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Dane Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Dane Shepherd or Westie (or Westy)?

Compare the Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Dane Shepherd or a Westie (or Westy)? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?
17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )
18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier
16.0 inches ( 40.6 cm )
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Dane Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs?
Curious
Loving
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Obedient
Loyal
Devoted
Gentle
Watchful
Reserved

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Dane Shepherds shed more than West Highland White Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers?

Dane Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Origin

What is the origin of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dog breeds?
United States

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Great Dane, German Shepherd

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Date of Birth

When were Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds first developed?
Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Fawn
Black
Brindle
Blue
White
Cream
Gray
Sable

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

The coat of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?

6-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Dane Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-16 puppies per pregnancy

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

The adaptability of Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs is a well-known trait. They are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Dane Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Allergies
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?
None

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
X-Rays
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Blood Work
Lab Tests
Allergy Testing

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Social Needs

Dane Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier social needs comparison

Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

Dane Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Dane Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier?

Roaming urge

Dane Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier entertained?
Play, Walks, Beach walks, Parks, Adventures, Tug of war, Running, Wrestling, Swimming, Walk, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Snuggle, Wrestle

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers?

Medium

Both Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier walk each week?

11 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dane Shepherd, it's at least 11 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Dane Shepherds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers?

The Dane Shepherd has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Weekly

Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Dane Shepherds and West Highland White Terriers?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier in cups?

3 cups

For an average 65-110 pound (29 - 50 kg) Dane Shepherd feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1.8 cups

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Dane Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Dane Shepherd is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

The Dane Shepherd is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Dane Shepherds or West Highland White Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Dane Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

West Highland White Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

Cat Friendly

Do Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Dane Shepherds and West Highland White Terriers are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

Dane Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dane Shepherd or West Highland White Terrier?

Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier?

Dane Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Dane Shepherds and West Highland White Terriers compare?

Dane Shepherd and West Highland White Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Common match-ups