Scottie or Westie: this mistake is perfectly understandable

Show an uninformed dog lover a photo of a Westie, and they would identify a Westie as a white Scottie. This mistake is perfectly understandable as they have similar physical attributes and both originated in Scotland.

There are many theories postulated about these similarities. However, a valid assumption is that centuries ago, a generic terrier was once a native of Scotland.

Over the years, different races of interbreeding, locations, conditions, and human requirements emerged, resulting in the different races. So when you compare the modern Westie to its two closest relatives, the Scottie and the Cairn, you’ll see more similarities than differences.

These are just a few of the differences between a Scottie and a Westie.

A Westie is generally 12 to 15 inches tall with a straight, erect tail, about 5 to 6 inches. This breed has a two-inch white double coat, while the outer coat is smooth and hard coat, the undercoat is soft.

They have a black button nose and pointed upright ears. Their deep chests and muscular limbs give Westies the agility and power that was required in their breed’s original line of work. They were originally developed to hunt vermin in the mountains of western Scotland.

The shortest Scottish Terrier stands approximately 10-11 inches tall. The coat of a typical Scotsman is hard, rough, weather resistant, and a thick, cobby body that hangs between short, heavy legs. Unlike the westie, they come in different colors; black, brown and bindle.

Another difference is that their noses are larger compared to those of the west, although sometimes you will come across a Scotsman who has a button for a nose. The ears and tail of the Scotsman are pointed and erect.

How does the American Kennel Club (AKC) describe the standard gait of both breeds? The Westie movement is free, straight and easy, and is a distinctive gait, not forced, but powerful, with reach and thrust. Your overall ability to move is generally best assessed from the side, and the top line remains level.

The Scottish Terrier gait is not the square trot or gait desirable in long-legged breeds. Its forelegs are angled slightly inward due to the wide deep sill. Movement should be free, agile, and coordinated with powerful push from behind and good reach from the front. When the dog is in motion, the back should remain firm and level.

You will not go wrong in choosing a pet of either breed, as they are popular not only for their appearance, but also because they are loving, intelligent, loving, and loyal dogs.

(Disclaimer: Any information on this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice provided by your own veterinarian. Do not use the information contained herein to diagnose the health of any animal. You should always consult and consult with your own veterinarian or veterinarian.)

Hope you found the article useful.

Good health and happiness.

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