West Highland White Terriers, affectionately known as Westies, were originally bred in Scotland to hunt rodents and other small animals1. Their bright white coats made them stand out from their prey, preventing accidental shootings by their owners.
Today, these lively and affectionate dogs are beloved family pets, but maintaining their iconic white fur requires some special grooming techniques.
1. Brush Regularly to Prevent Matting
Westies have a double coat with a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Use a slicker brush or pin brush to gently brush through their fur at least once a week, paying extra attention to areas prone to matting like behind the ears and under the arms.
If you find any mats or tangles, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently work them out, starting at the ends of the hair and working your way up to the skin.
2. Bathe Sparingly with Gentle Shampoo
Although it may be tempting to bathe your Westie frequently to keep their coat sparkling white, over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their skin and lead to irritation. Aim to bathe your Westie every 4-6 weeks using a mild, dog-specific shampoo that won’t disrupt their skin’s pH balance.
When bathing, be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo, as residue can cause itching and flaking. Use a soft towel or blow dryer on a cool setting to dry your Westie completely before brushing.
3. Trim Fur Around Eyes & Paws
To keep your Westie looking neat and tidy, use blunt-tipped scissors to trim any long fur around their eyes, being careful not to get too close to the skin. This will help prevent tear stains and keep their vision clear.
You should also trim the fur between their paw pads and around their nails to prevent dirt and debris from getting trapped and causing irritation. If you’re not comfortable trimming your Westie’s fur yourself, consider taking them to a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks for a trim.
4. Use Cornstarch or Chalk for Spot Cleaning
Even with regular brushing and bathing, your Westie’s white coat may pick up dirt and stains between grooming sessions. To spot clean small areas, sprinkle cornstarch or white chalk onto the fur and gently massage it in with your fingers.
Let the powder sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb any grease or dirt, then brush it out thoroughly with a slicker brush. This dry cleaning method can help keep your Westie’s coat looking fresh and bright without the need for frequent baths.
5. Address Tear Stains Gently
Many Westies develop reddish-brown tear stains under their eyes due to the shape of their face and the way their tears drain. To help prevent and remove these stains, gently wipe the area under your Westie’s eyes with a damp cloth or cotton ball every day.
If the stains are particularly stubborn, you can try using a commercial tear stain remover, being very careful not to get any in your dog’s eyes.
6. Feed a High-Quality Diet for Coat Health
What you feed your Westie can have a big impact on the health and appearance of their coat. Look for a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that support skin and coat health.
Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as these can trigger allergies and other skin issues in some dogs. If you notice your Westie scratching excessively, losing fur, or developing a dull coat, talk to your vet about whether a change in diet or supplements might help.
Source:
1. westieclubamerica.com
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.