How to Start Breeding Westies

The West Highland white terrier, also known as a Westie, is a small dog known for being loyal, energetic and devoted to owners. Those seeking to breed Westies need to approach the process with a true understanding of how breeding such a unique breed operates. You should be careful to assess the current supply and demand of Westies in your area before embarking on breeding dogs for profit, as not all litters can be sold due to low demand at times.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen or reserved space for Westies
  • Dog food
  • Water and dishes
  • Dog toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Own a Westie and get to know and understand the breed. You must relate to a type of dog before you will be able to successfully breed that dog. Choose to own either a female or male to get started as a breeder. Do not have a male and female Westie from the same litter as you will not be able to breed the two.

    • 2

      Wait until the dog reaches the age of one to two years old. This will allow the dog to reach maturity in terms of being able to produce or sire a litter and will also allow you to gauge the benefits of your particular dog.

    • 3

      Assess the competition in your area. Verify through the Westie Club of America which breeders are currently servicing the area you live in. The Westie Club of America is the only breeding group devoted solely to Westies.

    • 4

      Join the national or a local chapter of the Westie Club of America. Talk to other Westie owners, particularly owners who have dogs of the opposite sex of the dog you are going to be breeding. Meet and talk with more than one other breeder; you must be able to work well with the owner of the mate you choose.

    • 5

      Have a contract drawn up, either by yourself or by an attorney, outlining the responsibilities of both Westie owners. For example, if you own a stud, have a contract drawn up stating that you will offer your Westie for stud services on an as-needed basis and you will pay for all transportation costs for the studding only. If you have a female, make sure to state that you will be housing the female both before and during pregnancy. Reach an agreement regarding choice of the litter once born.

    • 6

      Have both Westie dogs, yours and the other breeder's, examined by a veterinarian to ensure a clean bill of health. Deliver your stud to the female when needed or have a stud come to your female while in heat. Allow the natural breeding process to ensue. You may need to use artificial insemination if impregnation does not occur after two rounds of breeding.