Westie Staff -- West Highland White Terrier X American Staffordshire Terrier

		Westie Staff
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Scotland <> U.S.A. -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Westie Staff

The Westie Staff is a cross between a West Highland White Terrier and an American Staffordshire Terrier. Although these two breeds may not seem compatible because one is small and the other is large, they make excellent family pets that can hunt, herd and are as adorable and cuddly as a teddy bear. Both are intelligent breeds that learn quickly but need to be trained properly, as American Staffordshire Terriers can be aggressive if not properly trained. The Westie Staff is an active, independent dog that can take care of itself most of the time while watching your back.

History of the Westie Staff

The Westie Staff is a hybrid. So it's worth taking a look at the American Staffordshire Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier to get an idea of their history.

	A little of the West Highland White Terrier
	The West Highland White Terrier has an interesting history. Bred in Scotland from other Terriers in the 17th century, they were developed as hunting companions for fox hunters. Originally an ordinary-colored Terrier, they were bred to become white following a hunting accident in which a hunter's dog was shot after being mistaken for a fox. The West Highland White Terrier has also proved an adorable pet and has become popular as a companion dog. The English Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1906, and the American Kennel Club followed suit two years later. Today, the breed is the 41st most popular in the United States.

	Standard of the West Highland White Terrier


	A little of the American Staffordshire Terrier
	The American Staffordshire Terrier was originally bred for bull baiting and dog fighting in the 1800s. It is thought to be related to a Bulldog and a type of Terrier such as an English Terrier or Fox Terrier. They were originally called Pit Bulls or Yankee Terriers until 1972, when the name was changed to American Staffordshire Terrier to avoid confusion with their English cousin. When dogfighting and bullfighting became illegal, these dogs were used mainly for protection and as pets. Accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1936, they quickly became popular pets, ranking 81st out of 190 breeds in the USA.

	Standard of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Appearance of the Westie Staff

With the muscular build of the American Staffordshire Terrier and the athletic stature of the West Highland White Terrier, the Westie Staff is an impressive little dog. Although they weigh no more than 18 kilos and measure no more than 51 centimeters, they are intelligent dogs with adorable fluffy coats. They are most often white mixed with other colors such as chocolate, orange, beige, liver, blue-gray, black, lemon, brindle, merle and speckled. Their straight coat is generally thick and of medium length, with down that makes them look like a stuffed animal. The Westie Staff has a black nose on a square muzzle with large brown eyes that have an alert, intelligent expression.

Temperament of the Westie Staff

The American Staffordshire Terrier and West Highland White Terrier are bold, courageous dogs that can be as stubborn and belligerent as they are adorable and gentle. Although they're not usually the type to start a fight, they'll defend themselves and their family. If well socialized when young, they'll get on well with other dogs and older children, but they're not good with preschoolers. Males are known to be easier to live with than females, but they all need training and consistent rules. Training is not difficult, but may require a little time and patience.

Needs and activities of the Westie Staff

Plenty of exercise is essential to prevent weight gain, anxiety and boredom. As both Terriers are working and hunting breeds, they need at least one hour of vigorous activity a day. If you don't like hunting, your Westie Staff will love being allowed out in a fenced-in area to hunt local wildlife. They also like to dig in the dirt and chew on things, so make sure you have a place where they can practice these activities. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on them when they're outside, so they don't escape under the fence without warning. Other activities that Westie Staff will enjoy are swimming, hiking, playing ball, going for walks and agility training.

Maintenance of the Westie Staff

The Westie Staff's coat should be brushed thoroughly at least every other day. Most people use a stiff bristle brush or a pin brush, but you can also use a rubber curry glove or a slicker brush. Although they don't shed as much as most dogs, they should be brushed regularly to reduce seasonal shedding. You can bathe your dog if necessary, and clean his ears and teeth once a week to reduce the risk of infection or tooth decay. If necessary, you can trim your dog's nails with a nail clipper or take him to a groomer to do so.