West Highland White Terrier.

West Highland White Terrier. West Highland White Terrier, breed of small dog, related to all the other Scottish terriers, the "scottie" (see Scottish Terrier), the Dandie Dinmont terrier, and the Cairn terrier. Formerly known (from places where they were bred) as the Roseneath or the Poltalloch terrier, the breed probably dates from the 17th century. Speedy and strong, they are courageous hunters, but also are widely popular as hardy, friendly household pets. The all-white coat is very easy to groom, another reason for the dog's popularity. The outer coat is straight and stiff, about 5 cm (about 2 in) long, but characteristically left longer about the face. The undercoat is full and soft. "Westies" stand 25 to 28 cm (10 to 11 in) high, on short, muscular legs. The chest is deep, the hindquarters powerful, the tail short and straight. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.