West Highland White Terrier vs. Sheltie Tzu: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

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.

Unfortunately, the Sheltie Tzu 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 Sheltie Tzu dogs?

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Sheltie Tzus, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus?

1 / 5

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

2 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

Avoid Sheltie Tzus as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu dog breeds?

Scotland

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu breeds?

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Shetland Sheepdog and Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

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

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu breeds first developed?

1800s

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu dogs?

Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu breeds?

White

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
Silver
White
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu breeds?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

4 / 5

Sheltie Tzus have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

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.

A Sheltie Tzu can have a litter of 4-6 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

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Health Issues

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

5 / 5

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.

3 / 5

While the Sheltie Tzu 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 Sheltie Tzu breeds?

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Patellar Luxation
Von Willebrand's Disease
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Entropion
Ectropion
Deafness
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu breeds?

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye Examination
Respiratory Tests
Skin Evaluation
Blood And Urine Analysis
Hearing Tests
Diagnostic Imaging
DNA

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Sheltie Tzus compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Sheltie Tzu social needs comparison

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

Sheltie Tzu 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 Sheltie Tzu exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

Sheltie Tzu 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 Sheltie Tzu?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

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

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus?

Both West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu 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

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu walk each 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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Tzu, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus require more exercise?

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.

In general most Sheltie Tzus usually need at least 45 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 Sheltie Tzus?

4 / 5

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.

5 / 5

Sheltie Tzus have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu dogs?

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

Ideally, Sheltie Tzu 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 Sheltie Tzus?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu in 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.

For an average 20-25 pound (9 - 11 kg) Sheltie Tzu feed 1.5 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 Sheltie Tzu?

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

The average cost of a Sheltie Tzu is somewhere $1.70 - $2.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

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.

The average per month expenses of a Sheltie Tzu is between $34 - $67. This makes an average of $408 - $804 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 Sheltie Tzus

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Sheltie Tzu is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Sheltie Tzu?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

4 / 5

The Sheltie Tzu is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do West Highland White Terriers or Sheltie Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

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

4 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Sheltie Tzu?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Sheltie Tzu?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus 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 Sheltie Tzus compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Sheltie Tzus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.