Silkin vs West Highland White Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Silky Chin or Westie (or Westy)?
Compare the Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Silky Chin or a Westie (or Westy)? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Silky Chin
Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier
Weight
What is the average weight of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
8.5 pounds
( 4 kg )
18.0 pounds
( 8 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier
10.0 inches
( 25.4 cm )
11.0 inches
( 27.9 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Silkins or West Highland White Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, the Silkin 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 Silkin and West Highland White Terrier dogs?
Do Silkins shed more than West Highland White Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Silkins or West Highland White Terriers?
Silkins are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.
West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Avoid Silkins as watchdogs - they're not effective.
West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Ancestry
What are the origins of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Silky Terrier, Japanese Chin
scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club DBR = Designer Breed Registry DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc. IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®
American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club Club Espanol De Terriers
Date of Birth
When were Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds first developed?
Unknown
1800s
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
Black Brown
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Black Brown White Cream
White
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
The coat of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
3-5 puppies per pregnancy
A Silkin can have a litter of 3-5 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 Silkin 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 Silkin and West Highland White Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?
While the Silkin breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
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 Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
Hip Dysplasia Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease Heart Murmur Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Craniomandibular Osteopathy
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Silkin and West Highland White Terrier breeds?
Physical Examination Blood Count X-rays or other radiographic imaging Eye and Ear Examination
Hip Knee Blood Test X-Rays Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Silkins and West Highland White Terriers compare?
Silkins are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Social Needs
Silkin vs West Highland White Terrier social needs comparison
Silkin has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Silkin vs West Highland White Terrier exercise need comparison.
Silkins require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.
West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Silkins are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.
West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Tendency to Bark
Do Silkins or West Highland White Terriers bark more/less frequently?
Silkins are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.
West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Silkin vs West Highland White Terrier?
Roaming urge
Silkin vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Silkin or West Highland White Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Silkins or West Highland White Terriers?
Low
Silkins are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Silkin dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.
Medium
West Highland White Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Silkin or West Highland White Terrier walk each week?
7 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silkin, it's at least 7 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 Silkins or West Highland White Terriers require more exercise?
30 minutes
Both Silkin and West Highland White Terrier typically require a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Silkins or West Highland White Terriers?
Silkin and West Highland White Terrier are breeds of dogs that require a significant amount of grooming. They will also require regular trims, and a professional groomer's help is often necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They may also need regular baths to maintain their coat and skin.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Silkin and West Highland White Terrier dogs?
Daily
Ideally, Silkin should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Weekly
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 Silkins and West Highland White Terriers?
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Silkin or West Highland White Terrier in cups?
1.5 cups
For an average 8-11 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silkin feed 1.5 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, Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
$1.10 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Silkin is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 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, Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
$28 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Silkin is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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.
$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.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Silkins vs West Highland White Terriers
Silkin and West Highland White Terrier have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.
Sensitivity Level
How do Silkin and West Highland White Terrier compare in sensitivity?
These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Silkin and West Highland White Terrier need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Silkin vs West Highland White Terrier?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Silkins make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Silkins or West Highland White Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Silkins have an average level of friendliness towards children.
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 - Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Cat Friendly
Do Silkin or West Highland White Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Silkins are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.
West Highland White Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Silkins 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 Silkin or West Highland White Terrier dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Silkin or West Highland White Terrier?
Silkin 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 Silkin and West Highland White Terrier?
Silkins are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
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 Silkins and West Highland White Terriers compare?
Silkin 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.
