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Thinking of a Westie, or trying to understand the one you have? Here's what this bright, bold little terrier is really like to live with — the charm and the challenges.
The short answer
- Westies are confident, friendly and playful with a classic terrier streak.
- They're affectionate but independent — devoted, not clingy.
- Expect alertness, some barking and digging, and a stubborn moment or two.
- Early socialisation and reward‑based training bring out their best.
The Westie personality in five traits
Typical Westie traits (1–5)
Confidence5
Friendliness4
Energy4
Independence4
Trainability3
Quietness2
That profile sums it up: a bold, sociable, energetic dog with an independent mind and plenty to say. They greet the world with their tail up.
With family, kids & other pets
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With familyLoving and involved — they want to be where you are.
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With kidsGood with sensible children; supervise the little ones.
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With dogsUsually sociable, though the terrier confidence can show.
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With cats/small petsPrey drive is real — introduce carefully, never assume.
🐾 From one Westie owner to another —people expect a fluffy lapdog and get a terrier — and that's the joy of them. Lean into the personality: give them jobs, games and sniffy walks, and the “stubbornness” mostly melts away.
The terrier streak (and how to handle it)
Bred to work alone underground, Westies are wired to be independent and self‑directed. That means some barking at the doorbell, enthusiastic digging, and a habit of weighing up whether your command is really worth it. None of it is bad behaviour — it's breed character. Channel it with consistent, short, reward‑based training, early socialisation, and enough daily stimulation, and you get the best of the breed.
Is the Westie temperament right for you?
👍 Pros
- Huge personality in a small dog
- Affectionate without being needy
- Playful and fun at any age
- Alert little watchdog
👎 Cons
- Can be vocal
- Independent / stubborn streak
- Strong prey drive
- Needs mental engagement
Frequently asked questions
Are Westies affectionate?
Yes — they bond closely with their people and enjoy company, but they're independent rather than clingy lapdogs.
Do Westies bark a lot?
They can be vocal thanks to their alert terrier nature. Training and enough stimulation keep barking manageable.
Are Westies stubborn?
They have an independent streak from their working past. They learn well with short, fun, reward‑based training.
Are Westies good with children?
Generally yes with sensible kids, but always supervise interactions with young children and teach gentle handling.
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About this guide. From the Westie owners at westiebakse.com — written from years of living with the breed's big little personality.
