Just like when you bring home a new baby, you will need to prepare before bringing your Westie puppy home. Westie puppies’ needs aren’t tremendous, but there are a few things you need to have in place to give your Westie a safe and happy transition into your life.

It is much easier and safer to prevent your West Highland Terrier puppy from entering and destroying things than to observe him every second. Remember that any item they chew on is also potentially swallowed – scraps of cloth, tassels, string, and of course, shoes.

Secure anything that can be lifted or moved. Electric cables are a special hazard. A solution called ‘bitter apple’ can be sprinkled over the shoelaces and anything else that cannot be relocated, to discourage chewing.

Dog trainers recommend that you never give your new puppy the freedom to roam around the house while you are away. A cage will keep the dog safe and can also be used for safe travel. Choose one that is large enough for the dog to stand up and roll over. Baby or pet gates will keep you confined to a room in the house that has a durable floor.

Since your westie won’t be old enough for reliable house training until around four months of age, this can be essential in keeping your carpets stain-free.

Your westie dog will need to eat, and it is best to ask the breeder what he has been eating and buy that brand. You can change your food later, but in the beginning you will have to make enough adjustments without a change in diet. Food and water bowls should be stainless steel, as most plastics will be teething.

To encourage him to chew on acceptable items, keep a selection of sturdy chew toys on hand. These should be made of Cressite or English rubber, although tennis balls and nylabones are also acceptable.

You’ll want your West Highland Terrier puppy to get used to a collar and leash as quickly as possible. Buy a lightweight collar and leash, suitable for puppies, and get an identification tag to accompany them. The grooming routine is also something that you should experience as soon as possible. Have a brush or comb handy.

Some owners recommend a bed of old towels, while others suggest faux shearling. Like everything you buy for your Westie puppy, what you choose for the bed should be washable and durable, as well as comfortable for your dog.

Last but not least, find a vet. A reputable West Highland White Terrier breeder will even allow you to take the dog to a vet before purchasing, to make sure the dog you bring home is healthy.

(Disclaimer: Any information on this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice provided by your own veterinarian. Do not use the information contained herein to diagnose the health of any animal. You should always consult and consult with your own veterinarian or veterinarian.)

Hope you found the article useful.

Good health and happiness