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

Compare the West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Westie (or Westy) or a Golden Sammy? 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 West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?
18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )
15.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )
12.5 inches ( 31.8 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys hypoallergenic, or neither?

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.

No

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy dogs?
Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Playful
Stubborn
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Reliable
Lively
Sociable
Kind
Trustworthy

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Golden Sammys, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys?

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

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

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Golden Sammys make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy dog breeds?
Scotland

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds?
scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Golden Retriever and Samoyed

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?
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

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds first developed?
1800s

2000's

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy dogs?
Brown

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds?
White

Cream
White
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds?

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

Golden Sammys are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?
Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?

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.

5-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Golden Sammy can have a litter of 5-10 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.

Adaptability

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Golden Sammys are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

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

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.

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

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds?
Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Retinal Dysplasia
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Entropion
Deafness
Pulmonic Stenosis
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Sebaceous Adenitis
Glaucoma
Eye Abnormalities
Cerebellar Abiotrophy
Hemophilia
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism
Portosystemic Shunt
Histiocytosis
Corneal Dystrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds?
Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Elbow
Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Dna Test For Vwd
Heart
Thyroid Tests
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Golden Sammys compare?

West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Golden Sammy social needs comparison

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Golden Sammy has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

West Highland White Terrier vs Golden Sammy exercise need comparison.

The West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

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

Golden Sammys are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys bark more/less frequently?

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Golden Sammy dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Golden Sammy?

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy entertained?
Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Fetch, Tug-of-war, Cuddles, Walking, Go to Beach, Go to Park, Go on Vacation, Walk, Run, Catch treats, Play, Nap, Chase, Brushing, Dog Parks, Hike, Hiking, Beach, Cuddling, Eating Snacks, Long walk, Long walks, Jumping waves

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys?

Medium

Both West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy 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 West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy walk each week?

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.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Golden Sammy, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys require more exercise?

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.

40 minutes

In general most Golden Sammys usually need at least 40 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, West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys?

West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy 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 West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy dogs?

Weekly

West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy 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 West Highland White Terriers and Golden Sammys?
Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy in cups?

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.

2.5 cups

For an average 50-75 pound (23 - 34 kg) Golden Sammy feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

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

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Golden Sammy is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

$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.

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Golden Sammy 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: West Highland White Terriers vs Golden Sammys

West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Golden Sammy is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy compare in sensitivity?

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

Golden Sammys have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Golden Sammy?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

West Highland White Terriers and Golden Sammys are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do West Highland White Terriers or Golden Sammys have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

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

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

West Highland White Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Golden Sammys are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

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

Golden Sammys are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Golden Sammy?

West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy 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 West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy?

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

Golden Sammys are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Golden Sammys compare?

West Highland White Terrier and Golden Sammy 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