FAQs
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page, where we’ve compiled essential information about our beloved West Highland White Terriers. If you’re considering a Westie for your family, we’re here to provide clear, helpful answers to your most common questions.
Do you have a waiting list?
The short answer is yes! We are a selective breeder of these adorable dogs with a carefully timed breeding schedule to ensure the welfare of the parents and the pups. Our pups are in high demand, and contacting us directly is essential. We are always available to help.
By going on our waiting list you are reserving your puppy in advance. All that is left to do is to wait until we call you with the good news that your new puppy has arrived!
A deposit of $500 is required when you go on our waiting list … fully refundable if you change your mind.
How much does a Westie puppy cost?
This will depend on whether you are looking for a dog that you can breed from and show (Main Register with Dogs NSW), or if you are looking for a pet only (Limited Register).
Please contact us for current pricing, depending on the Registration you require. A deposit of $1,000 is required to secure your puppy, with the balance to be paid before they are six weeks of age. At this time they are vaccinated, microchipped, fully vet checked for health … and registered to their new owners! Again, any monies paid are fully refunded if you change your mind.
Do you offer transport for a puppy to its new home?
Yes! We recommend and can arrange transport with Darcy Dogs, an exclusive door-to-door road and air transport service across NSW, the ACT, and anywhere in Australia if needed.
We always prefer families to pick up their puppy in person so you can meet the parents and see their home environment, but we understand that transport is sometimes necessary due to work, distance, or time constraints. Once a puppy leaves our property via transport, their journey becomes your responsibility.
Do you test the DNA of your dogs?
Yes, we do! Many of our dogs come from multiple generations of our breeding program. In most cases, we also know their DNA status through parentage and in twenty years of breeding, we have not had any genetic issues in any of our bloodlines. We do not routinely DNA test every puppy born, however this can be arranged at your request and cost.
Are you a registered breeder?
Yes, our breeder registration number is 2100065037. We take registration and compliance seriously and are proud of our heritage and association with Dogs New South Wales. Ethical and humane breeding is at the heart of everything we do at Brandywine, and we are committed to protecting the West Highland White Terrier bloodline. Our breeding stock is carefully selected and Main Registered with Dogs NSW, and every owner receives Pedigree Certificate from Dogs NSW to guarantee their puppy’s integrity and purebred status.
Do you provide a health guarantee?
We take every step to ensure our puppies have the best possible start in life by breeding from carefully selected, healthy dogs. Each puppy is thoroughly vet-checked at 6–7 weeks of age, where its heart, lungs, eyes, teeth, jaw, hips, and patellas are examined and recorded in its puppy passport. It is also vaccinated and microchipped at this time.
While we do everything we can to provide you with a healthy puppy, some health conditions can develop unexpectedly. We encourage families to keep us informed of any concerns. If your vet identifies a serious issue during the scheduled 10-week or 13-week vaccination check-ups, we will work with you to find a solution.
What happens I'm unable to keep my puppy or adult dog?
Get in touch with us. We will do our best to assist you with rehoming your pet.
What will my puppy come with?
Your puppy will come home with a puppy passport. This includes records of vaccinations, microchip details and fully documented vet check for health. To help with the transition, they’ll also have a soft toy from the litter and mum, carrying familiar scents for comfort.
We will also email you their current feeding regime and tips on feeding, toileting, bedding, and daily routine to make settling in as smooth as possible.
What diet should my puppy receive?
We will provide a menu plan. We highly recommend premium puppy kibble, cooked chicken, and raw mince mixture plus raw bones for chew times. Your vet will be able to provide ongoing dietary advice as your puppy grows.
What is the difference between male and female Westies?
Male and female West Highland Terriers share many of the same charming and affectionate traits, with a few small intricate differences.
Males tend to be slightly larger and more muscular, typically weighing 7-10 kg, while females are smaller, averaging 6-8 kg. In terms of personality, male Westies are often more playful, outgoing, and eager to please. They can also be more stubborn and excitable, particularly during training.
Females are generally more independent and reserved, often displaying a more focused and determined nature. They may be quicker to learn commands but can also be more strong-willed. Both genders require proper socialisation and training to prevent territorial behaviour.
With proper care, males and females typically live between 12 and 16 years. Spaying or neutering can significantly impact behaviour, with neutered males often being less prone to marking and roaming, while spayed females avoid heat cycles and potential hormonal mood swings. Ultimately, the choice between a male or female Westie comes down to personal preference, as both make loyal, intelligent, and spirited companions.
Is puppy preschool recommended?
Absolutely. Training and socialisation are highly recommended for any dog, and the Westie thrives in this environment. It is a wonderful experience for the whole family.
Join our waiting list
Brandywine is a selective breeder of these adorable dogs, with a carefully timed breeding schedule to ensure the welfare of the parents and the pups. Our pups are in high demand, and contacting us directly is essential. Please use the online form, and we’ll respond within 48 hours, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, give us a call or send us an email.
We are always available to help.
Happy Owners
We picked up our bundle of fluff in 2016. Now nine years old, she has been a delight, full of all the Westie things. She loves a cuddle and a tummy rub, is a very active little dog, and is very social.
Recent visit to the Vet, Marg said she was very well-bred, solid, and alert. Julie obviously takes a lot of care before and after the arrival of the puppies, which is very accurate, for this one enjoys excellent health.
- Mahlee-Helen Hunter
Happy Owners
We picked up Shaun from Brandywine many years ago, and he is still thriving. He’s been the most precious addition to our family. His calm yet playful nature endears him to every family member, and those outside the family adore his gentleness. He loves nothing more than being around people, watching TV, travelling, going for a bush walk, playing dress-up, and interacting with all types of other animals. He gets along with everyone, so much so that he has become a part time therapy dog at the school where I work.
- Shaun - Paul and Marie Verstegen
Happy Owners
As first-time dog owners, our journey with Brandywine Westies was incredible. From the very beginning, you took the time to truly understand our lifestyle and what we were looking for in a furry companion. It felt like you weren’t just helping us find a dog—you were helping us find our dog, and we couldn’t have been paired more perfectly.
- Angus - Tegan and Adam
Happy Owners
The entire process was stress-free. We felt fully informed every step of the way before deciding to welcome Bruno into our lives and after becoming part of our family. Julie’s responsiveness and support were invaluable, especially as first-time dog owners navigating something new. Her guidance made everything much easier, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Bruno has brought so much love and joy into our lives, and we’re so thankful for the care and dedication that went into helping us find him!
- Bruno - Giovanny Garcia
Happy Owners
Archie is our first dog, and we could not have asked for a better family pet. We love his easy-going personality and temperament and cannot imagine life without him. As first-timers, we are happy we went through Julie, who facilitated a straightforward and transparent process.
- Archie - The Tang Family
Happy Owners
Eli just turned 8! And he is still like a puppy, full of life and energy!
We couldn’t imagine our home without this little guy. The purchasing process was quick and simple. We travelled from Singapore to visit Brandywine to choose a puppy. I remember how Eli bounded straight for each of us and then rolled over on his back for tummy rubs. That is how Eli chose us as a family! It was a worthwhile trip! We even got to meet Eli’s mum and dad. Thanks again for this beautiful gift.
- Eli - Su-Lyn Meyer
Happy owners
Geordie is now seven and always in good health. He has a wonderful, strong, and loving personality. After several breeds of dogs, the Westie is the only one for us.
- Geordie - Dick
Happy owners
We picked up our delicious little westie pup Freya from the Brandywine farm and it didn’t take her long to transition from a timid country girl into our inner-city lifestyle. She loves socialising with her new friends over a coffee and enjoying the sights and sounds of the hustle and bustle. The entire process was a dream come true and Julie is a caring and dedicated breeder. Would highly recommend a Brandywine westie pup.
- Freya - Margaret Stokans
Happy owners
We picked up our Westie, Arnie, in June 2015, and he has been the perfect addition to our family. The entire process was a joy, with great communication and expert advice. You guided us on the best timing for a puppy with a newborn at home, recommending we wait until our daughter was two. You kept us updated throughout the entire journey—from conception to birth—and helped us choose the perfect pup.Arnie is everything we hoped for—loyal, loving, and full of personality. He’s part of every moment, whether playing with our daughter or lounging in the sun. He’s a true Westie, both in looks and attitude, and constantly receives compliments. We couldn’t imagine our family without him and wouldn’t hesitate to get another Westie from you!
- Arnie - Mark Taylor
Happy owners
Lunar, now 11 years old, has excelled in Agility, Rally, Dances with Dogs, and Scentwork. She’s incredibly smart, adventurous, and loves traveling and camping. Scentwork is her favorite, and she brings her own unique personality to everything she does! – We’re so pleased we chose Brandywine and Julie is a gem.
- Lunar - Sarah Blaxall
Happy owners
Here’s our Ted! He’s doing great—though he’s not a fan of head washes, he loves being dried and groomed afterward. He enjoys caravan holidays, daily walks (with plenty of sniff stops), and, of course, chasing the cat! – Would recommend Julie and Brandywine to anybody thinking of adding a Westie to their family.
- Ted - Julie Janetzki
Happy owners
Agnes is now 6, though it feels like just yesterday I brought her home from Orange as a tiny puppy! She’s an absolute delight and truly precious. Julie was fantastic throughout the process. Her advice and transparency made everything feel easy and kind. A great experience.
- Agnes - Helen Parru
Happy owners
We couldn’t be more grateful for the wonderful Westie we brought home from Brandywine. Argos has not only brought endless joy to our home but has also become a beloved member of our extended family, friends, and even the neighbourhood!
His intelligence, social nature, and larger-than-life personality have given us a deeper understanding of the special bond between a dog and its owners. He’s a true character—always ready to pose for photos and full of strong opinions (though, in his mind, I seem to rank lowest in the household hierarchy!).
- Leanne & Zephyr
Happy owners
Cody has brought endless joy and mischief into our lives! He’s full of energy, keeps us on our toes, and has been a wonderful companion in our senior years. The process of finding and bringing him home to Sydney was seamless, with regular updates and photos that made the experience even more special. After losing our first Westie, Lochie, Cody has truly helped to heal our hearts. We’re so grateful to Brandywine Westies for our beloved little boy!
- Cody - Christine and Dale
Happy owners
Rigby has turned seven and is the delight of our lives. He loves the thrill of chasing balls and playing tug-of-war and never has his feet standing still. He is up and about dancing on his back legs whenever he sees the lead, and it’s time for his walk.
He is so friendly and gives everyone a big welcome home when we’ve been out so long as he gets his favourite tummy rub.
- Rigby - Belinda
Happy owners
We absolutely adore our little Theo! He’s brought so much joy, energy, and love into our home and has fit right into our family like he was always meant to be here. He has the sweetest nature and a playful personality that keeps us smiling every day.
Julie was wonderful to deal with — so helpful, kind, and clearly passionate about her Westies. We felt supported throughout the whole process and know Theo got the best start in life thanks to her care.
We’re so thankful we found Brandywine and can’t imagine life without Theo!
- Theo - Jordan Rahmani
Happy owners
Our puppy, Caspar, is a wonderful 5-month-old pup. He is healthy, confident, a great communicator, calm: a delightful companionable pup with a charming charismatic personality. He is so intelligent and has a kind, mischievous relationship with our 6-year-old Westie. He is a favourite at the local dog park!
- Mary - Ruth Mendel
Happy Owners
Daisy, our now 6-year old Westie has been such a wholesome addition to our lives! She’s highly intelligent, mischievous, energetic, and stubborn, yet always enjoys a nice warm cuddle with us! Dealing with Julie has been an easy stress-free process and we are now considering getting a younger sister for Daisy
- Jack & Alison
Happy Owners
Saying goodbye to our beloved Lulu left a silence we didn’t know how to fill. Three weeks later, we came across Brandywine Westies and discovered a new litter born on the very day Lulu passed, something that felt like fate. Julie was compassionate, patient, and genuine, guiding us through a delicate moment and offering us the last little girl. We named her Pixie. Throughout the wait, Julie’s updates reassured us. Now Pixie is home, happy, healthy, resilient, and already deeply loved.
- Pixie - Nikkie Elias
Happy Owners
Fergus settled in perfectly from day one. Our home is often filled with visitors, and with people around, he is in his element, loving the attention, cheeky and is a constant source of laughter of joy. He’s a real character and very smart. He loves people and puppies alike.
Julie was fantastic to work with. She listened, she advised, and she always had the puppy and our best interests at the forefront.I asked for a boofer with personality, and I certainly got that! Thank you.
Thank you, Renata
- Fergus - Renata
Contact Us
Brandywine is a selective breeder of these adorable dogs, with a carefully timed breeding schedule to ensure the welfare of the parents and the pups. Our pups are in high demand, and contacting us directly is essential. Please use the online form, and we’ll respond within 48 hours, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, give us a call or send us an email.
We are always available to help.
Cudal
Central West NSW
2864