How to Look After Your West Highland White Terrier’s Coat

The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie, is a breed of small dog originating in Scotland. They are lively, friendly and energetic, and are known for their distinctive white coat. Grooming West Highland Terriers can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can turn it into a bonding experience that leaves your Westie looking their absolute best. In this blog post, I will share some top tips and expert advice on grooming your Westie to ensure they stay happy, healthy, and looking their absolute best.

Equipment Needed

Slicker brush

Slicker brushes have thin bristles and are great for keeping your pet’s coat free of mats and tangles. They come in different types, so make sure to choose one that’s right for your pet’s age or breed. For example, a soft-tipped slicker brush is recommended for puppies because their skin is delicate.

Pin Brush

The Pin Brush is excellent for general grooming of small dog breeds. Pin Brushes helps to lift out loose hair and debris. It can also be used to fluff the coat by brushing against the direction of hair growth.

Comb

Another essential grooming tool is the comb. Many pet owners have combs at home, and they’re suitable for all long-haired dogs or cats. After using a slicker brush, combing through a pet’s fur is a great final step to make sure there are no knots or tangles left.

Grooming your West Highland White Terrier at Home

The Westie has a low-allergy, double coat, with a harsher outer coat and softer undercoat. You may notice light shedding, however most of the old coat is retained instead of dropping out, meaning the old dead coat needs to be removed during grooming instead. Regular brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent nasty knots, mats and tangles.

Because Westies lack the oily protective covering of some breeds, it’s best to limit the frequency of their baths. Use a mild shampoo that won’t remove the little protective oils from the coat. If there is filth that won’t come out during brushing, try spot-cleaning your Westie’s coat.

Common Issues with West Highland White Terrier’s Coat

• Atopic dermatitis: This is an allergic skin disease which is common in the West Highland white terrier, possibly affecting 25% of dogs. It causes mild to severe itching which, as a result of scratching or rubbing, often leads to further skin damage, irritation, infection and discomfort.
• Parasites: If you’re not treating your dog regularly with flea and tick medication, it’s time to start. The scratching that parasites’ bites can cause can open up sores if left untreated, leading to all sorts of flakes, sores, and even flea- or tick-borne disease.
• Allergies: Both environmental and edible triggers may be the culprit. Environmental allergies are triggered by contact with the offending substance, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, a tree or bush. Food allergies often manifest in the face, feet, and ears. These allergies may be developed over time. Your vet will likely recommend some sort of elimination diet to suss out the cause.