Different Hairstyles for Westie Terriers

West Highland White Terriers, commonly referred to as "Westies," are known for their crisp white coats, black noses, and stout terrier bodies. Also, as many a Westie lover will tell you, their charming personalities make them wonderful pets. In the show ring, they are alert and agile, and their chrysanthemum-shaped heads cannot be mistaken for those of any other breed.

  1. Hand Stripping

    • Hand stripping is a method of grooming that should only be attempted by the professional groomer or Westie breeder. Stripping combs and knives ( a tools shaped like a knife with tiny teeth and a rounded end used for pulling hair) are used to pull dead hair out by the root, which allows new, coarser hair to grow back in. When terriers are to be shown in the ring, this is the only type of method acceptable for a hairstyle.

    Traditional Pet Groom

    • A pet groom on a Westie consists of shaving the back and blending the hair into both sides of the body. Use the breastbone as a guideline for how far to come down. Follow an imaginary line around the dog, sloping downwards with the clippers to get a blended effect. This takes some practice, but thinning shears can be used to fix any mistakes. The "skirt" can be left as short or as long as you want it.

    Westie Head

    • A traditional Westie head can be accomplished by taking a length of hair on the top of your dog's head between your fingers and trimming off what remains. Then comb forward and trim a little off of what hangs in the eyes. The sides can be tricky for a beginner, but practice makes perfect. Grasp your dog's ear in one hand and fold it in half. Then, while he is looking at you, trim from his chin to the ear. Repeat on the other side, and then trim under the chin. At first, it is best to trim a little at a time. This way, you can take your dog to the local groomer to fix any mistakes.

    Short All Over

    • Some people prefer to keep their Westies in a shorter haircut. This style is popular because it is low maintenance and cost effective, while still retaining the traditional Westie "look." The body is clipped at all one length, but the head is kept in a traditional, albeit shorter, Westie style. This style is most popular during the hot summer months, but some people prefer it all year round because it is a longer-lasting haircut.