• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

West Highland Husky Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about West Highland Husky so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
Popularity Rank686
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the West Highland Husky With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
West Highland Husky dog profile picture
OriginScotland flagScotland Russia flagRussia
Other Names
What other names does the West Highland Husky have?
Westsky
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Siberian Husky and West Highland White Terrier mix

West Highland Husky Size and Weight

Size
Is a West Highland Husky small, medium or large dog?

How big do West Highland Husky get?

What is the average size of a West Highland Husky?

SmallMedium
Weight
How much does the West Highland Husky weigh? How much should a West Highland Husky weight? What is the normal weight of a West Highland Husky? How much does a full-grown West Highland Husky weight?
Male: 30-45 pounds (14-20 kg), Female: 27-42 pounds (12-19 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a West Highland Husky?
Male: 37.5 pounds (17 kg), Female: 34.5 pounds (15.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the West Highland Husky? West Highland Husky height:
Male: 16-19 inches (41-47 cm), Female : 14-17 inches (38-44 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a West Highland Husky?
Male: 17.5 inches (44 cm), Female : 15.5 inches (41 cm)

West Highland Husky Price and Availability

Price
How much does the West Highland Husky puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a West Highland Husky in the United States? How much money is a West Highland Husky?

Where to buy a West Highland Husky with a good pedigree?

$700-$1200
If you choose to purchase the West Highland Husky, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a West Highland Husky for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the West Highland Husky gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a West Highland Husky? How many West Highland Husky are there in the world?
Average: The West Highland Husky is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

West Highland Husky Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the West Highland Husky? Is the West Highland Husky breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The West Highland Husky ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are West Highland Husky dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a West Highland Husky?
West Highland Husky dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is West Highland Husky good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
West Highland Husky dogs are not the best watchdogs. They aren't very territorial and protective about their property, so they probably won't alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do West Highland Husky dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
West Highland Husky dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

West Highland Husky Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the West Highland Husky have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
IndependentAlertCourageousIntelligentFriendlyOutgoingAffectionateGentle
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? West Highland Husky sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. West Highland Husky dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a West Highland Husky a good family dog?
High: West Highland Husky dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Westsky need? West Highland Husky social needs:
West Highland Husky dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the West Highland Husky to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does West Highland Husky roam?
The wanderlust potential of the West Highland Husky is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does West Highland Husky have high prey drive?
West Highland Husky dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that West Highland Husky dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

West Highland Husky Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The West Highland Husky is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do West Highland Husky dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Westsky bark?
Average to High: The West Highland Husky is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is West Highland Husky good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a West Highland Husky in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep West Highland Husky indoors.

West Highland Husky Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
West Highland Husky dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a West Highland Husky be left alone? How long can you leave a West Highland Husky alone?
West Highland Husky dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

West Highland Husky Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the West Highland Husky has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a West Highland Husky? How much bite force does a West Highland Husky have? How strong is a West Highland Husky bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

West Highland Husky bite force: Weak. The West Highland Husky bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force West Highland Husky measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a West Highland Husky may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of West Highland Husky being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

West Highland Husky bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a West Highland Husky puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a West Highland Husky can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do West Highland Husky bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Westsky? What are the odds of getting bitten by a West Highland Husky? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The West Highland Husky has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the West Highland Husky do?
West Highland Husky dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but West Highland Husky dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

West Highland Husky Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do West Highland Husky dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
West Highland Huskys are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the West Highland Husky breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the West Highland Husky breed? Most common health risks of West Highland Husky:
CataractsLegg-perthes DiseasePatellar LuxationProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Corneal DystrophyCraniomandibular OsteopathyGloboid Cell LeukodystrophyWhite Dog Shaker SyndromeInflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)Atopic DermatitisHyperplastic DermatosisPulmonary Fibrosis
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the West Highland Husky breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the West Highland Husky see the vet?
Rare
The West Highland Husky should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do West Highland Husky dogs live? How old can a West Highland Husky be? What is the age limit of the West Highland Husky? How many years can the oldest West Highland Husky live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a West Highland Husky?

How long is the lifespan of a West Highland Husky?

12-14 years
The average lifespan of West Highland Husky: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers cold weather
The West Highland Husky can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.

West Highland Husky Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the West Highland Husky have? What is the activity level of the West Highland Husky?
West Highland Husky dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a West Highland Husky need? How much exercise do West Highland Husky dogs require per day?

Do West Highland Husky dogs need a lot of exercises?

West Highland Husky dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the West Highland Husky breed need?
West Highland Husky dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

West Highland Husky Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a West Highland Husky need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a West Highland Husky breed eat per day? What is good dog food for West Highland Husky? How much food should I feed my West Highland Husky?
Recommended daily amount: 2.5 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? West Highland Husky risk for obesity:
Average: The West Highland Husky has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the West Highland Husky weight regularly.

West Highland Husky Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the West Highland Husky have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
FluffyDense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper West Highland Husky coats?
BlackGray Red White SableAgouti
Grooming
How to groom the West Highland Husky and how often? How often should I take my West Highland Husky to the groomer?
Advanced: The West Highland Husky requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your West Highland Husky a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your West Highland Husky, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do West Highland Husky dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Westsky? Do West Highland Husky dogs shed a lot?
West Highland Husky dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the West Highland Husky need a bath? How often should you give a West Highland Husky a bath? Can I bathe my West Highland Husky every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the West Highland Husky breed hypoallergenic?
No
West Highland Husky dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The West Highland Husky has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the West Highland Husky drool?
The West Highland Husky is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the West Highland Husky could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the West Highland Husky.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

West Highland Husky Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do West Highland Husky dogs get along with other pets? Are West Highland Husky dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
West Highland Husky dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? West Highland Husky temperament with other people:
West Highland Husky dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are West Highland Husky dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? West Highland Husky temperament with children:
West Highland Husky dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do West Highland Husky dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the West Highland Husky breed live with a cat?
West Highland Husky dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is West Highland Husky good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do West Highland Husky dogs get along with other dogs?
West Highland Husky dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the West Highland Husky can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is West Highland Husky breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is West Highland Husky breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
West Highland Husky dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are West Highland Husky dogs good office canines? Do West Highland Husky dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
West Highland Husky is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do West Highland Husky dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Westsky temperament with senior people? Are West Highland Husky dogs good for elderly owners?
West Highland Huskys are usually recommended for elderly people.

West Highland Husky As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

West Highland Husky is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a West Highland Husky be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

West Highland Husky is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

West Highland Husky is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The West Highland Husky is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a boat dog?

Not really

West Highland Husky breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can West Highland Husky be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

West Highland Husky is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where West Highland Husky dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs. A combat dog is a specially trained dog that is used in warfare to help protect military personnel and assets. Combat dogs are often deployed in areas where there is potential for contact with the enemy, such as during raids or search operations. Combat dogs are typically assigned to either infantry or special operations units. They are used for a variety of tasks including area security, sentry duty, trackers, and explosive detection. In addition to their combat roles, combat dogs also play an important role in troop morale by providing companionship and emotional support.

West Highland Husky Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a West Highland Husky pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the West Highland Husky breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female West Highland Husky: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the West Highland Husky have in a litter? How many puppies can the West Highland Husky breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a West Highland Husky have? How many puppies can a West Highland Husky give birth to?
4-8 puppies

West Highland Husky Recognition

AKC Group
Is West Highland Husky recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is West Highland Husky recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the West Highland Husky breed?
Dog Registry of America Inc.

West Highland Husky Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Issues: West Highland Huskys are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Drooling Tendency: The West Highland Husky is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The West Highland Husky has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Adaptability: West Highland Husky dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: West Highland Husky dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: West Highland Husky dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: West Highland Huskys are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: West Highland Husky dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: West Highland Husky dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming: Advanced: The West Highland Husky requires a lot of grooming.
  • Watchdog Ability: West Highland Husky dogs are not the best watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the West Highland Husky is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: West Highland Husky dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: West Highland Husky dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: West Highland Husky is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The West Highland Husky Breed

West Highland Husky Comments, Reviews and Questions