What Is the Difference Between Westie and Scottie Dogs?

The West Highland white terrier and Scottish terrier both hail from Scotland and have similar appearances. According to the West Highland White Terrier Club of America, these dogs have similar ancestors. Both breeds are skilled hunters and display both intelligence and cunning while out in the field. While they share many features, they have more than a few differences, as well.

  1. Shape

    • One of the most distinguished characteristics of the Scottie is his long, straight snout. This, along with his perky ears, long body and upright tail, gives him a distinctive look. The Westie, on the other hand, is equally compact, but his features aren't as long. His head is more rounded and his snout is in better proportion to his body. Both dogs have short, compact legs that helped them out when hunting small game.

    Size

    • Both the Scottie and the Westie are similar in size, although slight differences arise in height and length. A Westie dog should reach 11 inches at the withers; the female should be 10 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club. A Scottie, on the other hand, should be about 10 inches tall at the withers, regardless of sex. Westies should be shorter in length than they are tall; a Scottie should be slightly longer with a length of 11 inches between the withers and beginning of the tail.

    Coat

    • A West Highland white terrier's coat is naturally hard with a durable outer coat of straight, white hair and a denser undercoat. The breed standard in the ring penalizes any coat that isn't a double coat or a coat that is too silky, soft, fluffy or curly. The Scottie's coat should be hard and wiry with a dense, soft undercoat. Since these terriers were bred for hunting small game, the double coat helps protect them from the elements and certain dangers of the hunt. As far as color, any color outside of white isn't acceptable for a Westie, although white hairs with wheaten tips may be accepted. A Scottie may be black, brindle or wheaten color with small white patches on the chest or chin.

    Personality

    • While all dogs have individual personalities, Westies and Scotties, like other breeds, have temperaments standard of their respective breed. Both breeds should be alert and spirited, although the Scottie is known as a particularly rugged little breed with a determined attitude. Scotties are known for sometimes being aggressive toward other dogs, but are particularly friendly with people. Westies are known for their playful nature, but also for their self-reliance.