🐶 Dog · wire (harsh) coat
Coat care: West Highland White Terrier
White double coat – a straight, hard topcoat, about 5 cm long on the body according to the standard, and a short, soft, dense undercoat; longer hair on the belly and legs.
The West Highland White Terrier has a white double coat: a straight, hard topcoat which, according to the breed standard, is about 5 cm long, and a soft, dense undercoat. The hard texture protects against dirt and moisture, so bathing too often does more harm than good. Traditionally the dead hair is plucked out by hand, which keeps the coat hard, whereas many pet dogs are clipped and their coat becomes softer. At home, regular brushing is important – daily or at least several times a week.
🛁 Bathing
No more often than about once a month, and preferably less often – when needed – because frequent bathing softens the hard coat. Use lukewarm water, dilute concentrated shampoos according to the label and dry with a towel or a dryer on a low heat setting. A shampoo for white and light coats can be used to keep the coat white.
🪮 Brushing
Daily or at least several times a week with a slicker brush and a metal comb, brushing down to the skin, including the softer, longer hair on the legs and belly. Regular brushing distributes the natural oils and reduces loose hair.
Tips for home
- Plucking out the dead hair by hand (hand-stripping) preserves the hard texture of the coat; clipping makes it softer and sometimes curlier.
- Wipe the area around the eyes with a damp cloth to stop the white coat from staining; if you notice redness or itching, consult a vet.
- Clean the ears every one to two weeks.
- Trim the nails regularly.
Shampoos and conditioners for West Highland White Terrier
More in the finder →-
Chris Christensen ProLine Fair Advantage Volumising 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
€35,75 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €75,58/L -
Chris Christensen Spectrum One Shampoo for Harsh Coats
€35,99 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €76,09/L -
iGroom Texturizing Shampoo – Shampoo for Texture and Body
€79,65 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €168,39/L -
Crown Royale Biovite #3 Shampoo, Concentrate 4:1, 3.8l
€133,99 Size: 3.8L · 2 sizes Unit price €35,26/L -
Show Tech+ Rise & Shine Shampoo
€14,99 Unit price €49,97/L -
Chris Christensen Spectrum One Conditioner for Coarse & Rough Coats, Ultimate Texture, Concentrate 8:1
€98,99 Size: 3.8L · 2 sizes Unit price €26,05/L -
TropiClean Gentle Coconut Hypoallergenic Puppy and Kitten Shampoo 355ml
€12,99 Unit price €36,59/L -
Chris Christensen SmartRinse Vanilla Oatmeal Conditioner for Sensitive Skin, Concentrate 8:1, 59ml
€9,15 Unit price €155,08/L -
Crown Royale Soothing Oats & Aloe Conditioner, Professional Concentrate 20:1 for Dogs with Sensitive Skin
€42,99 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €90,89/L -
iGroom Prebiotic Conditioner for Dogs
€36,50 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €77,17/L
Frequently asked questions
How often should I bathe a West Highland White Terrier?
The West Highland White Terrier should not be bathed too often – usually no more than about once a month, and preferably only when needed, because frequent bathing softens the hard coat. Use lukewarm water and a shampoo diluted according to the label; a shampoo for white dogs can be used on the white coat. Dry with a towel or on a low heat setting.
What is hand-stripping, and does a West Highland White Terrier need it?
Hand-stripping means plucking out the dead topcoat by hand or with a special knife. It keeps the coat hard and is a must for show dogs, but it is not necessary for pets. Clipping is quicker, but it gradually makes the coat softer and sometimes curlier. Many owners combine brushing at home with a trim at the groomer every 4–6 weeks.
How do I keep my Westie's coat white?
A white coat stays cleaner when it is in good condition: the hard topcoat holds less dirt. Brush regularly, wipe the area around the eyes and mouth with a damp cloth and do not bathe too often. A shampoo for white and light coats, diluted according to the label, freshens the tone. If you notice redness, itching or brownish patches on the skin, consult a vet.
Care for other breeds
All breeds →This advice is general. For skin or ear problems, consult a vet.