How to Groom a Westie Dog

A Westie is a small dog with a big personality and a lot of energy. Also known by its formal moniker, the West Highland White Terrier, this breed of dog can be a wonderful, playful pet. While a Westie's playfulness may make keeping it calm an issue, grooming it is not difficult as long as you do it on a regular basis.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog brush
  • Comb
  • Dog fur clippers
  • Dog nail clippers
  • Tissue
  • Dog shampoo
  • Water
  • Blow dryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush out your dog's fur with a dog-grooming brush, starting from the skin and moving outward to prevent any tangling. The fur on the legs should be brushed upward. Reach the stomach by standing your Westie on its hind legs.

    • 2

      Turn the hair clippers to the medium setting to clip the fur. Press the clippers up to the skin and go against drag the clippers against the hair, for an even cut. Stay away from the fur on the head. Leaving the fur full creates a lion-style look.

    • 3

      Clip the nails with dog nail clippers about once a month. Be careful not to clip the quick of the nail, which is the triangular area toward the middle and bottom edge of the nail. If you clip it, the nail can bleed. To be safe, only clip the very edge of the nail. If they do start bleeding, use styptic powder to stop the bleeding and contact your veterinarian.

    • 4

      Moisten a tissue to clean out the surface area of your Westie's ears. The tissue will get rid of dust buildup, which gathers because the ears are erect.

    • 5

      Bathe your Westie every two months. Use a quality dog shampoo and apply it deep into the fur by scrubbing with the tips of your fingers. Rinse your Westie thoroughly after scrubbing, using a stream of water that is close to the fur so that shampoo does not get in their eyes. If possible, blow dry your Westie to prevent a cold.