West Highand White Terriers and allergies
If you suffer from allergies but desire a dog, it can be a cruel fate. However, while no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, the faithful, loyal, and fun loving West Highland White Terrier is one of the few breeds recommended by the Asthma Society for those with allergies. As a respected breeder of West Highland White Terriers for over 15 years, I have talked with many families who have given up on having a dog due to allergies. It can be heartbreaking, especially for children, but allergies don’t mean you can’t share and experience the joy of caring for and loving these wonderful little creatures.
Let me explain what Hypoallergenic means
As I said at the top, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic meaning there is zero chance of not activating allergies. Dogs have hair, and hair can be horrible for people with allergies or asthma. Several dog breeds are better tolerated for people with allergies, and the West Highland White Terrier is one of the Asthma Society’s top picks.
The reason is these dogs have less dander. Their wiry outer coat sits atop a soft undercoat that holds dander rather than it escaping into the air. (Dander is dead skin cells) which is a common source of allergies. With regular grooming, the West Highland White Terrier can be the companion you’ve been searching for without the sneezing.
Are they easy to maintain?
Are they easy to maintain? It is a question I often get when chatting with prospective puppy owners. The short answer is that they are not hard but require attention to groom their coats. Bathing your Westie and brushing their coats regularly is needed, particularly if yours is a typical Westie and likes to explore the backyard, the park, or the beach. The bath and brush is not an ordeal; a Westie loves the extra attention; any time spent with you is magic to them.
Brushing and bathing will help minimise dander. Another tip is to keep their beds clean. A regular run-over with the Hoover will go a long way to keeping allergies at bay.
They’re a tidy breed by nature, and you won’t need to worry about drooling or any heavy shedding. They are the perfect inside companion and love being with the family on the couch, snuggled up at the end of a busy day.
If you are prone to allergies, my advice is to spend time with a West Highland White Terrier before committing and gauge your sensitivity.
In some more extreme cases, you may react more to dog saliva than fur or dander, which will make a difference in whether a dog is a good option for your circumstances. Consulting a doctor or allergy specialist may be necessary to make sure. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable around your pet.
If you have wanted a dog in your life but have been avoiding it due to allergies, a West Highland White Terrier may well be the answer.
They’re a special breed with unique and dynamic personalities. Naturally, I am biased, as they are my world, but I know firsthand the joy and love these animals bring into the home.
We have placed our West Highland White Terriers with owners all over Australia, and they never cease to amaze me how they become such an integral part of any family.
So, if you suffer from allergies all is not lost. The robust, cheeky, and playful West Highland White Terrier may well be what you’ve been looking for.
Brandywine is a selective breeder specialising in West Highland White Terriers
Our breeding stock is limited and registered with Dogs New South Wales. We take extra special care of our westie pups that we have for sale.
They are kept close and connected to their mothers and are free to develop their unique temperaments and personalities as nature intended. If you’re thinking about owning a Westie, contact Julie at Brandywine for more information or join our waiting list.