealyham Terrier
White coat? Check. Compact size? Yep. Hidden goofiness? Absolutely. The Sealyham looks all prim and proper until it suddenly zooms across the room. Rare and seriously underrated, this breed brings Westie-like spunk with a touch more mystery.
Norwich Terrier
With ears that stick up like radar dishes and a personality that fills a room, the Norwich Terrier is pure dynamite. If you’re into West Highland White Terrier energy with extra chaos sprinkled in, this one delivers. Tiny but mighty? That’s just the finishing touch on this firecracker.
Norfolk Terrier
Always down for a good time, the Norfolk Terrier is built for adventure. It matches the West Highland White Terrier’s fearless attitude and adds even more social charm. Think a Norwich with floppy ears, but don’t assume it’s a remix. This one owns its vibe.
Border Terrier
It looks a bit scruffy, sure. But the Border Terrier is as loyal as they come. With its wiry coat and gentle eyes, this breed works hard, plays hard, and also loves hard. Westie fans will appreciate the balance of brain and butter-melt soul.
Jack Russell Terrier
Warning: This one comes with an energy warning label. The Jack Russell is a hyper-smart, action-craving powerhouse that never sits still. It shares the Westie’s boldness but dials the chaos up to 11. Great for thrill-seekers but not great for couch potatoes.
Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier is athletic and always ready for launch mode. It shares the West Highland White Terrier’s zest for life but adds longer legs to the mix—hello, extra bounce. It’s like a Jack Russell with a growth spurt and more poise: same fire, just taller flames.
Fox Terrier
If Westies are cheeky charmers, Fox Terriers are full-on party crashers. Known for being clever and occasionally too bright for their own good, these dogs live for action. Expect mayhem and a whole lot of “what just happened?”
Welsh Terrier
This wiry-coated goofball is often mistaken for a mini Airedale, but it marches to its own beat. It’s got that classic West Highland White Terrier boldness but with an extra splash of mischief and just a hint of rebellion. It looks like it’s hiding a scandal.
Lakeland Terrier
Originally bred to chase sheep-stealing foxes across England’s rocky hills, this breed brings rugged charm in a bite-sized package. It’s quick and as stubborn as a toddler with a cookie. If the Westie had a boulder-hopping cousin, this would be it.
Irish Terrier
Fiery in both coat and attitude, the Irish Terrier is not here to play. It’s one of the boldest terriers, fiercely loyal, and surprisingly sweet behind the tough exterior, like a Westie with a higher drama setting—and red hair that stuns.
Bedlington Terrier
At first glance, you think, “poodle mix?” Then it takes off after a squirrel like a furry missile. The Bedlington is all softness on the outside, but it’s got nerve and agility that could give a Westie a run for its treats. Total underdog, in the best way.
