West Highland White Terrier vs Sussex Spaniel Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Westie (or Westy) or Sussex?
Compare the West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Westie (or Westy) or a Sussex? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier
Sussex
Weight
What is the average weight of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
18.0 pounds
( 8 kg )
40.0 pounds
( 18 kg )
Height
What is the average height of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel
11.0 inches
( 27.9 cm )
14.0 inches
( 35.6 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Sussex Spaniel tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.
Hypoallergenic
Are West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels 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 Sussex Spaniel 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 Sussex Spaniel dogs?
Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Sussex Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels?
West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Sussex Spaniels are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
The West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.
Origin
What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dog breeds?
Scotland
England
Ancestry
What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds?
scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers
field spaniel
Date of Birth
When were West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds first developed?
1800s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)
Sporting (AKC:1884) Gun Dogs (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dogs?
Brown
Hazel
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
Black
Brown
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds?
White
Brown
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds?
The coat of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dogs falls in the medium-length category.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
Straight
Wavy
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
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.
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Sussex Spaniel can have a litter of 12-15 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.
Sussex Spaniels are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel, 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.
While the Sussex Spaniel breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds?
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
Craniomandibular Osteopathy
Intervertebral Disc Disease Hip Dysplasia
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds?
Hip Knee Blood Test X-Rays Physical Examination
Hip Skeletal X-Rays
Energy
How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Sussex Spaniels compare?
West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Sussex Spaniels are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.
Social Needs
West Highland White Terrier vs Sussex Spaniel social needs comparison
West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Sussex Spaniel has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Exercise Needed
West Highland White Terrier vs Sussex Spaniel exercise need comparison.
The West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel 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 Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Sussex Spaniels are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
The West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels bark more/less frequently?
West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel a better guard dog?
West Highland White Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
While Sussex Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Sussex Spaniel?
Roaming urge
West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels?
Medium
Both West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel 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 Sussex Spaniel 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.
8 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sussex Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels 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.
60 minutes
In general most Sussex Spaniels 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.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, West Highland White Terriers or Sussex Spaniels?
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.
The Sussex Spaniel requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel dogs?
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
Daily
Ideally, Sussex Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for West Highland White Terriers and Sussex Spaniels?
Pin Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel 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 cups
For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Sussex Spaniel feed 2 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 Sussex Spaniel?
$1.40 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.
$2.50 - $2.80 / day
The average cost of a Sussex Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $2.80 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
$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.
$74 - $84 / month
The average per month expenses of a Sussex Spaniel is between $74 - $84. This makes an average of $888 - $1008 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 Sussex Spaniels
West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Sussex Spaniel has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Sussex Spaniel?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terriers and Sussex Spaniels 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 Sussex Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?
West Highland White Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.
Sussex Spaniels 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 Sussex Spaniel?
Cat Friendly
Do West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
West Highland White Terriers and Sussex Spaniels 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: West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.
Sussex Spaniels are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.
Sussex Spaniels are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Sussex Spaniel?
West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.
Sussex Spaniels have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Sussex Spaniels compare?
West Highland White Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Sussex Spaniels are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
